Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a prominent businessman and former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, has formally declared his intention to contest the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries. This announcement marks his official entry into the race to lead the party into the 2028 general elections, following the NPP’s official opening of nominations for the presidential contest. Agyapong’s declaration, released on Monday, July 29th, explicitly stated his commitment to vying for the party’s nomination: “Now that nominations have been opened, I will be contesting for the New Patriotic Party’s 2028 Presidential Primaries.”
Agyapong’s decision to contest the primaries is fueled by what he describes as overwhelming support from various segments of the population, including grassroots supporters, professionals, Members of Parliament, and youth groups across the country. This groundswell of encouragement, he asserts, extends to pledges of financial backing for his nomination bid. The breadth and depth of this support base suggest a significant level of enthusiasm for his candidacy, potentially positioning him as a formidable contender in the upcoming primary elections.
Agyapong frames his bid for the presidency not merely as a personal ambition, but as a collective national movement. He promises a leadership style that prioritizes fairness, unity, and principled governance. His vision for Ghana transcends partisan divisions, aiming to create a nation where every citizen has an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. This message of inclusivity and equal opportunity resonates with a broad spectrum of the Ghanaian populace, particularly those seeking a more equitable and just society.
Agyapong’s campaign message centers on a commitment to unite the country and to lead with integrity and purpose. He emphasizes listening to the concerns of the people and responding with action, promising to “listen to you and to lead with integrity and purpose.” This emphasis on listening and responsiveness suggests a leadership approach that values citizen engagement and aims to bridge the gap between government and the governed. His declared commitment to integrity and purpose further underscores his intention to prioritize ethical leadership and effective governance.
Agyapong’s re-entry into the presidential race, having previously contested in the 2020 NPP primaries, injects a significant dose of dynamism into the contest. His populist message, combined with an uncompromising persona, is anticipated to heavily influence the narrative leading up to the 2028 polls. Known for his outspoken nature and critical stance on corruption, Agyapong’s campaign is likely to focus on these themes, potentially resonating with voters concerned about accountability and transparency in government.
The NPP primary race is expected to be highly competitive, with Agyapong’s entry adding a significant dimension to the contest. His track record as a businessman, coupled with his experience as a Member of Parliament, provides him with a platform to address economic development and governance issues. His populist appeal and reputation as a straight-talker could further enhance his standing among voters seeking a leader who challenges the status quo. However, the primary race will also depend on how his sometimes controversial statements and actions are perceived by the electorate and how he navigates the complex political landscape within the NPP itself. The outcome of the primaries remains uncertain, but Agyapong’s participation promises a dynamic and closely watched contest.
