Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a seasoned politician and former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has formally announced his candidacy for the party’s flagbearer position in the upcoming 2028 general elections. This marks his third attempt to secure the coveted role and lead the NPP into a national election. Agyepong’s declaration, made during a press conference in Accra on July 29, 2025, centers on his vision of unifying the party, restoring public trust, and upholding the core values upon which the NPP was founded. He presented himself as the ideal candidate to heal internal divisions and steer the party towards a path of genuine renewal.
A central theme of Agyepong’s message is the rejection of money politics and the undue influence of financial resources in internal party elections. He condemned the growing trend of vote-buying, urging delegates to prioritize principles over inducements and to reclaim the party’s ownership from the “entitled few.” He emphasized that the NPP belongs to the grassroots and called for a return to the party’s foundational values of integrity and service. His campaign focuses on a “clean and values-based” approach, highlighting his commitment to ethical leadership and transparent governance. His vision for the NPP rests on three pillars: “clean hands, a clear mind, and a compassionate heart.”
Agyepong’s call for unity extends beyond the current members of the NPP. He specifically addressed Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a former Trade Minister who left the party in 2024, urging him to return to the fold. This gesture underscores Agyepong’s commitment to inclusivity and his belief in the strength of a united party. He reminded all NPP members that the party’s foundation rests on sacrifice, not privilege, subtly contrasting his vision with the perceived influence of elitism within the party.
Agyepong’s decision to contest the flagbearership comes at a crucial juncture for the NPP. The party is navigating a period of introspection and rebuilding following recent electoral outcomes. The 2028 election presents a significant opportunity for the NPP to reclaim its position and Agyepong’s candidacy adds another dimension to the evolving political landscape. His emphasis on unity, integrity, and grassroots engagement resonates with a segment of the party yearning for a return to its core principles.
The 2028 flagbearer race is anticipated to be highly competitive, with several prominent figures potentially vying for the nomination. Agyepong enters the race with a clear message of reform and renewal, distinguishing himself from other contenders who may represent the status quo. His focus on ethical leadership and his appeal to the grassroots could resonate with party members disillusioned by the influence of money and factionalism within the NPP. His success will depend on his ability to mobilize support among delegates and convince them that he represents the best path forward for the party.
Agyepong’s candidacy represents a crucial test for the NPP. His challenge to the established norms and his emphasis on ethical leadership present a choice for the party: continue down a path perceived by some as increasingly influenced by money and special interests, or embrace a return to the founding principles of unity, integrity, and service. The outcome of the flagbearer race will significantly shape the future direction of the NPP and its prospects in the 2028 general elections. His campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of internal party democracy and the ongoing struggle to balance ambition with the ideals upon which political parties are built.
