Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has expressed deep disappointment over what he describes as neglect and exclusion by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the very political tradition he led to a historic two-term victory.
In a reflective conversation with Abetifi MP and NPP flagbearer hopeful Bryan Acheampong, the statesman voiced concern about the current state of internal party engagement.
“If this party still has elders… I am one,” he said, lamenting that despite his legacy and institutional memory, he is no longer kept informed on key matters.
Kufuor, who governed Ghana from 2001 to 2009 and is widely credited with strengthening democracy and championing economic reforms, said he feels sidelined and disconnected from the party’s decision-making processes.
“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 stressed. Recalling the NPP’s evolution from the UGCC days to its defining 2000 electoral victory, Kufuor emphasized his continued awareness: “I’ve been quiet, but make no mistake, I’ve been watching. Closely.”
His candid reflections are likely to stir introspection and debate within the NPP about how it treats its founding leaders and elder statesmen. “And now… I’m being sidelined? Ignored? I don’t understand it. I really don’t,” he said with evident emotional weight.
Kufuor’s remarks come at a time of internal jostling within the party ahead of the next general elections, raising questions about how much respect and relevance is accorded to those who once shaped its fortunes.
