Flagbearer hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has underscored that his political ambition is rooted in principle, integrity, and service – not the mere pursuit of power.
Speaking as part of his nationwide engagements ahead of the party’s January 31, 2026 presidential primaries, Mr. Agyepong said his vision for leadership prioritises discipline, humility, and the restoration of ethical governance in Ghana.
The former NPP General Secretary reaffirmed his belief that politics should not be reduced to opportunism but must reflect a genuine desire to advance national progress. According to him, he remains committed to speaking up for what is right, even if doing so comes with political consequences.
“I want to be known as the one who stood up for what is right in Ghana. I want to die on principle and push for things to be done properly in our country, and if it comes at a political cost, it doesn’t matter”
Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, NPP Flagbearer Hopeful
Mr. Agyepong explained that public service should never be about personal enrichment or partisan loyalty, but instead it should focus on transparency, competence, and the national interest. His campaign message, built on humility and ethical leadership, seeks to inspire renewed trust in Ghana’s political class.
As part of his reform message, Agyepong called for restraint and modesty among politicians, arguing that those in public office must be sensitive to the economic hardships facing citizens, noting that the “culture of extravagance,” among political elites undermines public confidence and deepens social inequality.
“If we, the political leaders, lead by example, and we show by actions that we don’t like these kinds of stuff, I think it will snowball to the rest of the population.
“Once you go into public office, you’ve got to be sensitive to the Ghanaian people, especially the suffering that they go through. This is not the time to showcase wealth and opulence right in their faces. Those are the things that I want to stop”
Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, NPP Flagbearer Hopeful
For him, displays of wealth by public officials during lavish celebrations, weddings, and parties, only reinforce the notion that political leaders as tone-deaf to the realities of ordinary Ghanaians. He called on politicians to do better. His remarks reflect his consistent call for a shift in political culture – a shift away from entitlement and toward servant leadership that connects meaningfully with the people.
National Duty, Not Party Reward
Mr. Kwabena Agyepong also urged a national rethink of politics and governance, saying leadership should be seen as a call to duty rather than a reward for political loyalty.
He expressed that Ghana’s presidency must serve all citizens, not just supporters of the ruling party.
“I think it is time now to recalibrate the way we see politics and understand that it is not a piece of cake to be shared by politicians and their cronies and their party. When you are elected as president, you are president for everybody”
Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, NPP Flagbearer Hopeful
He believes this approach would promote inclusion, reduce partisanship, and strengthen public trust in state institutions, adding that his campaign message is one of renewal – rooted in “honesty, fairness, and national unity.”
Agyepong also expressed disappointment over the decision of former Trade Minister Mr. Alan Kyerematen to leave the NPP and establish a new political movement, describing the development as personally painful.
“I’m pained, you know, because Alan is like a big brother to me… It hurts that he’s left,” he said.
Mr. Kyerematen’s Movement for Change recently rebranded as the United Party (UP Plus) – officially launched in Accra and presented as a new force for credible leadership and governance reform. UP Plus Chairman Abubakar Saddique Boniface said the movement’s goal is to “bring real change to governance” through competence and integrity.
Mr. Alan Kyerematen, unveiling the rebrand, described it as “a pivotal moment” for Ghana’s democracy – one aimed at fostering unity and national development over division.
While acknowledging his disappointment, Mr. Kwabena Agyepong maintained that Ghana’s political transformation must remain a collective effort grounded in values, humility, and genuine service to the people.
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