As Ghana’s political landscape begins to shift in anticipation of the 2028 general elections, all eyes are once again on the New Patriotic Party (NPP). With the dust from the 2024 contest settling and fresh internal divisions simmering beneath the surface, the party finds itself at a critical crossroads. Will the NPP be able to “break the 8” and secure a historic third consecutive term in power?
One name stands out as a potential unifier and stabilizing figure: Kennedy Ohene Agyepong.
Often described as outspoken, fearless, and uncompromising, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central may not fit the traditional mold of a consensus-builder. But beneath his tough exterior lies a politician who has, time and again, demonstrated a deep commitment to the party’s unity, integrity, and future. As the NPP prepares for its next internal flagbearer race, Kennedy Agyepong is emerging not just as a contender — but as the unifying force the party so desperately needs.
A Party at a Crossroads
Before exploring Agyepong’s role, it is important to acknowledge the context within which the NPP currently operates. The aftermath of the 2024 elections has left the party more divided than ever. Factionalism, internal suspensions, and discontent among grassroots members have all contributed to a weakening of party cohesion. The push to “break the 8” — a reference to ending the two-term presidential cycle that has become tradition in Ghanaian politics — will require not just good governance but a party that is united, focused, and energized.
This is where Kennedy Agyepong’s unique brand of leadership becomes especially relevant.
Kennedy Agyepong: A Man of the People
Unlike many political elites who remain distant from the party’s base, Agyepong has built a reputation as a grassroots politician. During the 2024 NPP presidential primaries, he surprised political observers by securing a strong second-place finish, beating several high-profile candidates and solidifying his standing as a man with real support among ordinary delegates.
What sets him apart is his ability to speak plainly, connect emotionally, and tap into the frustrations and hopes of the party’s rank-and-file members. In an era of polished speeches and rehearsed soundbites, Agyepong’s authenticity is refreshing — and politically powerful. Many within the party view him as someone who understands their struggles and is willing to stand up for them, even at personal or political cost.
Calling for Reconciliation
Perhaps the most compelling evidence of Agyepong’s potential as a unifying force is his open call for reconciliation within the NPP. In recent interviews, he has repeatedly urged party leaders to reintegrate suspended and alienated members. He has criticized the growing intolerance and favoritism within the party’s internal structures and emphasized the need to heal wounds inflicted during previous primaries.
Agyepong has warned that unless the party takes reconciliation seriously, it risks alienating a significant portion of its base. “You cannot win power with a divided front,” he stated in a 2025 media engagement, urging the party to drop its culture of internal vendettas and bring all hands on deck.
This message of unity resonates deeply with party faithful, many of whom feel marginalized by factional politics and selective appointments.
The Anti-Factional Candidate
One of the most polarizing issues within the NPP has been the rise of factions aligned with individual political personalities. Over the years, the battle lines between various camps — from pro-Bawumia to pro-Alan and others — have created deep rifts in the party’s foundation. These divisions not only hurt morale but also disrupt strategy, funding, and electoral mobilization.
Kennedy Agyepong stands out as a candidate who, though independent-minded, does not owe allegiance to any particular faction. He is not viewed as a “project” of any political godfather. This neutrality is a huge asset. It positions him as someone who can bridge the gap between rival camps and offer an alternative to the internal “us vs them” mentality that has plagued the party.
In short, he is the one candidate who can bring everybody to the table without old loyalties getting in the way.
Integrity, Accountability, and Tough Love
Kennedy Agyepong is not just calling for unity for unity’s sake. He believes in uniting the party around principles — particularly honesty, performance, and accountability. He has repeatedly called out corruption and mismanagement, even when it has meant criticizing members of his own government or party.
Some may interpret his bluntness as divisive, but others see it as a form of tough love — the kind of truth-telling leadership the party needs if it wants to maintain credibility with Ghanaians. Agyepong’s emphasis on cleaning house and returning to the NPP’s founding values could be the glue that binds disillusioned party members who want more than just slogans.
Uniting the Youth and the Base
Another factor working in Agyepong’s favor is his appeal to the youth. Ghana’s voter demographics are shifting, with younger voters forming an increasingly significant portion of the electorate. Many of them are frustrated with unemployment, poor leadership, and a lack of genuine representation.
Agyepong’s frankness, business success, and message of discipline resonate strongly with this demographic. He represents something different — not an ivory tower politician, but someone who has built success from the ground up and is ready to hold others to the same standard.
His ability to inspire hope among both the youth and the traditional NPP base makes him a rare bridge across generational divides — something few other NPP leaders have managed to achieve.
Critics and the Path Ahead
Of course, Kennedy Agyepong’s candidacy is not without criticism. Detractors argue that his confrontational style may make it hard for him to build coalitions across party lines. Others worry about how his directness might affect Ghana’s diplomatic and institutional culture.
However, it’s important to separate media caricature from actual leadership capability. Agyepong has demonstrated that he knows when to draw the line between candour and statesmanship. His ability to concede gracefully in 2024, work behind the scenes for party unity, and maintain a disciplined message in recent months suggests a maturing candidate who understands the stakes ahead.
The Time for Change Is Now
The NPP stands on the edge of either renewal or stagnation. The same old strategies and alliances may not be enough to carry the party into 2028. A new approach is required — one grounded in unity, honesty, grassroots mobilization, and policy credibility.
Kennedy Agyepong offers that new approach.
He is not just another politician looking to ride the party machinery to power. He is a loyal party stalwart who has sacrificed time, resources, and reputation for the good of the NPP. He speaks to the base. He challenges the elite. And most importantly, he believes in a united NPP capable of delivering transformational leadership to Ghana.
If the NPP truly wants to re-energize its supporters, attract floating voters, and offer Ghanaians something bold and fresh in 2028, then Kennedy Agyepong must not be ignored.
Final Thoughts
Unity is more than just a campaign slogan — it is the foundation upon which election victories are built. In a country where voter trust in political parties is declining, and where internal divisions have proven fatal in the past, the NPP needs a candidate who not only commands support but can consolidate it.
Kennedy Agyepong has shown — through action, words, and principle — that he can be that candidate.
The question for the NPP is simple: will they choose a unifier who understands the base, respects the truth, and is willing to challenge the status quo for the party’s long-term survival?
Or will they allow old divisions to fester and miss the opportunity to present a truly united front in 2028?
