Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has disclosed how he played a pivotal role in the political ascent of the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako.
This comes as a response to Wontumi’s directive to remove all of Kyerematen’s campaign materials from the party’s office.
Kyeremanten recounted that back in 2015, Wontumi had confided in him, expressing no intentions of entering politics in Ghana.
However, a change of heart followed, with Wontumi attributing his decision to Kyeremanten’s political approach, which inspired him.
Alan indicated that, consequently, Wontumi began seeking guidance and direction from him as an emerging politician.
“Initially, I doubted his seriousness, but later, I recognized his commitment. I personally introduced him to the Bosomtwe constituency because he claimed to be from there. I was the one who recommended him for the position of chairman. During that period, I held a prominent position in the party, so he became chairman based on my recommendation,” Alan expressed.
Alan has also warned Mr. Boasiako to quit tarnishing his image around, describing him as a “ingrate”
“He [Wontumi] should be careful with the things he’s doing. You don’t have to be an ingrate if someone helps you. I led the delegation to ensure Wontumi became Regional Chairman, ask him. Now that he is gotten that top position, he thinks he is above everyone else. When I heard him campaigning against me, it was surprising,” he said.
Information came in on Tuesday September 23, of Chairman Wontumi who ordered for the the removal of all campaign materials of Alan Kyerematen in the area.
Chairman Wontumi, as he is popularly called said he will ensure the region is rid of all posters, billboards, and other advertisements of the former Trade Minister.
He disclosed this in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Tuesday.
In a recent turn of events, Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), issued an order to remove all posters of former party member Alan Kyerematen from party offices in the region, citing Kyerematen’s departure from the party as the reason for the directive.
However, Alan Kyerematen, in response to this decision, expressed his lack of concern regarding the removal of his posters but took issue with the person behind the request.
Alan Kyerematen, during an interview on the ‘Mpu Ne Mpu’ segment on UTV, made his sentiments clear. He began by questioning the origin of the order, saying, “It’s not a problem.
You say it’s from Wontumi? You say it’s from the chairman, Wontumi? Who brought Wontumi into the party? Ask him.” Kyerematen went on to recount the history of his involvement in Wontumi’s political journey, highlighting his role in introducing Wontumi to the NPP.
Kyerematen reminisced about his interactions with Wontumi in 2005 when he was going to Kumasi. He recalled how Wontumi, at that time a small-time businessman, approached him and expressed his willingness to support Kyerematen’s political aspirations after observing his vision and approach to politics.
Initially doubting Wontumi’s sincerity, Kyerematen soonrealized Wontumi’s commitment when he continued to seek his help.
Kyerematen shared that he liked young, courageous people and inquired about Wontumi’s constituency, eventually helping him become a chairman. He further promoted Wontumi within the party, making him a regional chairman due to his hard work and dedication.
However, Kyerematen expressed his disappointment in Wontumi’s recent actions, suggesting that Wontumi should be more cautious. He reminded Wontumi that betraying someone who had helped him succeed was not the right course of action.
While acknowledging Wontumi’s right to support other candidates, Kyerematen emphasized that launching an open campaign against him was unnecessary and advised Wontumi to act fairly as the regional chairman.
Kyerematen concluded his response by stating that he had no objections to the removal of his posters, as he was no longer an aspirant in the party. He assured that there were “no fears” on his part regarding the poster removal.
“If he says they should take my posters down, I do not have anything to say about it because I am no longer an aspirant in the party. So if my posters are supposed to be removed, then that is okay. No fears,” Mr Kyerematen said.
Chairman Wontumi’s decision to remove Alan Kyerematen’s posters came after an earlier interview on his radio station, Wontumi FM, where he made statements about Kyerematen’s past associations and his view that Kyerematen’s resignation was ill-advised.
Wontumi claimed that Kyerematen had benefited greatly from the NPP and implied that his departure from the party was ungrateful.
Founder and leader of Movement for Change, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has advised the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi to be temperate in his comments over his recent resignation from the ruling party.
In response to the former Trade Minister’s resignation from the NPP, Chairman Wontumi during an interview conducted on Wontumi TV portrayed Mr Kyerematen as ungrateful, especially in light of the considerable support and opportunities that the NPP had extended to him.
He suggested that Alan’s departure from the NPP could potentially result in adverse consequences for him.
“…President Kufour made you an ambassador and you were so happy. You (Alan), your girlfriends, your wife and your children enjoyed it so much. You sent them to good schools. President Kufuor also made you trade minister and because of this, you became so rich that you were nick-named Alan Cash.
