Kennedy Agyapong Says He’s “Not Bitter for Losing” But Hurt by Betrayal — Speaks Out in KSM Interview
Accra, Ghana — Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, businessman, former Assin Central Member of Parliament and one of the leading contenders in the recently concluded New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer race, has broken his silence on the outcome of the primaries in an in-depth interview with renowned broadcaster Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM).
Agyapong, who contested for the NPP’s 2028 presidential flagbearer position but was defeated by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, said the experience has profoundly reshaped his view of internal party politics and personal relationships within the NPP.
In the widely viewed interview, Agyapong emphasised that he is not resentful of Bawumia’s victory itself. Instead, what has left a lasting sting, he explained, was the conduct of some party members — especially individuals he had supported politically over the years.
“I will not allow myself to be used by anybody again. I need respect … I will not allow anybody to treat me with disrespect,” Agyapong told KSM.
The veteran politician, who turned 64 this year, said he entered the race fully aware of the possibility of defeat, acknowledging that “you can win or you can lose” in a competitive primary. However, what he found difficult to accept were what he described as derogatory remarks and personal insults directed against him by some colleagues — including those he had helped politically.
Agyapong stressed that while he respects the right of party members to support any candidate of their choice, he was deeply hurt by the nature of personal attacks from people he had once supported to achieve leadership positions.
“If you did not vote for me, that is your choice. I have no problem with that. But the insults from people I helped — that is where my problem is,” he said, underlining that his disappointment stemmed more from personal treatment than political defeat.
Despite speculation that he might pursue an independent presidential bid following his loss, Agyapong categorically ruled that out during the interview. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the NPP, stating clearly, “I am not going independent,” and that he intends to remain within the party’s fold as it prepares for future elections.
Political analysts say comments like Agyapong’s reflect broader tensions within the NPP ranks following last month’s primaries, which have exposed divisions as the party seeks to rebuild after its loss in the 2024 general elections.
As the NPP charts its path toward the main 2028 general election, voices from both supporters and critics argue that unity — particularly between leading figures like Bawumia and Agyapong — will be crucial if the party hopes to regain power.