Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has subtly jabbed former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen over his recent attack following an open endorsement of the candidature of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
At a gathering at Ofori Panin Fie, he took the opportunity to address the criticisms that have followed his endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential campaign.
As a respected statesman, Kufuor has faced backlash from some quarters who believe that, at his age and with his experience, he should step aside and allow younger leaders to take the reins. However, Kufuor did not shy away from making his position clear.
“I’ve heard the criticisms, and I understand where some are coming from,” Kufuor remarked, his voice steady but firm. “
Some people think that because of my age and status as a former president, I should stay out of the political fray. But I believe that as someone who helped build the foundation of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), I have every right to express my views on the direction the party and the country should take.”
Kufuor, who has long been a respected figure in Ghanaian politics, made it clear that his decision to publicly support Dr. Bawumia was not out of a desire for power but out of his belief in Bawumia’s leadership potential.
“It’s not about me. It’s about the future of this country. Dr. Bawumia is a capable man, and I’ve seen his potential from the very beginning,” Kufuor shared.
“I encouraged him to join politics because I saw the qualities that could serve Ghana well. His intellect, his dedication, and his understanding of the issues facing our country made him the ideal candidate.”
Reflecting on the early days of Bawumia’s political journey, Kufuor noted that he had recognized something special in the then-unknown economist.
“When I first met Bawumia, I could tell that he had a unique vision for Ghana,” Kufuor continued. “He was someone who could bring fresh ideas to the table, someone who could help bridge the gap between the old and the new generation of leaders. That’s why I supported him then, and that’s why I support him now.”
Despite the controversy surrounding his endorsement, Kufuor emphasized that his support for Bawumia is based on what he believes is best for Ghana, rather than personal ambition. “It’s not about personal interest,” Kufuor said.
“It’s about ensuring that Ghana continues to move forward in the right direction. Dr. Bawumia embodies the qualities that will take us there.”
The former president’s comments also touched on the broader political landscape, where he acknowledged the generational shift happening within the NPP.
“Of course, we need new blood in politics,” Kufuor said. “But the experience, wisdom, and history we carry from the past are just as important in shaping the future. That’s why it’s crucial to have voices like mine speaking up when it matters.”
