Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has broken his silence in what many are describing as a sobering critique of the party he once led to historic triumphs.
In a rare public reflection, the elder statesman expressed disappointment over what he perceives as his marginalisation within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“I’ve held my peace, but I’ve been observing closely,” Kufuor said during a recent interaction with Abetifi MP and NPP flagbearer aspirant, Dr Bryan Acheampong.
Recalling his political journey from a 30-year-old parliamentarian in 1969 to Deputy Minister under Prime Minister Kofi Abrefa Busia, the former President painted a vivid portrait of personal sacrifice and dedication to Ghana’s democratic tradition.
He reminded Ghanaians of his 13-month imprisonment following the 1972 coup that toppled the Progress Party administration.
“Thirteen months in jail. How many of today’s leaders can say they’ve paid such a price?” he asked pointedly.
Kufuor’s rise to national prominence culminated in the year 2000 when he led the NPP to victory, becoming President and serving two terms that many credit with reshaping Ghana’s governance landscape.
But that legacy, he suggested, now feels under threat. “Have I declined to the point where I can be dismissed, overlooked? My faculties are intact. I’m no relic. I deserve at least to be consulted,” he stated, underscoring his ongoing relevance and capacity for leadership engagement.
What began as a subtle concern quickly evolved into a full-blown appeal for respect, transparency, and inclusion in party affairs.
“If there are elders in this party, I am surely one,” Kufuor stressed, reminding the NPP of the roles played by its founding members and leaders who paved the way.
Sources close to the former President have told Myjoyonline that he has formally petitioned the party leadership, raising concerns about internal transitions and decision-making processes. Unconfirmed reports say the petition has triggered an urgent National Council meeting scheduled for Monday, 14th July.
Political observers believe the growing tension may force the NPP into a critical moment of introspection, one that confronts not only generational leadership dynamics but the very soul of the party.
For many, Kufuor’s intervention is not just a personal plea but a call for the NPP to return to the values of inclusion, respect for experience, and unity that once defined its rise to power.
While it is unclear what specifically triggered the former President’s comments, information reaching Myjoyonline indicates that the former President may not be available for the 19th July National Delegates Conference, an event that has been condemned by some sections of the party.
It remains to be seen whether Mr Kufuor’s concerns will force the leadership to make a U-turn on the scheduled conference or will go ahead with it.
The party’s decision to go for an early congress in January 2026 to elect a new flagbearer for the 2028 election has divided opinions. While some believe it is necessary to limit tensions, others are of the view that the party must focus on healing after a heavy defeat in 2024.
source: My Joy Online
