Kennedy Ohene Agyapong and Stephen Ntim
Tensions continue to rise within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Member of Parliament for Assin Central and 2024 presidential primaries runner-up, has abruptly withdrawn from the party’s ongoing ‘Thank You’ tour.
Mr. Agyapong announced his decision during the Kumasi leg of the nationwide tour, citing violent disturbances involving his supporters and alleged intimidation by party-affiliated security personnel.
The incident, which led to the injury of a student supporter, occurred after a group from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) reportedly joined the tour to show support for Mr. Agyapong by singing party songs.
A GH¢1,000 donation from a member of his camp to cover their transport costs allegedly triggered violence when the money was forcibly taken from them by individuals believed to be part of the tour’s security detail.
The scuffle that ensued resulted in the stabbing of a student and prompted Mr. Agyapong to file a complaint at the South Suntreso Police Station.
Addressing the media, Mr. Agyapong explained that he agreed to join the tour after receiving a personal invitation from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate. However, he said the violent incident and the atmosphere of tension forced him to step away from the tour with immediate effect.
In a related development, Stephen Ntim, the NPP’s National Chairman, has also temporarily withdrawn from the tour. In a statement signed by the party’s Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah, the NPP said Mr. Ntim had taken a short break to attend to “pressing matters” but remains committed to rejoining the tour in due course.
The NPP’s ‘Thank You’ tour was launched to reconnect with the party’s base following its defeat in the 2024 general election.
However, the recent developments in Kumasi have cast a shadow over the party’s efforts to promote unity and reconciliation.
Political Desk Report