The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has disassociated itself from comments reportedly made by the Member of Parliament for Asante Akim South, Kwaku Asante Boateng.
Kwaku Asante Boateng, in a radio discussion, referred to Dr Bawumia as an “alien and a stranger.”
In a statement signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party described the remarks as “unfortunate”. It said the Party remains firmly committed to inclusivity, equality, and national unity.
He emphasized that the NPP welcomes all Ghanaians, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or background, who are committed to the Party’s values and the country’s development.
Frimpong added that membership in the Party is based on loyalty and service to its principles, not on personal identity. The NPP reaffirmed its commitment to promoting respect, tolerance, and a political culture where every citizen’s dignity is respected.
The Party assured Ghanaians that it will continue to work for unity, progress, and equal opportunities for all.
“The National Secretariat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted with concern certain comments attributed to the Member of Parliament for Asante Akim South, Kwaku Asante Boateng, and considers such a statement unfortunate and disassociates itself from those remarks.
“The NPP reiterates its longstanding commitment to inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion. As a political tradition founded on the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, and equality, the Party remains dedicated to fostering a society where every Ghanaian, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or social background, can participate meaningfully in the governance and development of our nation,” the NPP statement read.
“The Party emphasizes that political membership and recognition within the NPP are not defined by personal attributes or identity, but by one’s loyalty, commitment, and service to the Party’s ideals and the national interest.
“The NPP, therefore, welcomes all citizens who subscribe to its core values and principles and are willing to contribute to the advancement of Ghana’s democratic and developmental agenda.
“As a Party of unity and progress, the NPP assures the Ghanaian people that it will continue to uphold the dignity of every citizen and to promote a political culture anchored in tolerance, respect, and inclusiveness,” the statement further read.
Following the statement by the NPP, the Asante Akim South lawmaker, Kwaku Asante Boateng, has issued a statement he says is aimed at clarifying the comments attributed to him.
“My attention has been drawn to recent press releases issued by both the National Secretariat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the Ashanti Regional Team of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, as well as certain media reports regarding comments I made during an interview on Adom TV.
“To ensure clarity and avoid distortions, I would like to clarify the statement made. During the interview, I mentioned that at the time of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s nomination as the Vice-Presidential Candidate, he was relatively new to the Party’s internal structures, a “stranger” only in the context of his limited prior involvement in the NPP’s grassroots operations.
“My point was that, despite this, the Party honoured him with a position of immense trust and responsibility, even though several long-serving and dedicated members also possessed the requisite competence and experience for the role,” his statement read.
“I wish to categorically and unequivocally refute the false and malicious claims suggesting that I described Dr Bawumia as a “slave” in the Party. Such claims are a deliberate distortion of my words and a gross misrepresentation of my intent.
“At no point did I use, imply, or endorse such language. My statement was contextual, focused on the circumstances surrounding his nomination, not on his person or his ethnicity.
Furthermore, I emphasized that at the time of his selection, the Party had many distinguished Northerners who had served with dedication and distinction, including Hon. Ambrose Dery, Hon. Malik Alhassan Yakubu, Hajia Alima Mahama, Alhaji Mustapha Iddris Ali, Prof. Kassim Kasanga, Ben Salifu, Prince Imoru Andani, Mohamed Salifu, Mogtari Sahanun, Boniface Abubakar Sadique, Boniface Agambila, and M. N. D. Jawula, among others,” the MP explained in his statement.
“These patriots had shown their unwavering support for the NPP’s values and had earned respect through years of loyalty and sacrifice. It is therefore disingenuous and unfortunate for anyone to suggest that my comments were an attack on Northerners or an attempt to sow division within the Party.
“On the contrary, my submission sought to highlight the importance of` loyalty, consistency, and meritocracy as guiding principles in the Party’s decision-making processes.
“I therefore urge all party members, supporters, and the general public to disregard the mischievous narrative being circulated by elements seeking to create disaffection and internal discord. My commitment to the New Patriotic Party remains unwavering, and my dedication to the ideals of unity, inclusivity, and progress remains resolute,” the Asante Akim South MP concluded.