“…You have enjoyed in the past because of the NPP. As for me, I think this resignation is a curse to him because the NPP has helped him. Look at how the party has helped you. If everyone in the NPP got what you have gotten from the party, none of them would complain of being mistreated,” he said in the Twi dialect.
But his comments have not sat well with Mr Kyerematen, who has cautioned Chairman Wontumi to be careful of the words he utters.
According to Mr Kyerematen, Chairman Wontumi lacks the ability to criticise him for his decision as he has on several occasions assisted him. He further described Chairman Wontumi as an “ingrate” for siding with other presidential aspirants during the party’s Super Delegates Conference.
“Who is Chairman Wontumi? I brought him into the party in 2005 with good intentions. He was a small-time businessman at that time. I have tolerated a lot of disrespect.
“He [Wontumi] should be careful with the things he’s doing. You don’t have to be an ingrate if someone helps you. I led the delegation to ensure Wontumi became Regional Chairman, ask him. Now that he is gotten that top position, he thinks he is above everyone else. When I heard him campaigning against me, it was surprising,” he said.
According to Mr Kyerematen, he felt betrayed when Chairman Wontumi openly campaigned against him.
“I’ve done nothing to you. If you support someone else, it’s nothing but to do an open campaign against me, what is your problem? If you’re a Regional Chairman should you do that? You are supposed to be fair but you have become a cheerleader,” he said sadly.
A memorandum from the leadership of Ashanti Region’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) has ordered all regional chairpersons in the 47 constituencies to quickly remove all posters, banners, and other campaign materials associated with the former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, from their party offices.
In the memo dated September 25, 2023, with the subject “Removal of all Alan Kverematen-branded items from our party offices” and signed by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, chairpersons region-wide to remove all posters, banners, and other campaign materials associated with the former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, from their party offices due to his resignation.
Reacting to this, Mr. Kyerematen said he was not bothered.
“It’s no problem. The order came from Wontumi. Who brought Wontumi to the party? I brought him into the party. He has to be thanking Alan Kyerematen”.
During an interview with Citi News Mr. Bartels advised the NPP leadership to gracefully acknowledge Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation and completely sever ties with him from the party.
“I felt sorry for him [Alan], he has taken the worst decision he can ever take in his political life. He is finished as a politician. This is the end for him as a politician,” Bartels said.
When asked if he believed Mr Kyerematen had been treated unfairly, the former Ablekuma North MP responded, “I won’t judge, but there are processes in the party for dealing with unfair treatment and every human institution has these little skirmishes and when they come, they are judged according to the laid down processes.”
Given that this is not the first time the former Trade and Industry Minister has chosen to leave the party, Mr. Bartels advised the NPP not to try to patch things up with him.
“It has happened twice and we won’t allow it to happen thrice and if the party has my views, it should beautifully accept it,” he said.
Mr. Kyerematen announced his resignation from the NPP on Monday, September 25, to pursue an independent presidential bid.
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reacted to Alan Kyerematen’s decision to resign from the party, describing the political move as disheartening.
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation on September 25, 2023, when he addressed the country about his political ambitions ahead of the 2024 general elections during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
The former Trade Minister noted that he no longer recognises the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
As such, he has distanced himself from the ruling government and will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate via a new political party, Movement for Change.
“Fellow Countrymen and Women, I joined the New Patriotic Party at the very beginning of its establishment as a Founding Member, believing in its core values and the long-standing traditions of its antecedents, predicated on fairness, equity, probity, accountability, and transparency. I have devoted the best part of my professional career to serving the Party, and I still believe in the vision of the founding fathers of the Party. However, the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks.
“It was my fervent wish to use the vehicle of the Party to bring my God-given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve our dear nation, Ghana at the highest level of executive authority. It is abundantly clear to me, that my services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008.
“Fellow Countrymen and Women, Under the circumstances and given the context provided, I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning with immediate effect from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 General Elections, as an Independent Presidential Candidate,” he said.
Officially reacting to Mr Kyerematen’s resignation during a press conference on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua criticised Mr Kyerematen for failing to inform the leadership of party of his decision before broadcasting such sensitive information to over 31 million Ghanaians.
“The disappointing part is the mode in which he decided to resign from the party, which was through a press conference without prior notice to the party,” he said.
Mr Frimpong Kodua holds the assertion that no initiative by the party would have been able to persuade Mr Kyerematen into boycotting his plans to part ways with the party.
“The party wants to believe that by his decision to hold a press conference to resign without first informing the leadership of the party suggests that he made a premeditated and irrevocable decision to resign from the party.”
Meanwhile, the NPP has refuted claims that its virtues no longer reflect those of its founding fathers and that the party has been hijacked by some individuals, as alleged by Mr Kyerematen.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted that there was nothing it could have done to prevent former presidential candidate, John Alan Kyerematen from resigning from the party.
