Veteran politician and businessman Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has graciously conceded defeat in the highly contested New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries, urging his disappointed supporters to remain calm, hold on to their faith, and unite behind the party in preparation for future challenges.
In a heartfelt yet composed address to his campaign team—especially the loyal “Team Ken”—delivered shortly after provisional results signalled a commanding lead for former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Mr. Agyapong expressed deep gratitude for their dedication. He encouraged them not to let the sting of defeat give way to bitterness or division, but instead to channel their energy toward strengthening the party’s collective resolve.
“I know most of you are dejected. You have to keep your spirit up, because once we have life, we have everything. So don’t be dejected,” he said, drawing from his experience as a “veteran politician” who has endured several defeats in the past.
Mr. Agyapong, who mounted a robust campaign emphasising grassroots appeal, economic nationalism, and anti-corruption rhetoric, acknowledged the unpredictable nature of politics. “In politics, you can win, you can lose… I cushioned myself and expected the worst, and the worst has happened, but the worst doesn’t mean that is the end of life,” he stated.
He particularly singled out appreciation for his campaign coordinator, praising the “wonderful work” done by the team. “At an appropriate time, we’ll meet and dine together,” he added. Central to his message was a strong plea for party unity and discipline. Mr. Agyapong warned against any actions that could sow discord within the NPP. “I’m pleading with all of you not to do anything. We have to stay calm. We believe in the party. The delegates have spoken. We have to take it,” he emphasised.
“Do not use this against anybody in the party… Let’s all come together as party members and work together,” he continued, stressing that the party has “three years to go” ahead of the 2028 general elections. “Who knows what will happen tomorrow?”
Weaving faith into his remarks, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong reassured supporters with the words: “God will take care of you. He knew this day would come… The same God who created us knew today would surely come to pass.” He drew on the party’s experiences in 2023 as a reminder of resilience and perseverance. Lightening the mood, he invited his team to enjoy the refreshments provided: “There’s plenty of food.
Go in there, eat. We have champagne, wine, beer. Take what you can, and let’s see what tomorrow brings.”
His address came as partial results across the country showed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia holding a commanding lead in several constituencies, including Bono East, Upper East, and Greater Accra. Meanwhile, Mr. Agyapong recorded strong support in his home constituency of Assin Central—reportedly securing over 495 votes—and scattered wins in other areas. The Electoral Commission is expected to announce the final results in the coming hours.
Source: GraphicOnline
