Son of former President John Agyekum Kufuor enters race, pledging service over name
Edward Agyekum Kufuor, son of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, has formally declared his intention to contest the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidacy for the Atwima Nwabiagya North Constituency, setting the stage for a keenly watched primary in the Ashanti Region stronghold.
In a statement issued after what he described as “prayerful reflection and consultation,” Kufuor, who is also an actor, said his decision was driven by a desire to give back to a constituency that holds deep personal and political significance for his family.
“Atwima Nwabiagya North is home. It is the land my father, H.E. John Agyekum Kufuor, served as Member of Parliament before leading Ghana,” he said.
His father represented the Atwima Nwabiagya constituency in Parliament before ascending to the presidency in 2001 — a legacy the younger Kufuor says he is determined to honour, but not exploit.
“I return not to trade on a name, but to earn your trust through service, strategy and practical solutions for our people,” he declared.
Focus on Farmers, Youth and Infrastructure
Outlining his vision for the constituency, Kufuor promised to champion the construction of motorable feeder roads to link farming communities to markets, and to push for value addition to the area’s cocoa and food crops.
He also pledged to prioritise the protection of the Barekese catchment area — the reservoir that supplies water to Kumasi — alongside investments in quality schools, health facilities, and job creation.
“Our farmers, traders and young people deserve better,” he said, adding that he would support skills training and enterprise development to keep the youth working within the constituency.
Party Unity Central to His Campaign
Kufuor sought to reassure party members that his entry into the race would not deepen divisions, stressing that unity and inclusivity would be his first commitment as an aspirant.
“I respect every fellow aspirant and will work with executives, past and present, polling station executives, electoral area coordinators and grassroots members to keep Atwima Nwabiagya North an unbreakable NPP stronghold,” he said.
The declaration comes as the NPP, now in opposition, prepares for its parliamentary primaries ahead of the 2028 general elections, with the party seeking to recapture power and regain its majority in Parliament.
Commitment to the Party’s National Ambitions
Beyond the constituency, Mr. Kufuor pledged his resources, networks and experience to the party’s broader national effort, including the presidential ambition of former Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
“To me, leadership means service, strategy and solutions,” he stated. “Above all, the needs of the people of Atwima Nwabiagya North come first, before personal ambition or family name.”
He said he looks forward to engaging party members, chiefs and other stakeholders in the constituency as they “write a new chapter for Atwima Nwabiagya North.”
The Atwima Nwabiagya North seat is currently held by the NPP’s Akwasi Amankwaa Afrifa Mensah, meaning the constituency’s primary could feature a contest between the incumbent and the former President’s son — a battle likely to draw significant national attention.
Kufuor ended his declaration with a rallying call: “Together, let us build a united, prosperous and proud Atwima Nwabiagya North.”
By Gifty Boateng