The party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, during a press conference held on Tuesday, September 26, explained that Mr Kyerematen was resolved to leave the party owing to his decision to announce such an important step via a press conference.
According to Mr Frimpong Kodua, the former Trade Minister did not accord the party due respect by giving prior notice of his resignation before holding a press briefing in Accra on Monday.
He said: “The disappointing part is the mode in which he decided to resign from the party, which was through a press conference without prior notice to the party.
The party wants to believe that by his decision to hold a press conference to resign without first informing the leadership of the party suggests that he made a premeditated and irrevocable decision to resign from the party.”
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation on September 25, when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party says it has accepted Mr Kyerematen’s resignation from the party.
General Secretary for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has revealed that former presidential aspirant, John Alan Kyerematen, failed to inform the party of his resignation before going public.
He made this known when the party addressed Mr Kyerematen’s resignation during a press conference held at the party’s headquarters today.
He said: “The disappointing part is the mode in which he decided to resign from the party, which was through a press conference without prior notice to the party.”
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation on September 25, when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
Following this, Mr Frimpong Kodua, in a press statement, deemed Mr Kyerematen’s resignation “unfortunate”.
“The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken notice of the unfortunate decision of Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a long-standing member of the Party to forfeit his membership and contest as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 general elections,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the NPP holds the assertion that Mr Kyerematen was keen on exiting the party, hence his decision to make such an announcement via a press conference.
“The party wants to believe that by his decision to hold a press conference to resign without first informing the leadership of the party suggests that he made a premeditated and irrevocable decision to resign from the party,” Mr Kodua noted.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has addressed the public on the resignation of former presidential aspirant, John Alan Kyerematen today at the party headquarters.
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
In a press statement issued by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party deemed Mr Kyerematen’s resignation “unfortunate”.
“The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken notice of the unfortunate decision of Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a long-standing member of the Party to forfeit his membership and contest as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 general elections,” the statement read.
Alan Kyerematen has refuted claims regarding his relationship with former President John Agyekum Kufuor, asserting that these attributions are inaccurate. Specifically, he has denied the assertion that it was President Kufuor who introduced him to the New Patriotic Party, emphasizing that this claim is untrue. In essence, Alan Kyerematen has clarified that his political identity is not associated with the former president, contrary to the widespread belief held over the years.
“People don’t know me. My political capital has nothing to do with President Kufuor… my political career has nothing to with Kufuor and if you ask him, he will confirm this. When he has to sometimes talk about it, then he is sad because people have said things about him he knows nothing of that he brought me but when he became president in 2001, the first appointments he did… I told him that I didn’t want to become a minister,” he said during his first public interview, on UTV, since going independent.
Alan Kyerematen went on to describe how and why he turned down President Kufuor’s offer of a ministerial position.
“I told him I didn’t want an appointment from but that some of us worked hard to bring him to power and so we should be able to stay behind so that when he is doing something that is not right, we can have the courage to tell him,” he added.
After formally leaving the NPP, Alan is heading a Movement for Change in an effort to win the presidency of Ghana in the general elections of 2024.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely recognized as Chairman Wontumi, has expressed strong criticism towards Alan Kyerematen, a former NPP presidential aspirant, for his decision to leave the party and contest the 2024 elections as an independent candidate.
During an interview conducted on Wontumi TV on Monday, September 25, 2023, Chairman Wontumi openly expressed his disapproval of Alan’s choice.
He portrayed Alan as ungrateful, especially in light of the considerable support and opportunities that the NPP had extended to him. Furthermore, he suggested that Alan’s departure from the NPP could potentially result in adverse consequences for him.
“…President Kufour made you an ambassador and you were so happy. You (Alan), your girlfriends, your wife and your children enjoyed it so much. You sent them to good schools. President Kufuor also made you trade minister and because of this, you became so rich that you were nick-named Alan Cash.
“…You have enjoyed in the past because of the NPP. As for me, I think this resignation is a curse to him because the NPP has helped him. Look at how the party has helped you. If everyone in the NPP got what you have gotten from the party, none of them would complain of being mistreated,” he said in the Twi dialect.
On September 25, 2023, Mr. Kyerematen made a significant announcement regarding his political affiliation. He formally declared his resignation from the party during a press conference held at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
In his statement, he expressed his disillusionment with the NPP, asserting that the party had treated him and his supporters unfairly. He contended that the NPP’s current goals and agenda no longer align with the original vision of the party’s founding fathers.
As a result of these sentiments, the former Trade Minister revealed his intention to run for the presidency as an independent candidate in the upcoming 2024 election, representing his newly established party, the Movement for Change.
