Andy Appiah-Kubi, the now-former Member of Parliament (MP) for Asante Akim North, has opened up about his defeat in the 2024 general elections. The veteran politician attributes his loss to his outspoken stance on key national issues, which he believes made him a target for criticism and opposition.
In a closely watched parliamentary contest, Appiah-Kubi was defeated by an Independent Candidate, Ohene Kwame Frimpong. Frimpong secured a commanding 26,926 votes compared to Appiah-Kubi’s 8,933. The result marked a significant shift in the constituency, previously considered a stronghold of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking during an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News with host Richard Sky, Appiah-Kubi expressed no regrets over his advocacy, which had often put him at odds with party leadership and key government figures. The former MP had been an outspoken critic of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, accusing him of economic mismanagement and conflict of interest. His persistent calls for Ofori-Atta's dismissal gained national attention, though they were met with resistance within the ruling NPP.
"In Asante Akim, I lost the seat. People voted, and they voted against my candidature. They had a preference and chose somebody else. I completely accept the results of the process," Appiah-Kubi stated. "I was a target through my advocacy, but I don’t regret doing that. I’m happy that the public listened to our message at the time. If I became a casualty of my advocacy, I can still hold my head high."
Reflecting on his political journey, Appiah-Kubi announced that he would be stepping away from politics permanently. After serving in public office and championing causes he believed in, he feels it is time to pivot to his professional roots.
"I will retire to my legal practice. This marks the end of my political career. I will not seek a return to politics," he declared, emphasizing his contentment with the decision.
Despite his exit, Appiah-Kubi urged the NPP to conduct an introspective review of its performance in the 2024 elections. The party suffered significant losses, with several parliamentary seats shifting to opposition candidates and independents. He believes a thorough audit is necessary to understand the underlying causes of this downturn and to rebuild the party’s appeal.
Asante Akim North, once a bastion of NPP loyalty, now faces a new political era under the representation of Ohene Kwame Frimpong. The shift underscores a growing trend in Ghanaian politics, where voters are increasingly demanding accountability and diversity in representation.
Appiah-Kubi’s defeat has also sparked broader discussions within the NPP about the role of dissenting voices and internal criticism. While some see his loss as a cautionary tale, others argue that his principled stance reflects the need for bold leadership willing to address uncomfortable truths.
Throughout his career, Appiah-Kubi earned a reputation as a fierce advocate for transparency and good governance. His critiques of the government’s economic policies, though controversial, resonated with many Ghanaians who were grappling with high inflation, unemployment, and a depreciating currency.
His exit from politics marks the end of an era for Asante Akim North but leaves behind a legacy of courage and conviction. For Appiah-Kubi, the road ahead is clear: a return to his legal practice, where he hopes to continue contributing to society in a different capacity.
As Ghanaians reflect on the 2024 elections, the story of Andy Appiah-Kubi serves as a reminder of the complexities of political life. Advocacy, while essential, often comes at a personal and professional cost. However, as Appiah-Kubi himself noted, standing up for what one believes in is always worth the price.
The NPP, on its part, faces the daunting task of rebuilding and reconnecting with its base. Whether the lessons of 2024 will lead to a stronger, more united party remains to be seen, but the call for introspection and reform has never been louder.
With the dust settling on a fiercely contested election, Andy Appiah-Kubi’s reflections offer valuable insights into the sacrifices and challenges of public service. His legacy as a principled politician will undoubtedly spark debates and inspire future leaders to prioritize integrity, even in the face of adversity.
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