Kennedy Agyapong, former Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially bowed out of the party’s ongoing “Thank You” tour. He cited growing security threats to his supporters as the primary reason, following a violent altercation at a recent event in Kumasi.
The incident, which occurred at the Pentecost Church in Bantama during the tour led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, escalated when armed individuals disrupted the gathering. A student from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), affiliated with Unity Hall and working with Agyapong’s team, was stabbed amid the chaos. The student is currently receiving critical care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, April 30, Agyapong expressed his deep concerns about the safety of his team and supporters. “For the sake of unity, I joined Dr. Bawumia on this ‘Thank You’ tour. But yesterday’s events have made it abundantly clear that my presence is not welcomed by certain factions. I cannot risk the lives of my people under such circumstances,” he stated.
Agyapong confirmed that he has formally informed both Dr. Bawumia and the NPP General Secretary about his decision to withdraw from the tour. He emphasized that the safety of his team remains his top priority. “My decision to step back is to protect my people. However, this is not the end. We will regroup, and when the time is right, we will move forward with our plans to contribute to the party and solidify my ambitions,” he added.
In a bold declaration of his political future, Agyapong announced his intention to contest for the NPP flagbearer position in the upcoming primaries. “To every party member and supporter, let it be known that I am going to campaign and contest for the flagbearer position. No amount of intimidation or manipulation can stop me,” he asserted.
Agyapong also took the opportunity to address growing intra-party tensions, cautioning against divisive tactics. He accused some factions within Dr. Bawumia’s camp of twisting his statements to fuel discord. “Such one-sided politics is damaging to the unity of the NPP. I urge all members to rise above these petty manipulations and focus on strengthening the party,” he admonished.
Kennedy Agyapong’s withdrawal from the tour and his firm stance on contesting for the party’s leadership has sent ripples across the political landscape, with many waiting to see how this bold move will shape the future of the NPP.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
