Opinions of Sunday, 25 August 2013

Columnist: Amoabin, Kofi

Arthur Kennedy Has No Political Strategy

Dr. Arthur Kennedy’s saltatory remarks from Sir John’s

contempt charges to NPP mantra “all die be die” shows Dr. Kennedy lacks

political strategy and qualifies as one of the detractors within NPP.



As the political parties prepare for the Supreme Court

verdict on the challenge to the Dec 2012 presidential elections, party members

moving in unison and emphasizing coherent political themes show maturity and

ability to lead. And, SC gets a clear signal that NPP leadership is morally and

spiritually behind the petition.



The timing of Arthur K's comments reveals a glaring vendetta

against Nana Akufo-Addo at this critical moment of awaiting the decision of the

court. After August 29, Arthur K’s

attacks on Nana Akufo-Addo will not amount to much.



What is Arthur K’s definition of “all die be die”.



Not Sure.



Nana Akufo-Addo's commitment to the rule of law is

exemplified by his legal career and willingness to file a petition to challenge

Afari Gyan's election declaration, not to mention his prior declaration to

accept the decision of the SC verdict. Nana Addo’s democratic bona fides are,

indeed, unparalleled in Africa, where aggrieved political parties have resorted

to political violence in challenging election results. To be sure, his conduct

is worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize.



It is unfortunate that Arthur K imputes recklessness to Nana

Addo and maligns the character of the NPP presidential candidate.

May be “all die be die” is misunderstood.

“All die be die”

mantra is a call for vigilance, accountability and self-defense against the

powers of the state. A call on all Ghanaians to insist on their rights, demand

a fair share of the national pie and hold the three branches of our

government responsible.



This mantra sustained Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP when Dr.

Afari Gyan told NPP to go to court. Indeed, Dr. Afari-Gyan’s claptrap was

watched on TV and most Ghanaians agree Afari-Gyan botched and failed in

conducting a fair election in Dec 2012.



On the other hand, Arthur K’s strategy after his return in

2006 to pursue his political career did not produce remarkable results.

After Arthur K paid his fees to run in the NPP presidential

primary, he struggled to get his supporters to Tamale for his campaign launch.

Eventually, Arthur K got one vote in the NPP presidential

primary. Still, Nana Akufo-Addo threw

Arthur K a lifeline, a prestigious campaign position. Is Arthur K an ingrate?

The answer is best left to NPP members to debate or answer.

Next Arthur K sought a seat in parliament, but, here again,

the doctor was rejected by his own constituents.

After bruises at the national and constituency levels,

Arthur K went back to medicine.

Dr. Arthur Kennedy, do not feel shamefaced and render an

unqualified apology to Nana Akufo-Addo.

Kofi Amoabin, Accra