‘The worst has happened’ – Ken Agyapong concedes defeat
New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has acknowledged the outcome of the party’s presidential primary, saying he had prepared himself for a win or a defeat.
Results so far show former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the lead with over 55%, with Mr Agyapong and three other contenders, including Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Yw Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyepong, trailing.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, January 31, Mr Agyapong told supporters, “I am a veteran politician, so I know. I have gone through several defeats, so I cushion myself and expected the worst, and the worst has happened, but the worst doesn’t mean that is the end of life.
“So keep faith alive and be happy with the outcome. Who knows what will happen tomorrow…The delegates have spoken, and we have to take it. We don’t know what is in store for us tomorrow.”
He thanked his campaign team for their efforts and encouraged them to remain positive.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Team Ken for the wonderful work you’ve done. We all admit we worked hard, but God’s time is the best. He knows what is good for us. I know most of you are dejected; you have to keep your spirit up because once we have life, we have everything. I have taken it coolly because in politics you can win, you can lose,” he said.
Agyapong also called for unity within the party, urging his supporters to avoid divisive statements.
“Do not use this against anybody in the party. Once they have decided, let’s all come together as party members and work together. Don’t say that ‘no Ken, no vote.’ If it had been Ken, what would other contestants’ supporters have said? So ‘no Ken, no votes’ should be out. Let’s come together as one people,” he added.
He concluded by promising to formally recognize the contributions of his team at a later time.
“So, especially Team Ken, the good works that you’ve done, I want to show my appreciation, and at an appropriate time we will meet and dine together,” Agyapong added.
