Arthur K's presidential dream still alive

Arthur Kobina Kennedy, one of the presidential aspirants in the just ended congress of the ruling New Patriotic Party says his dream of becoming a president is still alive, though it is temporarily on hold following the decision of the delegates at the Congress to anoint Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the party's flagbearer in the December election.

According to him, what is more important to him is victory for the party come December 8 and the delegates have made a decision worthy of the tradition that upholds plurality and multi-party democracy.

According to him, the delegates have reaffirmed that Nana Akufo-Addo is the best person to lead the party into the epoch-making elections.

In a statement outlining his political future (see Today's picks) Dr Kennedy, who had the least of votes among the 17 candidates (1) said in spite of the results of the election he has no qualms with the delegates for failing to give him the nod to lead the party in the December elections, rather he has a lot admiration for them for their commitment to the party and its work.

He said the very process of the nomination, while revealing some imperfections, has highlighted the strength of the NPP compared to the largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress.

"The difference between the NDC and the NPP is that in the NDC, the "SWEDRU DECLARATION" has produced three nominations for Professor Mills, while the NPP once again made up its mind without undue influence by any one person. Ultimately, the NPP's democratic tendencies coupled with its commitment to newness and renewal make it the best hope for Ghana?s future".

Dr Kennedy, who could not hide his admiration for Nana Akufo-Addo said he is the most experienced to lead the party to victory. "Our nominee, Nana Akufo-Addo knows the history, the ideals and tendencies of the party, better than perhaps any member of the Danquah-Busia tradition. Therefore, with a re-invigorated NPP behind him, he gives our nation the best chance and the surest hands for building on President Kufuor?s impressive legacy.

"Since his nomination, Nana has put on display his impressive skills as a diplomat and a unifier. He has reached out to other aspirants and all segments of our party and signaled that he will be a visionary President".

"Therefore, as he seeks a mandate from Ghanaians over the next year, for our party and for himself, I shall support him, without reservation, in any manner possible. He represents the best hope of reformers for our party and our country", he added.

On his political future he said he has not given up hope so far as his ideals still stand firm and the congress has rather strengthened his resolve to address issues confronting the country. "Thus my failure today may some day make me a better President. Of course, there are also others who made significant contributions to their nation?s politics without winning ultimate political power," he pointed out.