It’s worth noting that Mr. Kyerematen had initially been a contender for the NPP’s flagbearer position. However, on September 5, he withdrew from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
This isn’t the first time Mr. Kyerematen has parted ways with the NPP. He previously resigned from the party in 2008 following alleged attacks on his supporters after the NPP conducted its 2007 presidential primaries.
Throughout his political career, Mr. Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP, having been associated with the party since its inception in 1992. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Young Executives Forum (YEF), a group of young and dynamic business executives and professionals that provided significant financial support to the party. This support included the seed fund for the acquisition of the NPP’s first national headquarters building.
Meanwhile, former Ashanti Regional Minister, Samson Kwaku Boafo, has publicly endorsed Mr. Kyerematen in his presidential bid, lending his support to his aspirations for the highest office in the country.
The decision of former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Alan Kyerematen, to leave the party and run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections has sparked a sharp rebuke from Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP.
In a recent interview on Wontumi TV, on Monday, September 25, 2023, Chairman Wontumi accused Alan of ingratitude, reminding him of the opportunities he enjoyed within the party.
Wontumi pointed out that it was President Kufuor who appointed Alan Kyerematen as an ambassador, a position that brought him immense happiness and benefits. “You, your girlfriends, your wife, and your children enjoyed it so much,” Wontumi claimed in his interview, alluding to the privileges Alan and his family had during his tenure as an ambassador.
“President Kufuor made you an ambassador. When you got that, you were happy. You, your girlfriends, your friends. Alan Kyerematen, you and your girlfriends. Do you share your girlfriends with me? You and your girls and your friends were having fun, together with your wife and kids, attending good schools. President Kufuor also made you trade minister and because of this, you became so rich that you were nick-named Alan Cash,” he alleged in the Twi dialect.
He added that Alan’s decision to leave the NPP was a curse to him and that he would regret it in the future.
“As for me, I think this resignation is a curse to him because the NPP has helped him. Look at how the party has helped you. If everyone in the NPP got what you have gotten from the party, none of them would complain of being mistreated,” he said.
Chairman Wontumi’s comments follow Alan Kyerematen’s held a press conference in Accra on Monday to announce his resignation from the NPP and his intention to run for president as an independent candidate in 2024.
He lamented the transformation of the NPP, stating that it no longer resembled the party he had joined in 1992 and helped nurture. Alan claimed that the party had been taken over by a select group of leaders, government appointees, and “behind the curtain power brokers.”
“The NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, behind the curtain power brokers and some unscrupulous party apparatchiks.
“… I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate,” he said.
In his bid for the presidency, Alan revealed his plans to establish a new movement called “Movement for Change in Ghana,” symbolized by the Monarch Butterfly. He declared that this movement would be driven by the youth of Ghana, representing hope, positivity, and the desire for transformation.
Wontumi on Alan Cash
He added: “To actualise this goal, I will establish and lead a new MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE in Ghana. The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. The new Movement will be led and powered by the youth of Ghana. Out of the over 17 million registered voters in the 2020 general election, the youth aged 18-35 years constituted over 9.4 million voters representing 55% of the total voters,” he said.
Alan Kyerematen concluded, “The brand motto of the MOVEMENT is ‘Ghana Will Rise Again,’ which symbolizes hope for the future of Ghana.” He expressed his commitment to lead this movement and pursue his presidential ambition outside the NPP.
Alan Kyerematen is poised to appear on the ballot papers as a presidential candidate in the 2024 elections in Ghana, under the banner of his newly established “Movement for Change”, holding all things equal.
The former aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer position has expressed his belief that this movement holds the potential to bring about the essential change that Ghana requires.
During his official announcement on Monday, September 25, 2023, regarding his departure from the NPP, a party he had been affiliated with since 1992, Alan Kyerematen emphasized that this innovative movement will be driven by the youth of Ghana.
“I will establish and lead a new MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE in Ghana. The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. In Akan, it is known as Afrafranto. The brand motto of the MOVEMENT is ‘Ghana Will Rise Again,’ which symbolizes hope for the future of Ghana.
The Great Transformational Plan of the Movement for Change:
Following his separation from the New Patriotic Party, Alan Kyerematen has carried forward his well-known GTP plan to his newly established movement. He explained that through this 10-point GTP (Ghana Transformation Plan), he intends to provide the crucial employment opportunities required by the youth and stimulate the growth of a resilient national economy.
“Ghana is at a crossroads and the dynamics of our time requires a transformational leader. I believe that I am the leader for this time. I have already put forward for the consideration of our country, the Great Transformational Plan (GTP) which will significantly deal with poverty, and bring prosperity to our nation.
