Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to set aside tribal and religious sentiments as the party prepares to elect its flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.
Speaking at the launch of the party’s think tank, the Patriotic Institute, on Wednesday, 25 June, Mr. Kufuor urged the NPP to remain focused on its core democratic values and prioritize the selection of a leader who can provide practical solutions to the country’s challenges.
His remarks come at a time when internal divisions and personal attacks among potential aspirants are emerging, following the announcement that the party’s flagbearer elections will take place on January 31, 2026.
“We must remember we are a democratic party that stands for the common good,” Mr. Kufuor said. “Leadership is not about tribe, religion, or gender; it’s about the individual who can inspire confidence and lead the nation forward.”
Mr. Kufuor warned that indulging in identity politics only plays into the hands of the party’s critics.
“Our opponents often accuse us of being a tribal party, and now, we are even risking adding religion to that perception. If these labels start to come from our members, then we are the ones making it worse,” he cautioned.
He urged the party to be honest with itself and choose a flagbearer who can bridge divides and work towards national progress.
“Our focus must be on selecting someone who can solve problems that affect all Ghanaians and deliver development that benefits everyone,” he added.
