NPP’s internal backlash forced me to apologize to President Mahama – Kennedy Agyapong

Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, has disclosed that he deliberately remained silent during a key phase of last year’s campaign after some members of his own party used his past comments against him.

In an interview, Mr. Agyapong revealed that he was accused of committing what was termed “10 sins”—a compilation of controversial statements and actions allegedly documented by party insiders to damage his presidential bid.

He explained that many of the remarks were originally targeted at the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and were applauded by his party at the time.

“When I was criticizing the NDC, my party was happy. But when I decided to contest, they used those things against me as sins I had committed,” he said.

Mr. Agyapong clarified that his criticisms were intended to offer constructive feedback aimed at improving political leadership, not to attack opponents. However, during the primaries, those very criticisms were reportedly turned against him by his own party members.

He said the internal attacks compelled him to publicly apologize to former President John Mahama, whom he had previously criticized.

He added that he now appreciates the cordial relationship he once had with Mr. Mahama and his family.

Reflecting on the so-called “10 sins,” Mr. Agyapong explained that it was this framing that led him to stay silent.

“In the Bible, we have 10 commandments, and since Abraham’s time, no one has added an eleventh. So I decided not to say more for anyone to add 11 or 12 sins to my name,” he said with a touch of humor.