Kufuor Breaks Silence: “I’ve Been Sidelined by NPP” — Former President Speaks on Party Neglect and Betrayal
Former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor expresses deep frustration over being sidelined by the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He recounts his political sacrifices and calls for respect and inclusion.
Former President Kufuor Expresses Pain Over Party Neglect
Former President of Ghana and a key founding figure of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Agyekum Kufuor, has publicly voiced his frustration over being neglected and sidelined by the very political party he helped build.
Speaking during a recent courtesy call by NPP flagbearer aspirant Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the respected statesman expressed his pain and disappointment, stating that the current NPP leadership has consistently failed to consult or even inform him about crucial party matters.
“If this party has elders, then I am certainly one,” he emphasized. “Have I deteriorated to the point where, after being fed, I claim I haven’t eaten? No. My mind and memory are intact.”
Despite his advanced age, the former president insisted that he is still mentally sound and capable of contributing meaningfully to the party’s direction and the future of Ghanaian politics.
A Lifetime of Sacrifice for the NPP and Ghana
Kufuor played a central role in Ghana’s democratic evolution, especially in shaping the fortunes of the Danquah-Busia-Dombo political tradition. He became a Member of Parliament in 1969 at just 30 years old, served as Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs under Dr. K.A. Busia, and endured 13 months of imprisonment after the military coup that ousted the Busia government.
“How many among us today have paid such a price?” he asked, referencing the sacrifices made during Ghana’s political transformation.
His journey in politics did not end with hardship. Kufuor went on to become the President of Ghana from 2001 to 2009, leading the NPP to its first national victory in 2000. Under his leadership, Ghana experienced strong economic growth, improved international relations, and democratic stability.
“I’ve Been Watching Quietly”
While Kufuor has largely maintained a low profile in recent years, his remarks suggest a buildup of disappointment. According to him, he has been observing recent events from a distance—but not without concern.
“I have remained silent, but make no mistake, I have been watching closely,” he said. “If you trace Ghana’s political history, you’ll see it began with the UGCC. From 1947 to 1969, our tradition never tasted power. We stayed on the sidelines.”
His statement hints at parallels between Ghana’s early struggles for political recognition and his current situation of being ignored by the very party he helped elevate to power.
Tensions Rise Within the NPP
The former president’s statement comes at a critical time for the NPP, which is currently facing internal tensions following its defeat in the 2024 general election. Kufuor’s comments could potentially fuel ongoing discussions about leadership reform and party unity.
READ ALSO: Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot See The Number Of Ex Officials Targeted
Sources close to the matter report that Kufuor has formally petitioned the party, prompting the NPP to call for an emergency National Council meeting scheduled for Monday, July 14th. The petition reportedly centers on his exclusion from key party decisions and the lack of communication from the current leadership.
A Call for Inclusion, Respect, and Unity
Kufuor’s emotional remarks are more than just a personal lament—they are a wake-up call to the NPP leadership to reassess how it treats its elders and founding members. In African and Ghanaian culture, elders are revered for their wisdom, and sidelining someone of Kufuor’s stature is not only politically unwise but culturally insensitive.
His message is clear: respect the legacy, uphold the tradition, and unite the party for the sake of its future.
A Voice That Cannot Be Ignored
As the New Patriotic Party grapples with a shifting political landscape, the voice of one of its greatest leaders cannot—and should not—be ignored. John Agyekum Kufuor’s call for respect, inclusion, and communication is a reminder that every strong foundation must honor those who laid the first stone.
