Dr. John Kingsley Krugu, the outgoing Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), founder of the Butt-Tis Buuri Scholarship Fund, and New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Zebilla Constituency in the 2024 general elections, has reflected on his campaign and its outcome, emphasizing a combination of determination, acceptance, and gratitude.
“I went into this election with the mindset that I’d do everything possible to win, but if I lost, I would thank God,” Dr. Krugu said.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Dr. Krugu explained that his defeat could not be attributed to a single factor but rather to a combination of external and internal challenges. He noted that, in any election, there are always individuals or groups working quietly to undermine a candidate’s efforts. Additionally, mistakes made during a campaign can alienate certain groups, potentially costing a candidate crucial support.
“Normally, no matter what you do, when you go into an election, there will be some people who may not be happy to see you become a Member of Parliament. So, such people would be working in the background to make sure you lose. As a candidate, you might also make mistakes during the campaign that anger people, and they might think, ‘Maybe if this guy wins, I won’t be part of the success story, so it’s better he loses,’” he remarked.
A significant factor that affected his campaign, Dr. Krugu said, was the escalating tensions in Bawku. The violence in the area led to the suspension of his campaign amid threats and acts of intimidation involving weapons. “In the end, it was not a competition anymore; it was something else,” he said.
Despite the difficulties, Dr. Krugu stated that his focus had always been on the peace and well-being of the people. He added that if his loss helped maintain peace in the region, it would be a greater accomplishment than a parliamentary seat. For him, public service is not about personal gain but a means to contribute to the community.
Dr. Krugu highlighted the impact of his efforts during his campaign, including the drilling of seven new boreholes in collaboration with the GNPC Foundation after the election, adding to a total of 97 boreholes completed in just three months. “Look at just contesting alone, the things I’ve done. I’m so happy. Even after losing, seven boreholes have been drilled. Nobody in that constituency, as a candidate, made that contribution,” he said proudly.
Reflecting on his motivations, Dr. Krugu shared that his work was driven by gratitude to God and a deep commitment to serving the people of Zebilla. “The things I do, I do them in appreciation to God because I know where I came from,” he concluded.
Dr. Krugu’s reflections underline his dedication to service and his belief in the importance of community development, even in the face of personal setbacks.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga