The Deputy Upper East Regional Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Andrew Atariwini, has described the statement from former Deputy Finance Minister Kwaku Kwarteng as “a betrayal” on the political front.
Mr. Kwarteng likened the government’s borrowing to a Ponzi scheme and criticized the existing procurement regime.
Mr. Atariwini said Mr. Kwarteng’s suggestion that the NPP needs to make certain changes to achieve a successful electoral outcome and break the eight-year cycle should have been addressed within the party rather than made public. “On the political front, I think he has betrayed his party, regardless of how sound some of his arguments may appear. I believe these issues should have been discussed in private,” he said.
He pointed out that, as a senior party member, Mr. Kwarteng had many opportunities to raise his concerns directly with party leaders. “The Honourable Kweku Kwarteng is a highly placed individual in our party’s structure and has access to almost every office in this country if he wanted to address these concerns,” he added.
Mr. Atariwini also highlighted that the party’s manifesto, which is set to be released soon, will address many of the issues raised. “Even if he feels his concerns have not been addressed, our manifesto has not yet been released,” he said, emphasizing that while the NPP strives for improvement, perfection cannot be achieved overnight. “Things can’t change overnight.”
He urged Mr. Kwarteng to provide more concrete evidence and detailed information to support his criticisms. “You can’t make such statements without providing evidence. He should come with more detailed information,” he added.
Despite the criticism, Mr. Atariwini appreciated Mr. Kwarteng’s engagement and assured that the party would consider his views. “However, we may review it not just as a member of our party but as a concerned Ghanaian airing his concerns. Certainly, the government will deal with it appropriately,” he said. “We appreciate all that he has said. He’s a concerned Ghanaian,” he added.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Ghana
