Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the former Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, has vehemently defended President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo against internal criticism from within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) following the party’s electoral setbacks. In a pointed statement, she expressed deep disappointment over what she perceives as unwarranted attacks and blame directed at the former President by some party members. Owusu-Ekuful argued that these same individuals would have readily showered Akufo-Addo with praise and attributed victory to his leadership had the NPP succeeded in the elections. This, she suggests, reveals a disturbing trend of selective appreciation and a lack of consistent support within the party ranks. She emphasized the inconsistency of celebrating leaders only in times of triumph while readily condemning them during periods of adversity, highlighting the importance of loyalty and acknowledgment of long-term contributions irrespective of immediate outcomes.
Owusu-Ekuful underscored Akufo-Addo’s unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the NPP over many years. She emphasized his pivotal role in holding the party together during eight years in opposition and subsequently guiding it through its time in government. She refuted allegations suggesting that Akufo-Addo deliberately undermined the campaign of his Vice President and party flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, characterizing such claims as illogical and unjust. The former Minister highlighted Akufo-Addo’s substantial financial support to the party, noting that for eight years, he consistently funded party operations at all levels, including providing monthly allowances to constituencies, regions, and national offices, as well as supplementing the incomes of Members of Parliament. This, she argued, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the party’s success and welfare, making the criticisms leveled against him all the more unfair and unfounded.
The former Minister further emphasized Akufo-Addo’s willingness to accept responsibility for the party’s electoral performance. She conveyed his sentiment that despite a lifetime dedicated to democracy, the rule of law, and strengthening the NPP’s brand, he remains unfazed by the criticism and accepts the blame directed towards him. Owusu-Ekuful, however, expressed her deep concern regarding what she perceives as a growing sense of ingratitude within the party, cautioning against the erosion of loyalty and recognition of dedicated service. She stressed the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of long-serving members who have dedicated their time and resources to the party’s growth and development.
Furthermore, Owusu-Ekuful staunchly defended President Akufo-Addo’s legacy, highlighting a range of achievements during his tenure. She cited the maintenance of a stable electricity supply, expansion of access to education, job creation initiatives, and extensive road infrastructure development as significant accomplishments that benefited the nation. The former Minister questioned whether the party truly deserved the unwavering loyalty of its dedicated members if such substantial contributions could be so readily dismissed or undervalued. She posed a poignant question: “If we don’t appreciate the efforts of people like Akufo-Addo, is the NPP worth dying for?” This rhetorical question underscores her concern about the potential demoralizing effect of internal criticism and lack of appreciation on dedicated party members.
Owusu-Ekuful’s impassioned defense of Akufo-Addo serves as a broader commentary on the internal dynamics of the NPP and the potential dangers of factionalism and ingratitude. Her statement highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating the long-term contributions of dedicated members, even in the face of electoral setbacks. She warns against the tendency to focus solely on immediate outcomes while disregarding the cumulative efforts and sacrifices of individuals who have dedicated themselves to the party’s growth and success. This, she suggests, can erode party unity and demoralize committed members, ultimately jeopardizing the party’s long-term strength and stability.
In conclusion, Owusu-Ekuful’s statement is a compelling appeal for unity and appreciation within the NPP. It calls for a more balanced assessment of Akufo-Addo’s leadership, acknowledging his long-standing contributions and financial support to the party while recognizing the complexities of electoral politics. Her defense raises important questions about the nature of political loyalty, the importance of recognizing past achievements, and the potential dangers of internal divisions fueled by blame and ingratitude. Ultimately, her message emphasizes the need for introspection and greater appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of individuals who have contributed significantly to the party’s journey.
