Former Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu, has responded to media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah over comments questioning his decision to contest for the position of Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Dr Kokofu dismissed the remarks, urging Okatakyie Afrifa to have taken more time to reflect before making such comments about his political ambitions.

Speaking in an interview on Angel FM on August 6, 2026, Dr Kokofu questioned claims by Okatakyie Afrifa that he appears uncertain about his political direction and could contest any available position, including that of an Assembly Member.

"Let me respond to Okatakyie Afrifa. He should have taken his time and thought about certain things. He said that if another nomination is opened for Assembly Members, I would go and contest again. Really?" he said.

Dr Kokofu explained that he had previously served as an Assembly Member for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), adding that he has a track record in public service.

"Tell him I have already become an Assembly Member before at the KMA. I have records there. In any case, it is human beings who contest for Assembly Member positions. If he is above that position, I am not above it," he added.

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The former EPA boss further stated that his political ambitions are driven by his desire to contribute to the success of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's presidential bid.

"My dream is to ensure that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia becomes President. So, if it is an Assembly Member position or any other position that will help serve the course of ensuring Bawumia wins, I will do it," he said.

The response follows earlier comments by Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, who criticised Dr Kokofu's decision to contest the Ashanti Regional Chairmanship position, suggesting that he appeared unsure of the political office he wanted to pursue.

In an interview with Lawson TV, Okatakyie Afrifa argued that Dr Kokofu might contest any other available position, including an Assembly Member slot, if it became open.

🇬🇭🚨 JUST IN: Dr. Kwabena Kokofu has responded to Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah, stating that “he must know that Assembly Members are responsible people, and I have served in that capacity before at the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).” pic.twitter.com/JwjFEitPZD

— THE AGYAP⭕️NG Diary 🇬🇭🇳🇱 (@AgyapongDiary) August 6, 2026