This NPP primary campaign should position Kennedy Agyapong as a bold, independent, and results-driven alternative to the Nana Addo-Dr Bawumia political establishment. It should not be just choosing a party leader but a kind of leader that commands public trust if Ghanaian candidacy is not just a party leader. It should draw a sharp contrast between his practical, lived experience and what is portrayed as the failed, excuse-laden leadership of the Nana Addo–Dr. Bawumia administration.
Key Themes Ken Should Vigorously Highlight and Their Political Significance
The people of Ghana are looking for a trusted or a true leader, but over the previous NPP leadership such caliber is scarce. This campaign is the shadow of the bigger one in 2028. If Ken fails to vigorously hit the main points against my friend Dr. Bawumia, he will not be able to win public trust and that is his failure in 2028 election for a free and fair election. The Ghanaians want to see him off the ring about Nana Addo-Dr. Bawumia’s leadership. Here are what to emphasize
Economy and Interest Rates. This message should be a critique to Dr. Bawumia’s economic management, arguing that academic credentials alone (his PhD in economics) have not translated into real-world solutions. Ken, by contrast, should present himself as someone who understands the economy from the ground up—through business, not theory nor book knowledge.
Inflation and Cost of Living. This highlights the daily struggles of Ghanaians and frames Ken as someone who acknowledges the hardship and offers practical, local solutions—not imported economic models. This does not need an economic guru to blame problems like Dr. Bawumia. Does Mr. Mahama need a PhD in economics before fixing the country?
IMF and Debt Management. Ken’s stance against IMF bailouts should be used to emphasize fiscal discipline and national self-reliance. The campaign should criticize the previous NPP administration’s excessive borrowing and failed policies like the Gold-for-Oil program.
Corruption and Governance. The campaign should point to scandals like the National Cathedral project (alleged $58 million mismanagement) as evidence of poor governance. Ken should promise if that cathedra is important for the country and Mr. Mahama fails to retrieve the money he will work to fight corruption with action—not committees—and to ensure transparency in public spending.
Education Reform. Ken’s “One Nation, One Classroom” vision should still be his direct response to the Track A/B system and their failure. Ken’s vision should be framed as a bold, tech-driven education revolution that ensures equal access and prepares students for the 21st century.
Infrastructure and Digitalization. Ending dumsor is not just about electricity—it’s about enabling digital transformation. Ken’s should maintain his plan to tie infrastructure to innovation, showing how power and internet access are foundational to national progress.
Mining Contracts and Resource Management. Ken should maintain his deep pledge to renegotiate mining contracts. This is framed as a patriotic move to ensure Ghana benefits from its own resources. It’s a call for accountability, environmental responsibility and economic justice.
Ethical Leadership and Independence. Ken has been trusted and portrayed as a truth-teller—even when it means challenging his own party. He should maintain this trait because it positions him as a reformer, not a party loyalist and appeals to voters across political lines.
Contrast with Dr. Bawumia. The Lawmaker should proof his competence over the incompetence of Dr. Bawumia. Ken should campaign and draw attention to Dr. Bawumia’s past criticisms of others (like his 75 questions to former VP Amissah-Arthur) and suggests that he has failed to live up to his own standards. It argues that he often blames external factors (COVID-19, Ukraine war, global trends) rather than taking responsibility.
Accountability and infrastructure delivery. Mr. Agyapong could face Dr. Bawumia with serious a campaign-ready tone: “Let’s talk about roads—not excuses.”
Mr. Agyapong could ask: “Dr. Bawumia, where is the accountability for the $45 million road contract reportedly awarded to Chairman Wontumi’s company, Hallmark Civil Engineering, for the Dadieso–Akontombra Road? Why was the money paid, but the road never delivered?”
If Dr. Bawumia refuses to answer, Ken could press further: “Why is it that every time something goes wrong, you shift the blame—Ukraine war, COVID-19, global trends—but never take responsibility? Leadership is not about finding scapegoats. It’s about fixing problems.”
And then, with sharp clarity: “You claim to be a Doctor of Economics, but what has that PhD done for Ghana? Inflation is up. Interest rates are up. The cedi is down. If your education hasn’t helped the economy, then what exactly has it helped?”
Finally, Ken could conclude: “This is not about academic titles. It’s about results. And if your record is anything to go by, then respectfully, you’ve disqualified yourself from leading this party—let alone this country.” This approach keeps the tone bold but focused, and it centers the conversation on performance, not personality.
This is not just a campaign, it’s a movement. One that seeks to rise above party politics and restore trust in leadership. It’s a call to action for Ghanaians who are disillusioned with excuses, blames and ready for execution.
By
Gaddiel R. Ackah
[email protected]
U.S. Navy veteran. Lives in U.S.A.
Social Advocate for economic independence and ethical leadership. His work spans education, business, leadership and creative arts, making him a multifaceted influencer.
Author of Many Leadership and Inspiring Books.
Competent Leadership: Becoming Successful Our Happiness. Some Choices Matter Respect Matters Faith Wipes Tears The Power of Faith.
