New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant Kwabena Agyei Agyepong has described himself as the bridge linking Ghana’s political past with its future.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition, the former presidential spokesperson under the Kufuor administration highlighted his unique political journey, which spans Ghana’s military regimes, democratic transition, and the current technological era.
“I have been fortunate to witness and live through the changes in Ghana’s politics—from the military era, through the democratic transition, to the present age of rapid technological advancement,” he said. “I see myself as a bridge because I am old enough to have seen the events from the 1980s through 1992, the 2001 handover, and the transformation that has followed. If our forefathers woke up today, they would be shocked by the world we live in.”
Mr. Agyepong stressed that the NPP’s foundations were built on values forged during some of the country’s most difficult times.
“Our political tradition was formed during a period of extreme hardship. It took men of courage, dedication, values, principles, sacrifice, and selflessness to stand by this tradition. Those values remain essential today,” he noted.
While acknowledging that democracy has not yet delivered the full economic dividends many expected, he warned against turning away from it.
“Yes, there is widespread disillusionment because the benefits have not matched expectations. But democracy remains far better than autocracy or military dictatorship. It took the blood, sweat, and sacrifices of many Ghanaians to bring us this far, and we must protect it,” he emphasized.
He also cautioned against political deception, insisting that politics must always prioritize the welfare of the ordinary Ghanaian, particularly the underprivileged.
“Politics is not about serving ourselves. It’s about the larger community. The central focus should always be the well-being of the people,” he said.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Mr. Agyepong credited his Methodist background for instilling in him values of respect and discipline. “We were raised to respect our elders. Disagreement is possible, but it must always be done respectfully,” he added.
Turning to Ghana’s broader challenges, the NPP flagbearer hopeful warned that the country faces serious social pressures beyond politics and the economy.
“Our population is heading towards 35 million, and in the past 10 to 15 years, the numbers have risen drastically. Yet our infrastructure has not expanded enough to absorb this growth. The result is a growing army of disappointed and disillusioned youth. If we do not act, we risk sitting on a time bomb,” he cautioned.
