A prominent Ghanaian educationist has publicly endorsed the leadership credentials of NPP stalwart Paul Awentami Afoko, citing decades of personal knowledge of his character and integrity, as Afoko formally informs the party of his intention to contest the National Chairman position.
Robert Ajene, former headmaster of Bawku Secondary School, said he first encountered Afoko in the 1960s when he admitted him into Form 1.
Speaking from his experience as Afoko’s headmaster, Ajene said he witnessed the qualities that set him apart even as a young student.“I bear witness to his leadership qualities because I admitted him to Bawku Secondary School, and there were times he stayed with me,” Ajene said. “I am bearing testimony to his distinguished integrity, an integrity that can be of great help to the NPP.”
Mr Ajene’s endorsement comes as Afoko, a native of the Upper East Region, officially informs the NPP Council of Elders, Regional Executives, and Patrons of his intention to contest for the NPP National Chairman position.
According to Ajene, Afoko is also seeking the wise counsel of the party’s elders and leadership as he prepares for the contest. Ajene argued that the NPP has the political potential to return to power, but only if the party prioritizes unity over division.
“NPP has the potential, and the only way to harness that potential is through unity,” he said. “Let’s get our acts together.”
Looking ahead to the 2028 elections, he stressed that the party’s biggest challenge has been self-inflicted and can be resolved through tolerance and a stronger democratic culture.
“The biggest problem is unity,” Mr Ajene said. “We need a large heart of tolerance in democracy. The challenges were self-inflicted, and we know them one by one.
Ajene’s comments add to growing calls within the NPP for reconciliation and internal cohesion as the party prepares for its next electoral cycle. For him, Afoko represents the kind of leadership grounded in integrity and service that can help rebuild trust and broaden the party’s base.
