Stop turning national tragedies into politics – Kennedy Agyapong

Former Assin Central MP and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has criticised what he described as the growing politicisation of sensitive national matters.

The former lawmaker urged the leaders across the political divide to put Ghana’s interests first.

Speaking in an interview on Oman FM, later shared on his Facebook page, Mr Agyapong said the recent military helicopter crash, which claimed eight lives, should serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of partisanship in matters of national importance.

“This tragic incident should unite us as a nation,” he said. “Instead, we are witnessing needless political point-scoring that continues to tear us apart.”

The outspoken politician revisited the controversy surrounding the proposed purchase of a new presidential jet under the Akufo-Addo administration, a debate that triggered fierce opposition in Parliament. He accused North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, of leading what he described as a campaign of “needless politicisation” against the plan.

According to Mr Agyapong, the criticism ignored the economic and strategic benefits of securing a dedicated presidential aircraft. He argued that the cost of chartering luxury flights for presidential travels continues to drain state resources and undermines long-term planning.

“In the bigger picture, acquiring a fit-for-purpose presidential jet is far more economical than constantly spending on chartered flights,” he explained, adding that the focus should shift toward the investment and diplomatic opportunities created by presidential travels.

Mr Agyapong further cautioned his colleagues across the political spectrum to resist the temptation of fuelling propaganda and populism at the expense of Ghana’s development.

“As politicians, we must rise above propaganda and think of the country first,” he stressed. “Our energy should go into policies and decisions that move Ghana forward, not battles that divide us.”