Former Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Alex Ampaabeng, has expressed firm belief in the leadership qualities and economic insight of Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, describing him as the ideal candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general elections. Dr. Ampaabeng praised the maverick politician and successful businessman as a pragmatic leader who has the potential to address Ghana’s deepening unemployment crisis, particularly among the youth.
In an exclusive interview aired on EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, Dr. Ampaabeng stated that the country is at a critical point in its development trajectory where traditional political approaches are no longer enough. According to him, Ghana needs a leader who not only understands the intricacies of politics but also brings hands-on experience in enterprise development, wealth creation, and job generation.
“Youth unemployment is not just a statistic; it’s a national emergency. It’s one of the most pressing challenges facing our country right now,” Dr. Ampaabeng said during the interview. “We need a bold, visionary, and business-savvy leader to reverse this trend — and Kennedy Agyapong fits that bill perfectly.”
Dr. Ampaabeng emphasized that individuals with a strong business background have historically proven to be capable of turning around national economies. He pointed to prominent global figures such as Donald Trump in the United States, Silvio Berlusconi in Italy, and Thaksin Shinawatra in Thailand — all of whom transitioned from successful business careers to national leadership roles — as examples of how entrepreneurial thinking can make a meaningful impact in politics.
“Kennedy Agyapong is the Berlusconi, the Trump, the Thaksin that Ghana needs,” he declared. “He has built his wealth through hard work, created employment for thousands of Ghanaians, and understands how to take risks and manage them. That kind of experience is exactly what Ghana’s economy needs at this time.”
Dr. Ampaabeng also stressed that his support for Kennedy Agyapong should not be viewed through the lens of political rivalry or disloyalty to other figures within the NPP, particularly Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Rather, he insisted that his endorsement stems from feedback he has received from ordinary Ghanaians at the grassroots level who are yearning for a transformative leader who can bring tangible results.
“This is not about betrayal. I respect Dr. Bawumia and his service to the country,” he said. “But the feedback I’m receiving from the ground is clear — people are looking for someone who represents action, not just talk. They believe Kennedy Agyapong has what it takes to deliver.”
Dr. Ampaabeng further explained that Kennedy Agyapong’s candidacy is not built on populism but on a solid track record of private sector success, social impact, and consistent advocacy for youth empowerment and national development.
“Kennedy is not new to the people. He has invested in education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship initiatives. He speaks directly to the needs of the youth and working class. His message resonates because it’s rooted in action, not promises,” he stated.
The endorsement from Dr. Ampaabeng, who served in one of the most sensitive portfolios in government, is considered a significant boost for Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign ahead of the NPP’s internal elections, slated for January 31, 2026. His backing marks one of the highest-profile endorsements Agyapong has received so far, potentially signalling a shift in momentum as the party begins to shape its post-2024 leadership narrative.
As the nation continues to grapple with economic challenges, inflation, and job scarcity, Dr. Ampaabeng believes now is the time for bold decisions.
“Ghana cannot afford to gamble with its future. We need a leader who understands how to turn vision into jobs — someone who can move from political rhetoric to economic results,” he concluded. “And I believe the time is right for Kennedy Agyapong.”
Dr. Ampaabeng’s comments are likely to stir discussions across political and social circles as the NPP navigates the complexities of its succession planning and prepares to present a candidate capable of winning public trust and driving real change in the next election cycle.
STORY BY: KENNEDY NTI AMPONSAH
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
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