The General Secretary of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie also known as Sir John says the party is solidly behind beleaguered Assin North Member of Parliament, who is facing trial for treason felony, attempted genocide and terrorism act. The NPP scribe noted that Ken Agyapong’s ordeal has brought a new enthusiasm and courage to the party seeking to unseat the non-performing Mills-led administration in December. Sir John was reacting to comments by some political pundits and civil society that the NPP must sanction its Assin North MP for declaring ‘war’ in the country. They argued that the NPP could lose vital votes in the December polls if it continues to glorify and portray Mr. Agyapong as a hero. The Assin North MP was given a gallant welcome at the NPP Headquarters Thursday after spending three days in the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) custody for making inflammatory comments and declaring war on an Accra-based radio station, Oman FM. He was granted bail in the sum of GH¢200,000 with one surety and cautioned to be of good conduct. Speaking on Ekosii Sen programme Monday, Sir John said even though the NPP has disassociate itself from the intemperate language by the Assin North MP, the party would never renounce the membership of a firebrand like Ken Agyapong. He stated that the legislator has faithfully defended the party through thick and thin hence it would be a blunder on the part of the party leadership to disown him in difficult times. Sir John described as hypocritical the holier than thou attitude of some members of the ruling party who are calling for the head of the Assin North MP. The NPP scribe said Ken Agyapong, like the prodigal son, has been cautioned by the party to control his temper when provoked and use legitimate means to get his grievances addressed. “The NPP needs a courageous person like Ken to motivate party members to defend themselves when their rights are abused,” he added. Sir John said Ken Agyapong’s opponents would be perpetually disappointed since the NPP has no intention to throw him out of the party. In a quick rebuttal, a member of the NDC, Kakra Essamuah who was a panelist on the programme said the NPP would be forever tainted if it maintains Ken Agyapong in the party. He warned that “if you [NPP] keep such a character in your fold, the people of Ghana would pass their judgment in 2012”. Kakra Essumuah said the “the unprecedented, violent and animalistic comment by Ken Agyapong disqualifies him as an honourable member of Ghana’s Parliament".