“The GTP is anchored on these pillars, namely;
1. Building a strong macroeconomic environment which will be characterized by a stable currency, low inflation, sustainable debt levels, revenue optimization, tight expenditure control, low competitive interest rates, strong external reserves, backed by high levels of liquidity to support the financial sector.
2. Introduce a New Agricultural Revolution (NAR) for Ghana, which will first take advantage of both local, regional and global markets; Secondly, be driven by technology, innovation and cutting-edge research; Thirdly, optimize value for farmers through value chains; and fourthly promote economies of scale through large scale commercial farming.
3. Promoting Industrial Transformation through value addition and the establishment of strategic anchor industries to diversify the Ghanaian economy. This will also involve the establishment of Industrial Parks and Special Economic Zones, as well as the aggressive promotion of Small and Medium Scale enterprise development.
4. Accelerated Infrastructure Development: Promoting Private sector financing for public infrastructure such as Roads, Railways, Ports and Harbours, Water Supply Systems, Public Housing etc. This will reduce Government’s exposure to the financing of such infrastructure projects.
5. Digital Mainstreaming: Mainstreaming digitalization in all Government and Public sector activities, and bringing digital technologies to the doorstep of the ordinary Ghanaian.
6. Energy Security and Diversification: placing greater emphasis on the development of renewable sources of energy, including but not limited to nuclear and hydrogen energy. This will require fast-tracking the execution of Government’s energy transition strategy.
7. Health: Expanding Health infrastructure and services by enhancing private sector participation in health service delivery across the country, as well improving the viability of the National Health Insurance Scheme.
8. Education: Undertaking a comprehensive review of existing reforms in the educational sector, particularly the Free SHS programme to ensure optimum efficiency and effectiveness in its implementation. Government will pay special attention to institutionalizing the link between industry, academia and educational institutions, and reinforce the importance of apprenticeship and internship. Considering the critical importance of early childhood development, a major thrust of Government’s new interventions in the educational sector, will be to improve basic education in all its form and nature, including but not limited to physical infrastructure, learning facilities, teacher training and curriculum development.
9. Tourism: Encouraging private sector investments in the development of world class tourism infrastructure, and also taking steps to leverage the tourism potential in each district and region of Ghana. In addition, my Government will facilitate air travel for tourists coming into the country by providing free visas including Visas on arrival. Finally, the development of the creative industry in Ghana will be the backbone of the new reforms in the tourism industry. This will include but not be limited to impactful reforms in the following creative industries; Film, Dance, Theatre, Music, Literature and Multimedia Arts.
10. Natural Resource Management: Developing and implementing a comprehensive programme for the management of Ghana’s Natural resources. This will include but not be limited to Oil & Gas; Solid Minerals; Water & Marine resources; and Land and Forest resources. As a target, there shall be no export of raw materials from Ghana in any form or nature, without a minimum of 60% value addition by the year 2030. This will usher in Ghana’s decade of industrial transformation, spanning the year 2025 to 2035.
11. Decarbonization and Climate Resilience: Scaling up Government’s current efforts at reducing Ghana’s carbon footprints and facilitating access to the carbon trading markets, as well as establishing mechanisms to strengthen the country’s preparedness against the negative effects of climate change and climate variability.
12. National Security and Defence Optimization: Deploying resources to strengthen National Security and Defence Mechanisms and Infrastructure, to deal substantively with emerging security threats and challenges, particularly in the Sahalian region.
13. Downsizing Government: Overhauling the architecture of the public service in Ghana by consolidating some existing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. This will lead to a lean Government structure that will ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of Government services, and also reduce cost to the National Budget.
14. Strategic Engagement with the International Community: Restructuring Ghana’s diplomatic and economic relations with the International Community, based on the principle of ‘positive neutrality’, with a focus on promoting the strategic interests of Ghana, as well as our shared commitment to humanity and the preservation of peace around the world.
15. Sports: Investing in world class new generation sports facilities in selected competitive sporting disciplines. In this regard, Government will encourage the participation of the private sector in the development of sports infrastructure around the country, including sports academies.
The Great Transformational Plan will provide “Jobs for the People, Cash for the People.”
The decision of former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Alan Kyerematen, to leave the party and run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections has sparked a sharp rebuke from Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP.
In a recent interview on Wontumi TV, on Monday, September 25, 2023, Chairman Wontumi accused Alan of ingratitude, reminding him of the opportunities he enjoyed within the party.
Wontumi pointed out that it was President Kufuor who appointed Alan Kyerematen as an ambassador, a position that brought him immense happiness and benefits. “You, your girlfriends, your wife, and your children enjoyed it so much,” Wontumi remarked in his interview, alluding to the privileges Alan and his family had during his tenure as an ambassador.
