Physician and senior New Patriotic Party (NPP) member, Dr Kobina Arthur Kennedy, has cautioned political supporters against expecting personal rewards for their loyalty, stressing that parties cannot provide for every “foot soldier” and that voting should be guided by principles, not material benefits.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dr Kennedy urged citizens to stop linking their political choices to promises of jobs, money, or favours, warning that such expectations undermine democratic values.
“No party can take care of all foot soldiers. It will never happen,” he said. “You don’t support a party because somebody will put money in your pocket, offer a scholarship you don’t deserve, or give you a job you are unqualified for. You support a party because its principles can make society better.”
Dr Kennedy’s comments come in the wake of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s victory in the NPP presidential primaries, which saw the former Vice President emerge as the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.
Drawing comparisons with politics in the United States, he explained that voters in mature democracies often align with parties based on ideology rather than personal gain.
“In the US, you vote Republican because you like lower taxes and deregulation. You vote Democrat because you support affirmative action. The idea is that the party’s principles will improve society, so everyone can benefit,” he said.
He emphasised that sustainable national development depends on citizens supporting policies and values that promote good governance rather than short-term personal interests.
Since Dr Bawumia’s win on January 31, discussions have intensified within the NPP around party unity, campaign strategy, and grassroots expectations. Dr Kennedy urged supporters across the political divide to focus on policies, competence, and integrity when making political choices.
“Politics should be about building a better society for everyone,” he concluded, “not just what an individual can get in return.”
