Former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, says his desire to see Ghana succeed is the motivation to contest the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s flagbearership race. 

According to him, he is passionate about Ghana. 

Announcing his campaign bid at UPSA in Accra on Monday, March 13, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto said should he win the NPP contest and subsequently the general election, the economy and agriculture will be his main priorities. 

The former Kwadaso MP said, the efficient management of these two sectors will engender astronomical economic growth for the country. 

“I’m passionate to serve my mother Ghana with all that is within me, even if it costs me an arm and a leg. For those who know me, I’m known to be confident, very passionate and have very strong views on many subjects,” he said. 

The former Minister also dispelled criticism that he is not friendly.  

He said people mistake his self confidence and strong views on issues for arrogance. However, he is an affable person. 

“I have often been perceived as arrogant and too serious, but that is far from the reality. In fact, I’m a very friendly person, very open,” he insisted. 

Already, several bigwigs in the party including the former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, and Kwabena Agyapong, a former General Secretary etc have declared their intentions to seek the party’s mandate to lead it as flagbearer for the 2024 election. 

Even though, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has not officially declared his candidacy, party folks and political analysts say it is only a matter of time when he will declare his interest.  

But Dr Owusu Afryie Akoto believes he is the best candidate for the party.