Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has expressed frustration over what he sees as growing exclusion from the affairs of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), warning that his age must not be used as a reason to sideline him.
In a candid conversation with Abetifi MP and NPP flagbearer aspirant, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the respected statesman lamented the party’s apparent disregard for its senior figures, despite their sacrifices and foundational contributions.
“Have I declined to the point where I can be dismissed or overlooked?” he asked. “My faculties are intact. I’m no relic. I deserve at least to be consulted.”
Kufuor recounted his political journey, which began in 1969 when he entered Parliament at age 30, later serving as Deputy Minister under Prime Minister K.A. Busia.
He recalled his 15-month imprisonment at Ussher Fort following the 1972 military coup that toppled the Progress Party government, a price he believes few current leaders have paid.
“I was in Ussher Fort prison for one year, three months. How many of today’s leaders can say they’ve paid such a price?” he asked, highlighting his long-standing dedication to Ghana and the party.
Kufuor led the NPP to its historic victory in 2000, bringing the party to power for the first time.
Yet two decades later, the man many view as the architect of the party’s modern success says he now feels sidelined.
“If there are elders in this party, I am surely one,” he stated firmly, arguing that wisdom, experience, and sacrifice should not be disregarded simply because of age.
Sources close to the former President confirm that he has formally petitioned the party’s leadership over concerns about transparency, internal decision-making, and how transitions are being handled within the NPP.
The petition has prompted an emergency National Council meeting scheduled for Monday, July 14, 2025.
Although the specific catalyst for Kufuor’s concerns remains unclear, sources indicate he may not attend the upcoming National Delegates Conference on July 19, an event already drawing criticism from parts of the party.