“President Kufuor made you an ambassador. When you got that, you were happy. You, your girlfriends, your friends. Alan Kyerematen, you and your girlfriends. Do you share your girlfriends with me? You and your girls and your friends were having fun, together with your wife and kids, attending good schools. President Kufuor also made you trade minister and because of this, you became so rich that you were nick-named Alan Cash,” he said in the Twi dialect.
He added that Alan’s decision to leave the NPP was a curse to him and that he would regret it in the future.
“As for me, I think this resignation is a curse to him because the NPP has helped him. Look at how the party has helped you. If everyone in the NPP got what you have gotten from the party, none of them would complain of being mistreated,” he said.
Chairman Wontumi’s comments follow Alan Kyerematen’s held a press conference in Accra on Monday to announce his resignation from the NPP and his intention to run for president as an independent candidate in 2024.
He lamented the transformation of the NPP, stating that it no longer resembled the party he had joined in 1992 and helped nurture. Alan claimed that the party had been taken over by a select group of leaders, government appointees, and “behind the curtain power brokers.”
“The NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, behind the curtain power brokers and some unscrupulous party apparatchiks.
“… I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate,” he said.
In his bid for the presidency, Alan revealed his plans to establish a new movement called “Movement for Change in Ghana,” symbolized by the Monarch Butterfly. He declared that this movement would be driven by the youth of Ghana, representing hope, positivity, and the desire for transformation.
He added: “To actualise this goal, I will establish and lead a new MOVEMENT FOR CHANGE in Ghana. The brand logo for the MOVEMENT is the Monarch Butterfly, which politically symbolizes change and transformation, hope, and positivity. It also communicates strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which are key traits that I cherish as a Political Leader. The new Movement will be led and powered by the youth of Ghana. Out of the over 17 million registered voters in the 2020 general election, the youth aged 18-35 years constituted over 9.4 million voters representing 55% of the total voters,” he said.
Alan Kyerematen concluded, “The brand motto of the MOVEMENT is ‘Ghana Will Rise Again,’ which symbolizes hope for the future of Ghana.” He expressed his commitment to lead this movement and pursue his presidential ambition outside the NPP.
Alan Kyerematen is a seasoned economist and politician who has served in various capacities under different governments. He was Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States from 2001 to 2003, Minister of Trade and Industry from 2003 to 2007, Senior Ministerial Adviser on Trade under President Nana Akufo-Addo from 2017 to 2021, and Minister of Trade and Industry from 2021 to 2023.
He has also contested for the NPP’s presidential nomination three times: in 2007, 2014, and 2018, but lost to Nana Akufo-Addo on each occasion.
His decision to leave the NPP has sparked mixed reactions among party members and supporters. Some have expressed disappointment and anger at his move, while others have wished him well and pledged their support for his presidential bid.
Member of Parliament representing the Mpraeso Constituency, Davis Ansah Opoku (OPK), has conveyed his disappointment regarding Alan Kyerematen’s departure from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections.
In a statement shared on Facebook, he described the move as “profoundly disappointing” and a “departure from the principles of party loyalty and unity” that are fundamental to the democratic process.
“The NPP has always thrived on the strength of its agreement and the collective support of its members. I express my unwavering commitment to the New Patriotic Party and its vision for Ghana.”
“The NPP is a party of great ideals, and we must come together, reaffirm our loyalty to the party, and work tirelessly towards securing victory in the 2024 elections. The Party remains Supreme; our strength lies in our unity. Let us put aside our differences and focus on our shared goal of delivering progress, prosperity, and good governance to the people of Ghana,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen announced his decision to resign from the ruling party when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognises the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has strongly criticized former NPP presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen for his choice to exit the party and run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections.
During an interview on Wontumi TV on Monday, September 25, 2023, Chairman Wontumi voiced his disapproval, characterizing Alan as ungrateful, considering the significant support and opportunities the NPP has provided him.
He went on to suggest that Alan’s decision to depart from the NPP was tantamount to inviting misfortune upon himself.
“…President Kufour made you an ambassador and you were so happy. You (Alan), your girlfriends, your wife and your children enjoyed it so much. You sent them to good schools. President Kufuor also made you trade minister and because of this, you became so rich that you were nick-named Alan Cash.
“…You have enjoyed in the past because of the NPP. As for me, I think this resignation is a curse to him because the NPP has helped him. Look at how the party has helped you. If everyone in the NPP got what you have gotten from the party, none of them would complain of being mistreated,” he said in the Twi dialect.
