A prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwesi Ahwoi has extended apologies to the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and his running mate, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, regarding his recent remarks captured in a viral video.
The incident unfolded during a public gathering in Accra organized in honor of Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, where Mr. Ahwoi, a prominent figure within the opposition party, suggested that the esteemed professor should brace herself for any circumstance that could potentially lead to her ascension to the presidency.
However, Mr. Ahwoi’s comments stirred a wave of criticism from segments of the NDC, with some interpreting his words as a lack of confidence in Mahama’s ability to complete a hypothetical four-year term should he be elected.
On Sunday, March 24, Kwesi Ahwoi clarified in a statement that he had no intention of wishing harm upon the former President.
“I sincerely regret the wrong impression that my comment has created. Indeed, it was not my intention, and never will it be my intention to pray that H.E. John Mahama does not serve his full four-year term when he wins the 2024 general elections.
“I concede that I misspoke on the occasion. I accept the criticisms in good faith, even though some of the criticisms arise out of a deliberate misrepresentation of my statement.
“I hereby render an unreserved and unqualified apology to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the leadership and rank and file of the great NDC.”
Read below the full statement:
Kwesi Ahwoi writes:
I have taken notice of the unfortunate controversy that has arisen as a result of a comment I made at a reception organized last Thursday by the Churchstreet group of NDC faithful for Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate to our esteemed flagbearer, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
I sincerely regret the wrong impression that my comment has created. Indeed, it was not my intention, and never will it be my intention to pray that H.E. John Mahama does not serve his full four-year term when he wins the 2024 general elections.
I concede that I misspoke on the occasion. I accept the criticisms in good faith, even though some of the criticisms arise out of a deliberate misrepresentation of my statement.
Indeed, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang in response to my toast, pointed out the erroneous impression created by my statement and was categorical in asserting that she was certain that H.E. John Mahama will win the 2024 general elections and serve his full four-year term.
It is unfortunate that my statement appears to have taken the shine off what was otherwise a cheerful and light-hearted occasion.
I hereby render an unreserved and unqualified apology to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the leadership and rank and file of the great NDC.
Comrades and friends, let us put this unfortunate incident behind us and unite behind our flag-bearer, the visionary Nation Builder, to rescue our beloved country in the December 2024 elections.
SIGNED.
Kwesi Ahwoi
