Dr. Kwame Addo-Kufuor, a former Defence Minister of Ghana, has dismissed claims that he is the third richest man in the country, saying he does not even know his net worth.
In an interview with Joy News on Friday, Dr. Addo-Kufuor said he was surprised by a report published by Forbes Africa magazine in August, which ranked him as the third wealthiest person in Ghana with an estimated fortune of $1.2 billion.
“I don’t know where they got that figure from. I have never spoken to anybody from Forbes. I don’t even know how much I am worth. I have never done any valuation of my assets,” he said.
Dr. Addo-Kufuor, who is also a former Minister of Interior and a former Member of Parliament, said he was not interested in flaunting his wealth or competing with anyone.
“I am not in any race with anybody. I am just living my life as a citizen of Ghana, trying to contribute to the country’s development,” he said.
He added that he was more concerned about the welfare of the people, especially the youth, who are facing challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities.
“I think that is what we should focus on as a nation. How do we create jobs for our young people? How do we improve the quality of education and health care? How do we ensure that every Ghanaian has a decent standard of living?” he asked.
Dr. Addo-Kufuor, who is also the elder brother of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, said he was proud of his family’s achievements and legacy, but he did not inherit any wealth from them.
“My father was a teacher and a lawyer. He did not leave any property or money for us. We all worked hard to make our own way in life. My brother became president but did not use his position to enrich himself or his family. He served the nation with integrity and honor,” he said.
He also denied having any political ambitions, saying he was content with his role as a statesman and an elder statesman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the ruling party in Ghana.
“I have no intention of running for any office again. I have done my part and am satisfied with my achievements. I am now an adviser and a mentor to the younger generation of leaders in the party and the country,” he said.
He urged Ghanaians to support the current government led by President Nana Akufo-Addo, who he described as a visionary and a transformational leader.
“I think President Akufo-Addo is doing a great job. He has a clear vision and a bold agenda for Ghana. He is implementing policies and programs to benefit Ghanaians, especially the poor and vulnerable. He deserves our support and cooperation,” he said.
He expressed optimism that Ghana would overcome its current challenges and achieve its full potential as a prosperous and peaceful nation.
“I believe in Ghana. I believe in the future of Ghana. I believe that Ghana will rise again and become a shining star in Africa and the world,” he said.
Source: My Joy onlineÂ