Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has expressed dismay over what he describes as neglect by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the political party he once led to back-to-back electoral victories.
In a candid conversation with Abetifi MP and NPP presidential hopeful Bryan Acheampong, Mr Kufuor revealed he feels increasingly excluded from party affairs, despite his status as
a founding figure and former head of state.
“If this party still has elders… I am one,” he said. “The least the party can do is keep me informed. Let me hear what’s happening.”
Mr Kufuor, 86, served as president from 2001 to 2009 and is widely credited with strengthening Ghana’s democracy and steering significant economic reforms. His leadership marked a high point for the NPP, which won the 2000 and 2004 general elections under his guidance.
He said he remains mentally alert and capable of contributing to the party’s direction but lamented a lack of consultation or communication from current party leaders.
“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,” he said. “My mind and memory are intact.”
The former president recalled the NPP’s origins, tracing it from the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) through years of political hardship to its eventual electoral breakthrough at the start of the new millennium.
“I’ve been quiet, but make no mistake, I’ve been watching. Closely,” he added.
Mr Kufuor’s remarks come amid growing internal discussions within the NPP over the role of veteran figures in shaping the party’s future. His comments are likely to prompt calls for deeper introspection within the party and renewed efforts to engage with its senior statesmen.
