Ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2024, seasoned politician, lawyer, and former Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Irene Naa Torshie Addo, has issued a firm and fearless response to critics who claim her stewardship contributed to the NPP’s performance in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking during an engagement with media practitioners in Kumasi, the former MP for Tema West described the allegations,spearheaded by Greater Accra Regional Chairman Divine and other opposing voices within the party,as baseless, unfair, and politically calculated by individuals who fear the growing influence of Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong’s movement ahead of the primaries.
According to her, the attempt to scapegoat her is not only misleading but exposes a deliberate agenda to tarnish her reputation simply because she has openly and boldly declared her support for Kennedy Agyapong.
She clarified that the DACF Administrator had no authority whatsoever to approve or release Common Fund allocations.
“The power to approve and release the District Assemblies Common Fund was solely in the hands of the then Finance Minister, Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta, and the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who chaired the Economic Management Team—not the administrator,” she emphasized.
Naa Torshie added that she executed her mandate with professionalism, integrity, and transparency,qualities that earned her commendation from former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
She questioned why her critics continue to ignore the actual officials responsible for fund releases.
“Why blame me when Hon. Ken Ofori-Atta and Dr. Bawumia were responsible for fund releases? Is it because I openly support Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong? Or is it simply because I am a woman?” she queried.
She noted that the coordinated attacks against her prove only one thing: Kennedy Agyapong’s message is gaining powerful momentum at the grassroots, and his rising popularity is threatening those who fear change within the party.
Reinforcing her call to delegates, Naa Torshie praised Kennedy Agyapong as the boldest, most disciplined, and most transparent candidate in the race, adding that he embodies the strength and sincerity the NPP urgently needs.
She reaffirmed her unwavering loyalty to the party and to her preferred candidate:
“I will stand firm, just like the late Obaa Hemaa Yaa Asantewaa of Ejisu, until the NPP and Ghanaians begin to enjoy the transformational policies Kennedy Agyapong will bring as flagbearer and future President of Ghana, God willing.”
Naa Torshie urged delegates to stand for truth, courage, and renewal by choosing a leader capable of restoring confidence in the party and reconnecting with the ordinary Ghanaian.
“This election is bigger than internal politics,it is about the future of our party. Kennedy Agyapong represents courage, fairness, job creation, and the new energy the NPP needs to win back the hearts of the people.”
