NPP Condemns Verbal Attacks on Former President Kufuor by NDC Members

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned recent verbal attacks on former President John Agyekum Kufuor by members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), calling for accountability and respect in political discourse.

This statement follows a viral video in which Dela Edem, a member of the NDC’s National Communications Team and an aide to former President John Mahama, made derogatory comments about President Kufuor. The comments, which have sparked widespread outrage, were aired during a live appearance on TV XYZ on November 16, 2024.

In the video, Dela Edem reportedly claimed that “President Kufuor is evil, and that’s why he is in a wheelchair and has been cursed to remain in a wheelchair.” These inflammatory remarks were swiftly condemned by the NPP, who described them as “despicable, shameful, and disgraceful.” The party’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, known widely as Nana B, expressed strong disapproval, emphasizing that such attacks are unacceptable, especially against a respected statesman like former President Kufuor.

The NPP reiterated that the comments made by Edem were baseless and unprovoked. The party pointed out that Kufuor, a former president who served two terms from 2001 to 2009, had a distinguished record in office, and that personal attacks on his health and character were not only disrespectful but also harmful to the political climate in the country.

Nana B further criticized the leadership of the NDC, particularly John Mahama, for failing to publicly address the offensive remarks. “It is disheartening to see the silence from the NDC’s flagbearer, John Mahama, on this matter,” Nana B stated. “As a leader, Mahama has a responsibility to demonstrate accountability and ensure that his party members, including aides like Dela Edem, adhere to standards of decorum and respect.” He called on Mahama to take immediate action, urging him to distance himself from Edem’s comments and issue a public apology to former President Kufuor and the Ghanaian public.

The NPP’s statement also stressed the importance of maintaining a level of civility in political discourse, noting that public figures should be held to a higher standard. They called for an end to the practice of using offensive language to attack individuals based on their personal circumstances, such as health challenges, as a means of political scoring.

The party believes that such attacks only serve to deepen divisions within the political landscape and undermine the efforts of Ghana’s democratic institutions. It is vital, they argue, for all political players to engage in constructive dialogue and avoid inciting hatred or discord among Ghanaians.

The NPP concluded its statement by appealing to all political parties, including the NDC, to promote respectful and responsible political engagement, setting a positive example for future generations. “Our democracy thrives on mutual respect, and it is imperative that we uphold these values in all political engagements,” said Nana B.

As the political season intensifies, the NPP’s call for respect and unity echoes the need for more responsible leadership in Ghana’s political discourse.