In a surprising turn of events, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Benard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as ‘Chairman Wontumi,’ issued a stern warning to Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, an aspiring NPP flagbearer. The chairman’s caution comes amid escalating tensions and disagreements within the party. In a press conference held on October 4, 2023, in Kumasi, Chairman Wontumi vowed to take legal action against Kennedy Agyapong should he continue making threats and casting insinuations.
A History of Discord
The rift between Chairman Wontumi and Hon. Kennedy Agyapong stems from a series of allegations made by the latter. Agyapong, who serves as the Assin Central Member of Parliament, accused Chairman Wontumi and Vice President Dr. Bawumia of actively undermining and destabilizing the NPP. These allegations were made during a massive rally at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi.
Threats and Consequences
Chairman Wontumi, in his press conference, wasted no time in addressing these allegations. He vehemently denied any wrongdoing and challenged Agyapong to provide evidence to support his claims. In a rather bold move, Chairman Wontumi offered to personally assess any evidence presented by Agyapong and engage in reconciliatory discussions if necessary.
However, the most striking part of Chairman Wontumi’s warning was his reference to the tragic assassination of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale in 2019. He drew a direct line between Agyapong’s threats and the untimely demise of Suale, insinuating that similar threats could have dire consequences.
A Plea for Unity
Despite the escalating tension, Chairman Wontumi emphasized his commitment to unity within the NPP. He criticized Agyapong for not engaging with party leadership during his visit to Kumasi and for launching verbal attacks against key party figures, including the Regional Minister and Education Minister.
A Stern Warning
Chairman Wontumi concluded his address by reiterating his reluctance to engage in personal insults or attacks against Agyapong. Instead, he warned that any further threats from Agyapong would result in his arrest. He reminded Agyapong of the consequences that have followed some of his previous threats and urged him to reconsider his approach.
In what appears to be an attempt to de-escalate the situation, Chairman Wontumi maintained that he would not engage in insults but would take legal action to protect his integrity and the party’s interests.
Conclusion
The NPP finds itself at a crossroads as internal tensions threaten to destabilize the party. The caution issued by Chairman Wontumi to Hon. Kennedy Agyapong underscores the gravity of the situation. It remains to be seen whether this warning will lead to a resolution of the disputes or further intensify the rift within the party.
FAQs
- What led to the conflict between Chairman Wontumi and Hon. Kennedy Agyapong? The conflict arose from allegations made by Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, accusing Chairman Wontumi and Vice President Dr. Bawumia of undermining the NPP.
- Why did Chairman Wontumi reference the assassination of Ahmed Suale in his warning? Chairman Wontumi suggested a link between Agyapong’s threats and the tragic death of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale in 2019, highlighting the potential consequences of such threats.
- What does Chairman Wontumi hope to achieve by issuing this warning? Chairman Wontumi aims to deter Hon. Kennedy Agyapong from making further threats and casting insinuations. He also seeks to protect his integrity and that of the NPP.
- How is this conflict affecting the NPP as a party? The conflict has the potential to destabilize the NPP as internal tensions rise. The party faces the challenge of maintaining unity in the face of these disputes.
- What is the future outlook for the NPP in light of this conflict? The future of the NPP remains uncertain, as it depends on how both parties involved choose to address and resolve their differences.
Source: purefmonline.com
