A stalwart of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwesi Ahwoi has apologised to the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and his running mate, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, regarding his remarks in a viral video.
During an event in Accra for Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, Mr. Ahwoi suggested that she should be ready for any scenario that could lead to her presidency.
His comments were met with criticism from some NDC members who interpreted them a mean that he did not expect Mahama to complete a potential four-year term.
On Sunday, March 24, Kwesi Ahwoi clarified in a statement that he had no intention of wishing harm upon the former President.
Acknowledging his error, he expressed regret over the misunderstanding caused by his comments.
“I sincerely regret the wrong impression that my comment has created. Indeed, it was not my intention, and never will it be my intention to pray that H.E. John Mahama does not serve his full four-year term when he wins the 2024 general elections.
“I concede that I misspoke on the occasion. I accept the criticisms in good faith, even though some of the criticisms arise out of a deliberate misrepresentation of my statement.
“I hereby render an unreserved and unqualified apology to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the leadership and rank and file of the great NDC.”
He urged the party’s supporters to move past the incident and support Mr. Mahama in the upcoming 2024 elections.
“Comrades and friends, let us put this unfortunate incident behind us and unite behind our flag-bearer, the visionary Nation Builder, to rescue our beloved country in the December 2024 elections.”
Below is the full statement by Kwesi Ahwoi
Kwesi Ahwoi writes:
I have taken notice of the unfortunate controversy that has arisen as a result of a comment I made at a reception organized last Thursday by the Churchstreet group of NDC faithful for Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate to our esteemed flagbearer, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
I sincerely regret the wrong impression that my comment has created. Indeed, it was not my intention, and never will it be my intention to pray that H.E. John Mahama does not serve his full four-year term when he wins the 2024 general elections.
I concede that I misspoke on the occasion. I accept the criticisms in good faith, even though some of the criticisms arise out of a deliberate misrepresentation of my statement.
Indeed, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang in response to my toast, pointed out the erroneous impression created by my statement and was categorical in asserting that she was certain that H.E. John Mahama will win the 2024 general elections and serve his full four-year term.
It is unfortunate that my statement appears to have taken the shine off what was otherwise a cheerful and light-hearted occasion.
I hereby render an unreserved and unqualified apology to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the leadership and rank and file of the great NDC.
Comrades and friends, let us put this unfortunate incident behind us and unite behind our flag-bearer, the visionary Nation Builder, to rescue our beloved country in the December 2024 elections.
SIGNED.
Kwesi Ahwoi