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NPP Stalwart Kennedy Agyapong Remains Loyal to Party Despite Primary Loss
Rumors circulating on social media that former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has broken away from the party are unfounded, according to multiple sources close to the politician.
The claims began spreading across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook following the NPP’s presidential primary on January 31, which was won by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Several posts alleged Agyapong had left to form a new political movement called “The BASE.”
These assertions, however, directly contradict Agyapong’s own statements and actions following the primary results. In his concession speech at NPP headquarters, the former Assin Central lawmaker explicitly called for party unity.
“In elections you can win and you can lose. So if you lose you have to accept it in good faith,” Agyapong said at the time. “Let all of us throw our support to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer. And all I say is NPP we need unity in the party, but unity comes with respect.”
Earlier, while addressing supporters as provisional results showed him trailing, Agyapong had urged them not to allow disappointment to create division. “Do not use this against anybody in the party… Let’s all come together as party members and work together,” he stated.
Senior members of Agyapong’s campaign have vehemently denied the breakaway claims. Joojo Rocky Obeng, former Western North Regional Minister and Director of Elections for the Kennedy Agyapong campaign, wrote on Facebook on February 13: “Defeat is painful but a breakaway ‘Third Force’ is NOT AN OPTION.”
Campaign spokesperson Kwasi Kwarteng was equally definitive when speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii sen program on February 16. “Kennedy Agyapong will never break away from the NPP; he has never dreamed of leaving the party or forming another one. He is a loyal NPP man and will stand by the party any day,” Kwarteng insisted.
The confusion appears to stem partly from social media posts showing buses branded with “The BASE” and Kennedy Agyapong’s image. However, these vehicles were actually deployed the day before the primary to transport delegates to polling stations, not as part of a new political movement.
Further muddying the waters, some social media posts shared video of a group announcing the formation of “The BASE” as a third political force alternative to both the NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress. Although the posts claimed Agyapong was behind this initiative, his name was never mentioned in the actual footage.
George Oti Bonsu, fundraising chairman of the Ken Campaign, clarified in a March 2 interview on Kessben TV that while “The BASE” exists as a group of citizens who share Agyapong’s vision, the politician himself has no direct or indirect connection to its formation.
“Kennedy Agyapong did not tell us to form The BASE. It was those of us who are on the ground and see how Ghanaians are concerned about the current issues in the country who formed The BASE,” Bonsu explained.
The circulation of these false claims comes at a sensitive time for the NPP as it works to unify following a competitive primary and prepare for general elections. Political analysts note that Ghana’s political landscape is particularly susceptible to such misinformation during transition periods within parties.
For now, all evidence indicates Kennedy Agyapong remains firmly within the NPP fold, contrary to the social media rumors suggesting otherwise.
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20 Comments
Glad to see the claims about Kennedy Agyapong leaving the NPP are false. It’s important to verify information, especially around political matters, before spreading rumors. Agyapong’s concession speech calling for party unity is a positive sign for the NPP’s future.
Agreed, maintaining party cohesion will be crucial for the NPP as they prepare for the general election. Agyapong’s statement shows he’s putting the party’s interests first despite his primary loss.
This fact-check helps quash potentially damaging misinformation. It’s critical that we rely on authoritative sources and verified information, especially when it comes to political developments. Glad to see the facts laid out clearly here.
Absolutely. Fact-checking is essential to combat the spread of falsehoods, which can have real consequences. This report demonstrates the value of that kind of rigorous, evidence-based journalism.
The NPP will need to stay united if they want to win the general election. Agyapong’s call for unity is a step in the right direction, though it remains to be seen how the party will coalesce behind the new flagbearer.
You make a fair point. Party unity is easier said than done, especially after a hard-fought primary. The NPP will have to work to bridge any divides that emerged.
It’s refreshing to see a politician like Agyapong accept a loss gracefully and pledge support for the nominee. That kind of sportsmanship is important for a healthy democracy. Kudos to him for putting the party first.
This fact-check provides much-needed clarity on the situation. It’s good to see Agyapong reaffirming his commitment to the NPP after the primary. Unfounded rumors can be damaging, so I’m glad the facts have been set straight.
It’s good to see the NPP addressing these rumors about Agyapong quickly and decisively. Maintaining internal cohesion is crucial, especially after a hard-fought primary. This should help the party regroup and chart a clear path forward.
The NPP needs to be commended for swiftly addressing the false claims about Agyapong. Intraparty divisions can be damaging, so his continued loyalty is important. Hopefully this allows the party to move forward in a united manner.
This is good news for the NPP. Agyapong is a respected figure, and his continued support will be valuable as the party gears up for the general election. Maintaining a united front is crucial for their electoral prospects.
You’re right, party unity is key. Agyapong’s acceptance of the primary result and pledge to back the nominee shows political maturity. Hopefully this sets a positive tone for the NPP campaign ahead.
This is a positive development for the NPP. Agyapong is a significant figure, and his commitment to the party will boost morale. Dispelling the rumors of a split is crucial for maintaining public trust in the party’s stability.
It’s reassuring to see the NPP taking steps to correct the misinformation about Agyapong. Maintaining unity in the party ranks is essential, especially after a closely contested primary. This should help the NPP regain its footing and focus on the real challenges ahead.
The false claims about Agyapong leaving the NPP were concerning. I’m glad the facts have been checked and the party’s unity maintained. This should allow them to focus on the real issues facing the country.
Agreed. With Agyapong still on board, the NPP can consolidate its support base and present a stronger challenge in the upcoming elections. Voters will appreciate the party’s show of unity.
Glad to see the claims about Kennedy Agyapong leaving the NPP proven false. It’s important for political parties to maintain unity, especially after a closely contested primary. Agyapong’s call for party unity is commendable.
The NPP has done well to quickly address the false claims about Agyapong’s departure. Keeping their prominent figures united will be key as they prepare for the general election. This should help them present a cohesive vision to the electorate.
This is an important fact-check by the NPP. Rumors of internal divisions can be damaging, so it’s good to see them proactively addressing this issue. Agyapong’s continued support will be valuable as the party moves forward.
It’s reassuring to see the rumors about Agyapong’s departure debunked. As a long-time NPP stalwart, his continued involvement will be important. The party needs to present a cohesive image to the electorate.