Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has issued a strong warning to members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) not to allow internal competition for leadership to destroy the party’s unity, ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new NPP constituency office in Bantama on Friday, Kufuor emphasised that while it is normal for “brothers to compete,” the aftermath must not breed division.
“Brothers will compete for positions. The younger one might even win. But it is an abomination if the loser tries to eliminate the winner,” the former president stated.
He further stressed the need for maturity and restraint among party members and flagbearer aspirants, warning that disunity could cost the party dearly.
“Have you seen that symbol – one crocodile, two heads, one stomach? If you belong to a party, what are the benefits if we destroy each other?” John Kufuor asked.
John Kufuor also expressed dismay over the growing trend of mudslinging and factionalism within the party, largely fuelled by the supporters of presidential aspirants.
“Those running for office are sometimes moderate themselves. But their followers engage in attacks. Sometimes it is done with their approval, other times it is not”, he observed.
He called on party members to watch their language and maintain decorum, warning that internal strife only empowers opponents.
“Just because we don’t always agree among ourselves doesn’t mean we should let outsiders take our glory,” he said.
Nana Addo Hints at Critique of Mahama Administration
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who also addressed the gathering, refrained from direct criticism of the current Mahama administration, but hinted that Ghanaians are aware of what is happening and he will speak at the appropriate time.
“You are all living witnesses of what is happening. You are all aware. I will make a statement about it at the right time,” he noted.
Nana Akufo-Addo urged the party to reflect on the NPP’s governance legacy and not lose sight of its accomplishments, during both his and Kufuor’s tenures in office.
“Do not forget what former President Kufuor and I did when we were in power. Our achievements are numerous and they will be the message we take into the 2028 elections,” he said.
The former president expressed optimism that the NPP would emerge united after electing its flagbearer in January 2026, setting the stage for a strong campaign.
“If we are able to elect our flagbearer and unite, then we hit the ground running. I know God will be on our side.”
Asenso-Boakye Decries Politics of Insults
Francis Asenso-Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama and host of the commissioning ceremony, also raised concerns about the conduct of some campaigners, warning that “politics of insults” will only weaken the NPP’s electoral chances.
“As the campaign heats up, I am concerned about the politics of insults. This will affect us because it undermines our chances, ahead of the general election,” he said.
He urged party members and aspirants to focus on the NPP’s track record and highlight the abysmal performance of the Mahama-led administration, instead of attacking each other.
Focus Turns to 2026 Primaries and 2028 Elections
The newly inaugurated Bantama party office stands as a symbol of growth and renewed energy within the NPP, but the overarching message from the event was clear – discipline, unity and responsible leadership are critical if the party is to reclaim power in 2028.
As the 2026 flagbearer contest approaches, both former presidents and current MPs are urging aspirants and their supporters to compete in a manner that will ultimately unite rather than divide the party.
