In a stirring address at the official launch of his presidential campaign office, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong (KAA) declared his candidacy for the 2028 elections, positioning himself as the leader to revive the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and restore hope in Ghana’s future.
Speaking to party delegates, loyalists, and the media, Agyepong described the moment as a “defining point” for both the NPP and Ghana, warning that the party’s soul “cries out for rescue” and the nation thirsts for visionary leadership.
A Call to Return to NPP’s Founding Values
Agyepong lamented the erosion of the NPP’s core principles—merit, honesty, and service—emphasizing that the party’s tradition was built on “sound values, not money politics.” He expressed concern over growing disillusionment among members, citing mass defections and voter apathy in recent elections.
“Our proud tradition is under serious strain. Many faithful patriots have abandoned us in anger, while others have resigned in their hearts,” he stated. “We must return to politics as a noble calling, not a marketplace for parochial interests.”
Urgent Reforms Needed in Governance and Healthcare
The presidential hopeful highlighted systemic failures in governance, particularly in healthcare, referencing the tragic deaths of a doctor and a lawmaker due to inadequate medical access. He called for efficient deployment of health resources, mandatory basic life support training, and widespread availability of defibrillators.
On youth unemployment, Agyepong noted that 60% of Ghana’s population faces joblessness or poverty-level wages, driving educated youth away from the NPP. “The party of progress has dangerously drifted from its values,” he admitted.
A New Vision for Ghana
Agyepong proposed a “Triple S Doctrine” of leadership—Service, Sacrifice, and Selflessness—pledging to rebuild Ghana’s economy with fair wages, agricultural value-chain development, and youth empowerment in education, sports, and entrepreneurship.
“As a civil engineer, I will lead urban regeneration and rural renewal to improve livelihoods,” he said, vowing to restore meritocracy and integrity in public service.
Personal Resilience and Party Loyalty
Reflecting on his personal journey, Agyepong shared how the 1982 murder of his father, Justice Kojo Agyei Agyepong, shaped his commitment to justice and service. He emphasized his unwavering loyalty to the NPP, having served under every flagbearer since 1992, including as Press Secretary for President Kufuor and later as General Secretary.
“I am the bridge between our founding fathers and the future of this party,” he declared, urging delegates to reject monetized elections and choose principled leadership.
A Plea for Unity and Decisive Action
ING Agyepong warned against internal divisions and hate speech, calling for unity to reclaim the NPP’s legacy. “If we treat ourselves as adversaries, how can we earn Ghanaians’ trust?” he questioned.
“With me, the NPP has a clear path to victory. Ghana must be engineered into prosperity,” he concluded, rallying supporters with the slogan: “The time for renewal is now. The time for hope is now. The time for KAA is now.”
The launch sets the stage for a heated NPP primaries contest as Agyepong positions himself as the candidate of reform, integrity, and transformation.
By Kingsley Asiedu