Mr Kyerematen on September 25, 2023, announced his resignation from the party when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
He noted that he no longer recognises the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
Mr Kyerematen first resigned from the party in 2008 following attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries.
Mr Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP following its establishment in 1992.
He was part of a group of young dynamic Business Executives and Professionals came together to establish the Young Executives Forum (YEF) that became the financial backbone of the Party and provided significant financial resources to support the Party in all its endeavours, including the seed fund for the purchase of the Party’s first national headquarters building.
Meanwhile, former Ashanti Regional Minister, Samson Kwaku Boafo has endorsed Mr Kyerematen in his bid for the highest office of the land.
Deputy Finance Minister, Abena Osei-Asare, says she is not aligned with the choice made by former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen to pursue an independent candidacy.
While Abena Osei-Asare acknowledged her personal and professional association with Mr. Kyerematen and her support for him, she emphasized that her unwavering commitment to the New Patriotic Party remains profound and firmly anchored in their common values.
In a press statement, the Deputy Finance Minister said, “First and foremost, while I enjoy both a personal and professional relationship with Hon. Alan Kyerematen, characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to our nation’s progress, I must respectfully distance myself from his recent choice.”
“My dedication to the New Patriotic Party is deep-seated, rooted in our shared values and vision for a prosperous Ghana. The NPP’s strength has always been its unity and our ability to work together for the common good of our country.”
Mr Kyerematen announced his decision to resign from the NPP when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognises the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for the Mpraeso, Davies Ansah Opoku, has also severed ties with Mr Kyerematen.
Read below Abena Osei-Asare’s post
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 25, 2023
I find it necessary to address the recent decision of Hon. Alan Kyerematen to leave the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and run as an independent candidate in 2024. First and foremost, while I enjoy both a personal and professional relationship with Hon. Alan Kyerematen, characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to our nation’s progress, I must respectfully distance myself from his recent choice.
My dedication to the New Patriotic Party is deep-seated, rooted in our shared values and vision for a prosperous Ghana. The NPP’s strength has always been its unity and our ability to work together for the common good of our country.
Let us look forward to the future, keeping the best interests of our party and our beloved Ghana at heart. With determination and unity, we can continue to work towards a brighter future for all Ghanaians. Best regards,
TV host and media figure Serwaa Amihere has questioned Alan Kyerematen’s campaign pledges as he vies for the presidency. She noted his prior influential role in the government and his sudden emergence with new ideas for national progress.
These comments follow Alan Kyerematen’s resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and his independent presidential candidacy announcement.
In a twitter post on September 25, Serwaa Amihere stated, “Alan was a part of this government. A cabinet minister too, but he all of a sudden has fresh ideas for the country.”
Her comments add to the chorus of reactions both online and offline regarding Alan Kyerematen’s political aspirations and his future in Ghana’s political arena.
Alan Kyerematen had been among the top five candidates in the presidential race and was poised to participate in the final selection on November 4, 2023. However, he secured the third position on the ballot list after receiving less than 100 votes out of over 900 cast during the August 2023 Special Delegates conference.
He trailed behind Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong. On September 25, 2024, Alan Kyerematen announced his decision to sever ties with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and launch a new political movement called the “Movement For Change.”
Alan Kyerematen’s choice of the monarch butterfly as his political symbol carries deep symbolism, representing transformation and change in the realm of Ghanaian politics.
The monarch butterfly is known for its striking black and orange colors and is associated with transformation, rebirth, and renewal. This resonates with Kyerematen’s political journey and aspirations. His decision to run as an independent candidate marks a significant departure from his longstanding association with the NPP, and the monarch butterfly symbolizes his quest for political change and growth.
The monarch butterfly’s strength and endurance parallel Kyerematen’s determination to uphold his convictions and principles. Just as the butterfly sustains its beliefs during its remarkable migration, Kyerematen seeks to stand by his ideals in pursuit of a better future for Ghana.
The choice of black and orange in the symbol carries its own significance. Black represents mystery and power, emphasizing the enigmatic nature of Kyerematen’s departure from the NPP. However, it also hints at the mixed emotions and potential conflicts surrounding his decision. On the other hand, the vibrant orange symbolizes Kyerematen’s passion for change, creative approach to politics, and his goal to uplift the spirits of the Ghanaian people.
Overall, the monarch butterfly symbolizes Kyerematen’s political transformation and renewal, embodying resilience, spirituality, and unwavering trust in the pursuit of a better future. His choice of this symbol reflects a fascinating blend of color psychology, mirroring the complexities of his political transition.
As the 2024 elections approach, Alan Kyerematen’s political journey with the monarch butterfly as his symbol will be closely watched, as it represents a powerful transformation in Ghana’s political landscape.
