Former Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu, has reacted to comments by media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah questioning his decision to contest the Ashanti Regional Chairmanship position of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Dr Kokofu disagreed with the criticism, saying Okatakyie Afrifa should have given more thought to his remarks before commenting on his political ambitions.
Speaking during an interview on Angel FM on August 6, 2026, Dr Kokofu challenged suggestions that he lacks clarity about the political position he wants to pursue and could contest any available role, including an Assembly Member position.
“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 questioned.
The former EPA boss explained that he has previously occupied the position of Assembly Member for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), stressing that the role is part of his public service experience.
“I have already been an Assembly Member at the KMA. I have records there. At the end of the day, it is human beings who contest for Assembly Member positions. If he believes he is above that position, I am not above it,” he stated.
Dr Kokofu added that his political decisions are motivated by his commitment to supporting the presidential ambition of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
He said his ultimate objective is to contribute to efforts aimed at helping Dr Bawumia win the presidency, regardless of the specific role he occupies within the party.
“My dream is to ensure that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia becomes President. So, whether it is an Assembly Member position or any other position that will help achieve that objective, I will do it,” he said.
His comments follow earlier remarks by Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, who criticised Dr Kokofu’s decision to seek the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairmanship position.
In an interview with Lawson TV, Okatakyie Afrifa suggested that Dr Kokofu appeared uncertain about his political direction and might pursue any available position if the opportunity arose, including an Assembly Member slot.
