NPP Turmoil: Kennedy Agyapong's Explosive Warnings Spark Internal Crisis

Following its painful defeat in the 2024 general election, Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) is grappling with significant internal disputes as it strives to rebuild, reconcile, and position itself for a return to power in 2028. Former Minister for Food and Agriculture and Abetifi MP, Dr Bryan Acheampong, has issued a statement on June 19, 2026, appealing to former NPP presidential aspirant Kennedy Agyapong to channel his considerable influence towards unifying the party rather than exacerbating internal divisions. Dr Acheampong warned that prolonged internal disputes would only benefit the party’s political opponents, emphasizing that the party’s foremost responsibility is to heal and reunite.

At the heart of these tensions are Kennedy Agyapong’s outspoken comments on governance and accountability, which have drawn both criticism and defense from within the party. Mr Agyapong, who contested the NPP’s January 2026 flagbearership race, has declared he will not be intimidated or silenced by his critics. He recently accused the previous NPP administration of failing to complete and operationalise the Afari Military Hospital within its eight years in office, describing it as a significant missed opportunity for healthcare delivery. Dismissing suggestions that his remarks were motivated by bitterness, Mr Agyapong insisted his concerns stem from a genuine desire for national development, not partisan considerations. He further alleged widespread corruption, citing uncompleted projects like "Agenda 111" and the practice of selling public contracts with kickbacks, claiming similar incidents have occurred across political divides.

In defense of Mr Agyapong, his spokesperson, Kwasi Kwarteng, maintained that the former Assin Central MP's comments were intended to promote introspection and reconciliation, not division. Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr Kwarteng characterized Mr Agyapong as a deeply committed party member whose remarks should be viewed as constructive criticism. He stressed that the issues raised by Mr Agyapong should serve as an opportunity for reflection, not conflict, and underscored that strong political parties are built on effective reconciliation and dispute resolution mechanisms. Mr Kwarteng urged the NPP to utilize the ongoing debate to strengthen internal unity ahead of the 2028 elections, advocating for greater internal engagement and dialogue.

Amidst the swirling accusations, Dr Bryan Acheampong also took to clarify that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s flagbearer for 2028 and former Vice President, was not responsible for any attacks directed at Kennedy Agyapong during the party’s recent internal contest. While admitting that some supporters from various campaigns, including his own, made disrespectful comments, Dr Acheampong asserted there was no evidence linking Dr Bawumia to these actions. He suggested that some individuals had pre-existing personal disagreements with Mr Agyapong and acted independently, cautioning against blaming the flagbearer or the entire party for the misconduct of a few. Dr Acheampong reiterated his hope for reconciliation among all parties without prerequisites, emphasizing truthfulness and fairness in assigning blame.

However, the gravity of the situation escalated with the filing of a formal petition seeking disciplinary review against Kennedy Agyapong. Charles Opoku, Deputy National TESCON Coordinator, submitted a petition on June 18, accusing Mr Agyapong of a "pattern of misconduct" detrimental to party unity. The petition alleges that Mr Agyapong’s public statements against fellow NPP members and opposition to official party positions have brought the party into disrepute, violating Article 3 of the NPP constitution. Specifically, Opoku cited Mr Agyapong’s criticism of the NPP Minority caucus over the Afari Military Hospital impasse, accusing him of using "outright lies and false fabrications." The petition also raised concerns about "The Base," a group operating outside recognized party structures, and Mr Agyapong's threats to disclose confidential party documents. Furthermore, it noted his public declarations to "attack the NPP party in June/July 2027" and "never campaign for the NPP ahead of the 2028 elections," which have generated widespread anxiety among party members. The petitioner urged Mr Agyapong to disclose any information regarding wrongdoing to appropriate party organs or state institutions rather than using it as a public threat, emphasizing the petition’s aim to serve party unity and long-term success.

As the NPP navigates its role in opposition and prepares for the 2028 polls, these internal struggles highlight the critical need for effective leadership and genuine reconciliation. The appeals for unity, coupled with calls for accountability and the initiation of disciplinary action, underscore the significant challenge facing the party as it seeks to overcome its 2024 defeat and present a united front for future elections. The resolution of these internal feuds will be crucial for the NPP's aspirations to return to power.