- Former Assin Central MP and NPP flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong says the recent military helicopter crash should serve as a wake-up call for Ghanaians to end needless partisanship. In a Facebook post, he condemned what he described as the exploitation of sensitive national debates for political gain, citing the controversy over a proposed presidential jet acquisition. He accused MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa of spearheading “unwarranted politicisation” on the matter and urged politicians to put Ghana’s long-term interest above propaganda.
Kennedy Agyapong: Helicopter Crash a Wake-Up Call to End Politicisation
NPP flagbearer hopeful and former Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has urged political leaders to end what he described as the “unnecessary politicisation” of sensitive national issues, following the recent military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
In a Facebook post, Mr. Agyapong expressed concern over how tragic national events and policy debates are often exploited for partisan gain. He warned that such conduct undermines Ghana’s progress and unity.
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“The recent helicopter crash that claimed eight precious lives should be a wake-up call for us all on the extent to which unnecessary partisanship is destroying our country.”
— Kennedy Ohene Agyapong
Presidential Jet Controversy
Mr. Agyapong cited the fierce opposition in Parliament against the proposed acquisition of a new presidential jet under the Akufo-Addo administration as an example of misplaced politicisation.
He accused North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, of spearheading a campaign of “unwarranted politicisation” over the matter. According to him, it was ironic that the parliamentary delegation tasked with reviewing the acquisition was chaired by James Agalga, the NDC’s Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee.
“For the sake of political expedience, Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa vehemently opposed the acquisition and engaged in unfortunate banter. He must bow his head in shame and apologise for his disservice to our dear country,” Agyapong charged.
Economic Argument
The businessman-turned-politician argued that acquiring a fit-for-purpose presidential aircraft would prove more economically prudent than the continuous use of costly chartered flights for presidential travels.
“In the long term, the acquisition of a fit-for-purpose presidential jet is economically prudent compared to the expenditure incurred on presidential travels devoid of the same,” he said.
He also highlighted the diplomatic and investment benefits that presidential travels can generate, insisting that debates should focus on Ghana’s long-term gains rather than short-term partisan rhetoric.
Warning Against Populism
Agyapong cautioned his fellow politicians against fueling populism and propaganda at the expense of national development.
“As politicians, we must be wary of the adverse impact of populism and propaganda on our national interest. Let’s rather pursue initiatives that would benefit the country,” he concluded.
