Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a potential flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed disappointment over the party’s failure to fulfill its campaign promises and effectively combat corruption since taking office in 2017.
Agyapong has criticized both the NPP government and the judiciary for the lack of progress in addressing corruption-related issues. While acknowledging that there have been attempts to tackle corruption cases, he highlighted that many of these cases have been subject to prolonged delays and alleged manipulation within the judiciary.
During an interview with Umaru Sanda on Citi TV on August 15, 2023, Agyapong stressed the need to assign blame objectively and fairly for the lack of progress. He pointed out that the judiciary’s slow handling of corruption cases has hindered the government’s efforts to effectively address the issue.
Agyapong also emphasized the importance of involving Ghanaians as partners in the fight against corruption. He suggested that educating and conscientizing the public is crucial for successful anti-corruption efforts.
He expressed the view that the NPP made a mistake by not engaging in more active efforts to educate Ghanaians about the importance of fighting corruption collectively for the benefit of the country’s development.
Kennedy Agyapong will compete for the NPP’s flagbearer position along with nine other contenders, including former trade minister Alan Kyerematen and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who are considered his main challengers.
The NPP plans to reduce the field of 10 candidates who passed the vetting stage to five through a preliminary vote in August. The main contest to elect a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the party’s leader is scheduled for November 2023.
