A leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwesi Ahwoi, has rendered an apology following a controversial remark made at a reception organized for Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate to NDC’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama.
The former Interior Minister, expressed regret over the unintended implications of his statement, clarifying that it was never his intention to cast doubt on Mahama’s potential presidency if elected in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
“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.”
The apology comes after Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang herself addressed Ahwoi’s comment during the event, emphasizing her confidence in Mahama’s victory and commitment to serving a full term if elected.
Ahwoi’s statement, although made in a light-hearted context, garnered significant attention and overshadowed the otherwise festive atmosphere of the occasion.
He urged the party’s supporters to move past the incident and support Mr. Mahama in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Below is the full Statement;
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 faithfuls 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
