Leadership Selection Should Be Based on Ability, Not Identity – Kufuor on Democracy
Kufuor Urges NPP to Prioritize Competence Over Tribal, Religious, or Gender Bias in Leadership
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Ghana’s political class to place competence above tribal, religious, or gender considerations when selecting leaders. He emphasized that democratic leadership must be grounded in meritocracy and the shared values of common humanity.
Speaking at the official launch of the NPP’s Patriotic Institute on Wednesday, June 25, Mr. Kufuor cautioned against the growing trend of identity-based politics, warning that such divisions weaken democracy and hinder national development.
“We are a democratic party and we uphold common humanity,” he stated. “In a democracy, leadership selection should not be based on tribe, religion, or gender, but on the individual’s merit. It is one man, one vote, and if we seek to win power, we must choose a candidate who appeals broadly to the Ghanaian electorate.”
His comments come in the wake of the NPP’s recent announcement that it will select its 2028 flagbearer on January 31 next year—a development that has triggered early campaigning and reports of internal rivalries.
The former President urged party members to refrain from divisive rhetoric and personal attacks, stressing that such behavior only strengthens their political opponents. “When we begin to speak in ways that reflect tribal or religious bias, we hand our critics the tools they need to attack us,” he warned.
Kufuor further emphasized that leadership aspirants must be judged by their ability to address real issues and deliver results that benefit all Ghanaians. He urged the party to rally around values that promote truth, unity, competence, and national development rather than identity-based politics.
His message is seen as a timely reminder for the NPP as it prepares for the next electoral cycle. Political analysts believe Kufuor’s call for merit-based leadership could help guide the party toward a more inclusive and effective approach in selecting its future leaders.
As Ghana’s democratic journey continues, Kufuor’s remarks serve as a powerful call for all political stakeholders to rise above parochial interests and work collectively toward a stronger, united nation.
