The office of the Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has vehemently denied accusations of engaging in tribal and religious politics.
The denial follows statements made by Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the MP for Assin North and a Presidential hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
At a recent rally in Kumasi, Mr. Agyapong accused the Majority Leader of resorting to ‘tribal and religious politics’ while actively campaigning for the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumiah.
The Majority Leader’s office, in a statement on Monday, emphasized Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu’s commitment to truthfulness, pragmatism, and realism.
“The character trait of Hon Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu is truthfulness, pragmatism, and realism, and these have always guided his statements, discussions, and conversations.”
“His discourses are well reasoned; not philippic, in other words, not statements that bitterly attack other persons; or petulant, that is, ill-tempered or peevish; or populist,” the statement read, highlighting his commitment to reasoned discourse rather than personal attacks.
The statement also addressed Mr. Agyapong’s allegations of attempts to ‘hijack the party,’ asserting that the Majority Leader, along with the National Executive Committee and National Council, upheld the party’s constitution against attempts to set aside its provisions.
Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu denied any involvement in intimidating or collapsing the party and encouraged Mr. Agyapong to provide evidence if such claims existed.
The statement praised Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumiah’s peaceful demeanor and commitment to unity within the party.
“Dr. Mahamudu Bawumiah is a lamb who has exhibited long-suffering and preaches peace,” the statement noted, emphasizing his track record, experience, and vision to reposition the party and the economy.
The Majority Leader, aware of the fragility of the NPP Majority Caucus in Parliament, urged party members to maintain unity and civility throughout the leadership contest.
“Nothing should be done or encouraged that has the potential to impede or forestall unity within the rank and file of the party, after November 4, 2023,” the statement emphasized.