Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has voiced deep disappointment over what he describes as neglect and exclusion by the very party he once led to a historic two-term victory.

In a reflective conversation with Abetifi MP and flagbearer hopeful Bryan Acheampong, the former President opened up about his growing sense of marginalization within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

“If this party still has elders… I am one,” Kufuor asserted.

He lamented the lack of engagement from the current party leadership, stating that despite his contributions and institutional memory, he is now being kept in the dark about key developments.

“Have I deteriorated to the point where, after being fed, I’d claim I haven’t eaten? No—I haven’t reached that stage yet. My mind and memory are intact,” he said firmly.

Recounting the NPP’s journey from its ideological roots in the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) through decades of political adversity, Kufuor recalled how the party rose steadily until its defining victory in the year 2000—a turning point in Ghana’s democratic trajectory.

“I’ve been quiet, but make no mistake, I’ve been watching. Closely,” he said. “The least the party can do… is keep me informed. Let me hear what’s happening.”

The statesman expressed bewilderment at his treatment by the party, underscoring the emotional weight of his exclusion.

“And now… I’m being sidelined? Ignored? I don’t understand it. I really don’t.”

President Kufuor, who governed Ghana from 2001 to 2009, is widely credited with strengthening democratic institutions and advancing economic reforms.

His comments are likely to spark debate within the NPP over how the party engages with its founding leaders and elder statesmen.