⁶Veteran lawmaker Kennedy Agyapong has voiced out serious concern over what he describes as the growing financial dominance of Minister Bryan Acheampong within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), warning that the development poses a threat to the party’s internal democracy. The outspoken Member of Parliament for Assin Central cautioned that Acheampong’s vast financial resources appear to be giving him an undue advantage in mobilizing support ahead of upcoming internal party primaries.
Agyapong lamented that the use of money as the main determinant of political success is overshadowing the values of competence, integrity, and service that the NPP was founded upon. According to him, such trends could distort the will of the grassroots and undermine confidence in the party’s democratic structures. “I am worried that money is becoming the determinant of political success rather than competence, integrity, or service to the party,” he said, adding that the situation sends the wrong message to party members and the general public.
The Assin Central MP, known for his candidness and influence within the NPP, argued that Acheampong’s growing financial influence is reshaping political alliances and perceptions, creating an uneven playing field for other aspirants. He warned that this imbalance could alienate genuine grassroots participation and erode the internal democracy the NPP has long prided itself on. “Politics in the NPP should be about ideas, loyalty, and service — not who can distribute the most resources or fund flashy campaigns,” he emphasized.
Bryan Acheampong, a seasoned politician who has served in several ministerial roles, has in recent months increased his presence across constituencies by supporting local initiatives, sponsoring party events, and providing campaign logistics. While such actions are permitted within party structures, critics argue that the scale of his spending could intimidate smaller candidates who lack similar resources. Political observers note that Ghana’s internal party elections have often been influenced by financial capability, but Agyapong’s remarks draw attention to the growing imbalance between financial strength and merit-based leadership selection.
Supporters of Acheampong, however, defend his actions, insisting that his financial contributions are strengthening the party rather than manipulating its internal processes. They maintain that his investments in party structures and grassroots activities reflect dedication and commitment to ensuring the NPP’s success. Nonetheless, Agyapong insists that party authorities must remain vigilant to prevent monetary power from becoming the main tool for political advancement. He called for mechanisms to ensure fairness and transparency in the selection process, reminding members that the NPP’s legacy is built on principles of service, integrity, and accountability.
As the NPP prepares for crucial regional and national leadership contests, Agyapong’s warning has sparked renewed debate over the role of money in party politics. Many within the party see his comments as a timely reminder that while resources are vital for mobilization, they should not override the party’s values or compromise its democratic spirit. The unfolding tension between financial clout and grassroots credibility is expected to shape both the narrative and the outcomes of the NPP’s internal elections in the months ahead.
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From Opera New
