Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has voiced strong support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, commending his policies and leadership vision as the answer to Ghana's developmental needs. Speaking at a rally in Abuakwa South on November 27, 2024, Kufuor urged Ghanaians to rally behind Dr. Bawumia, describing his approach as inclusive and transformative.
“I have been paying attention. Bawumia’s policies, particularly his focus on training the youth in entrepreneurial and digital skills, are good. If you don’t want this, what do you want?” Kufuor asked the crowd. He added, “I plead with you, he is not just coming for the NPP but for the whole country. His policies will alleviate the suffering of Ghanaians. I have listened to all those talking about their policies, but I haven’t seen anyone with policies as good as Bawumia’s.”
Kufuor emphasized Bawumia’s dedication to national progress rather than partisan interests, describing his leadership as one that prioritizes the welfare of every Ghanaian. Highlighting his extensive experience in governance, Kufuor vouched for the capabilities of the former Vice President, noting his pivotal role in the nation’s financial recovery during the early 2000s.
“During my administration, he was a member of the Bank of Ghana team and demonstrated remarkable performance during a challenging period when Ghana was in financial distress. Their efforts were instrumental in revitalizing the economy at that time,” Kufuor said, reflecting on Bawumia’s accomplishments as a technocrat and policymaker.
Defending His Endorsement
Kufuor’s open endorsement of Bawumia has not come without criticism. Some political figures and critics, including Movement for Change flagbearer Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, have called on the former president to refrain from public endorsements, citing his status as a statesman. They argue that such endorsements could polarize the political environment.
In response to the backlash, Kufuor defended his right to express his opinions on national issues, asserting that his wisdom and experience, acquired over decades of public service, give him a unique perspective. “I am facing criticism for voicing my opinions on national matters due to my position as a statesman. Experience and wisdom are often associated with age,” he told supporters gathered at the Ofori Panin Palace in Abuakwa South.
Kufuor reiterated that his affiliation with the NPP is an intrinsic part of his political legacy and that endorsing Bawumia aligns with his long-held belief in the party’s mission. “The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is my political affiliation, and it was through this party that I attained the presidency. Additionally, my child, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has been elected through the party,” Kufuor said, underscoring his confidence in the NPP’s candidate.
A Call for Unity and Vision
Kufuor’s endorsement comes at a critical moment as Ghana heads into the December 2024 general elections. His call for support for Bawumia highlights the broader themes of leadership and vision that he believes are necessary for the nation’s advancement. By focusing on youth empowerment through entrepreneurial and digital skills training, Kufuor believes Bawumia’s policies address the country’s pressing challenges, particularly unemployment and economic stagnation.
“Bawumia’s focus on the youth is commendable. If the future of Ghana is in the hands of its young people, then providing them with the tools and skills they need is the right path forward,” Kufuor remarked, pointing to the transformative potential of policies that prioritize education, technology, and economic growth.
The former president also called on voters to assess the policies of all candidates critically, urging them to choose leadership that is not only competent but also dedicated to the welfare of all citizens.
The Larger Political Landscape
Bawumia’s candidacy has been a focal point of the NPP’s campaign, with the party positioning him as the leader best suited to guide Ghana into a new era of economic prosperity and political stability. His policies, which include an emphasis on digital transformation and inclusive governance, have been widely discussed on the campaign trail.
Meanwhile, the endorsement by Kufuor adds significant weight to Bawumia’s candidacy, given Kufuor’s stature as a former president and respected statesman. However, it also raises questions about the role of elder statesmen in Ghana’s political discourse and their influence on voter behavior.
As the December elections draw nearer, the debate over leadership, vision, and policy continues to dominate public discussions. While Kufuor’s endorsement of Bawumia has intensified the political conversation, it also reflects the critical stakes of this election and the aspirations of many Ghanaians for a brighter future.
Ghana’s electorate now faces the task of deciding which candidate’s policies align most closely with their needs and expectations. For Kufuor, the choice is clear: “If you don’t want this, what do you want? I plead with you, support Bawumia for the future of our country.”
This resounding endorsement sets the tone for the NPP’s final push as they seek to secure victory in a highly competitive election season.
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