Ken Agyapong Speaks His Mind on Sahara Radio’s “Agenda”

The NPP Member of Parliament for Assin-North, Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Saturday, September 25 joined the panel of Agenda, political discussion program on Sahara Radio in Columbus Ohio. Among the range of political issues discussed were the purchase of his 8-billion-cedi Rolls-Royce (approximately $580,000), Ghana’s health insurance scheme, the STX affordable housing deal, and the future of presidential politics in Ghana.

Mr. Agyapong, responding to questions posted by Nana Ampem-Darko, the show’s host about the purchase of his Rolls-Royce, the politician responded in his characteristic unapologetic style saying, “I have done a lot for Ghana; I have built schools, created employment for thousands of people, supported flood victims in various parts of the country. What is wrong with 50th birthday gift to myself?” He explained that he is wealthy because he has applied himself to hard work and uses his public service salary to pay school fees for the needy. Mr. Agyapong will buy another Rolls-Royce if he so chooses, and will buy a jet at age 55.

On the issue of alleged tax evasion, he responded swiftly saying, “I don’t evade taxes. I pay my taxes, and I think the IRS officials who accuse me do not having their records right. I am waiting for them”. He added, “You’ve let me out my weapon (for my defense against the allegation).” He is building a website to showcase his contributions to Ghana’s development.

On Ghana’s health insurance scheme, he praised the visionary efforts of the Kuffour administration and sited many instances where it has improved the health care delivery system in the country. A contribution from Mr. Isaac Asamoah, a Claims Manager of New Juaben Municipal Health Insurance Scheme buttressed Mr. Agyapong’s assertion. As to why some Ghanaians do not participate in the health insurance scheme, Mr. Agyapong blamed it on foolishness on the part of such people. “When he or she pays money and does not get any immediate benefit, he or she does not think it’s worth the investment – until he or she is faced with the reality of illness.”

Regarding the STX affordable housing deal, Mr. Agyapong questioned the NDC government’s willingness to guarantee loans for foreign developers (as opposed to equally-able local developers), and cautioned that the affordable housing will end up going to the greedy politicians and their families, and not the people who really need it.

Also on the show, where Mr. Agyapong shared various views on the state of his party and the future of presidential politics in Ghana, were regular guests Mr. Erzuah Cudjoe, the NDC Ohio Chapter president, and Mr. Charles Ampong, a social commentator.