Accra: Dr Arthur Kennedy, a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized the party's decision to expel former Environment Minister Prof Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, labeling the move as misguided and potentially damaging to the party's cohesion.
According to Ghana Web, the NPP initiated formal expulsion proceedings against Prof Frimpong Boateng following his controversial interview, in which he referred to the party as a 'fake party' and claimed that the 2023 presidential primary was manipulated to favor Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. The party has denied these accusations, citing constitutional grounds for starting the expulsion process.
In response, Dr Kennedy characterized the interview as being rooted in patriotism and vision, although he acknowledged that Prof Frimpong Boateng's language could have been more carefully chosen. He emphasized that the concerns raised about the party's direction were valid and echoed similar allegations made by other party members, including Kennedy Agyapong. Dr Kennedy urged the NPP to prioritize reconciliation over punitive measures.
Dr Kennedy argued that punitive actions such as expulsions would not attract back the 1.2 million followers who voted for John Mahama, advocating instead for humility and reconciliation. He praised Prof Frimpong Boateng as a national treasure and suggested that the party should embrace his association rather than sever it.
He further reflected on historical figures who criticized their parties before leading them, suggesting that such criticism could be a precursor to transformative leadership. Dr Kennedy called for the NPP to foster tolerance and inclusion, aiming to build unity within the party.