Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to prioritize competence and personal merit over tribal, religious, or gender considerations when selecting the party’s next presidential candidate.
His comments come amid growing internal debate following the party’s announcement of January 31, 2026, as the date for its presidential primaries.
Addressing party members at the launch of the NPP’s new policy think tank, the Patriotic Institute, on Wednesday, June 25, the former President stressed that the NPP’s democratic foundations must guide its decision-making process.
“In a democracy, we don’t go for tribe or religion or gender but the individual,” Kufuor said. “If we want power, we have to present a person who will be convincing to the generality of the electorate.”
He underscored the principle of “one man, one vote,” reminding the party that winning national elections requires appealing to a broad and diverse electorate, not just narrow identity groups.
Kufuor also cautioned against narratives that could reinforce long-standing accusations from political opponents who have labeled the NPP as a tribal party.
“We’ve been brushed by our opponents as a tribal party — and these days, we are even adding religion… If these things come from our own mouths, then I tell you, we are perpetuating it ourselves,” he warned.
Calling for introspection and honesty, the former President urged the NPP to choose a unifying figure capable of addressing the country’s pressing challenges and ensuring inclusive national development.
“Tell the truth to ourselves and focus on selecting a leader who can unify the country and help solve the problems of the community at large, so it benefits and spreads across the board for all,” he said.
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