Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has poured out his anguish over what he calls neglect and exclusion by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the very party he led to a historic two-term victory. In a poignant exchange with Abetifi MP and flagbearer hopeful Bryan Acheampong, Kufuor revealed his growing sense of marginalization, declaring, “If this party still has elders… I am one.”
The ex-president, who governed Ghana from 2001 to 2009, lamented the current leadership’s failure to engage him, despite his pivotal role and institutional memory.
“Have I deteriorated to the point where, after being fed, I’d claim I haven’t eaten? No—I haven’t reached that stage yet. My mind and memory are intact,” he asserted firmly.
Reflecting on the NPP’s rise from the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) through decades of struggle to its 2000 triumph, Kufuor added, “I’ve been quiet, but make no mistake, I’ve been watching. Closely. The least the party can do… is keep me informed. Let me hear what’s happening.”
Visibly hurt, Kufuor expressed disbelief at his sidelining. “And now… I’m being sidelined? Ignored? I don’t understand it. I really don’t,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Credited with strengthening democratic institutions and driving economic reforms, the statesman’s plea underscores a painful rift within the party he once led to glory.