Alan John Kyerematen, a prominent member of Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former Minister for Trade and Industry, made a surprising decision. He has announced his intention to run as an independent candidate in the upcoming elections. This move represents a significant juncture in the 67-year-old’s political career, given his long-standing and impactful involvement with the NPP.
During a press conference held in Accra on Monday, September 25, Mr Kyerematen expressed his belief that despite his unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the party over the years, his efforts have not received due recognition. He further underscored that his continued association with the NPP could potentially worsen existing tensions and divisions, similar to the circumstances that led to his resignation from the party in 2008.
Former member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has lamented the current status of the ruling party, which he says has been corrupted by some of its leaders and elders.
On Monday, September 25, Mr Kyerematen, who withdrew from the party’s presidential race, resigned from the NPP.
He noted the change in core values of the NPP as one of the reasons behind his resignation.
According to the former Trade Minister, he devoted the best part of his professional career to serving the party owing to “the long-standing traditions of its antecedents, predicated on fairness, equity, probity, accountability, and transparency.”
However, he says, the traditions no longer stand as the “Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks.”
He added, “the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture.”
For Mr Kyerematen, it was his fervent wish to use the vehicle of the Party to bring his God given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve Ghana at the highest level of executive authority on the ticket of the NPP, however, that would not be the case.
Mr Kyerematen also noted that he feels his services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that his continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to his decision to resign from the Party in 2008.
Mr Kyerematen resigned from the party in 2008 following challenges with its 2007 presidential primaries. He claimed that his supporters were attacked and treated as outcasts.
Alan Kyerematen, a former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has bemoaned how his efforts towards the growth of the NPP were taken for granted and never duly recognised.
He registered his displeasure with how the NPP has allegedly treated him when he announced his resignation from the NPP today, September 25, 2023.
According to Mr Kyerematen, this unwarranted treatment stems from the hijacking of the party by some leaders and government appointees, who have ensured that the party veers off the aims and objectives of its founding fathers.
“I have devoted the best part of my professional career to serving the Party, and I still believe in the vision of the founding fathers of the Party. However, the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks.”
He therefore said: “It is abundantly clear to me, that my services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008.”
According to Mr Kyerematen, it was his fervent wish to use the vehicle of the Party to bring his God given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve the country at the highest level of executive authority.
He further accused the party of attacking his supporters since 2008 when he resigned from the party following challenges with its 2007 presidential primaries.
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, has recounted when he refused a cabinet ministerial appointment by former President John Agyekum Kufuor, whom he once contested against during a presidential primaries hosted by the New Patriotic Party in 1996.
During the 1996 Presidential Primaries, he contested alongside leading personalities in the Party such as Professor Adu Boahen, Mr. J. A. Kufour, Dr. Dsane-Selby, Dr. Kwame Sarfo Adu, Mr. J.H. Mensah and Dr. Jones Ofori-Attah.
According to him, he was prevailed upon by some senior members of the Party, in particular, Mr. Akenten Appiah Menka and Mr. Stephen Krakue, both of blessed memory, to sacrifice the opportunity to contest for the leadership of the Party, and rather support my senior colleague aspirants.
He noted that from 1996 to 2000, he played a leading role in supporting the bid of the then candidate John Agyekum Kufour to win the general elections, and become President of the Republic in 2001.
Following the elections, Mr Kyerematen says he was offered a Cabinet minister position, which he declined.
“After refusing appointment as a Cabinet Minister in the aftermath of the elections, the President persuaded me to become NPP’s first Ambassador to the United States, a position I served with distinction,” he said.
Mr Kyerematen made this revelation when he announced his resignation from the NPP today, September 25, 2023.
In 2003, Mr Kyerematen was appointed as Minister for Trade and Industry and Presidential Special Initiatives, to implement a new economic paradigm which he had introduced in 2001, on the assumption of office by President Kufour.
Between 2003 and 2007, he led the Government’s programme for enhancing private sector development and ushering a Golden Age of Business in Ghana.
Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) member, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has recounted that during his time in the party, his supporters faced attacks and were treated as outcasts following the party’s 2007 presidential primaries.
In 2007, Mr. Kyerematen ran for the party’s flagbearer position alongside 16 other candidates, including the current President, Nana Akufo-Addo. Nana Akufo-Addo emerged as the winner, with Mr. Kyerematen as the runner-up. According to the party’s electoral process, the two were slated for a second-round ballot.
However, Mr. Kyerematen declined to contest and instead allowed Nana Akufo-Addo to be selected as the NPP’s flagbearer for the 2008 general elections.
According to the former Trade Minister, he did this to “avoid a further deterioration of peace in an already divided Party.”
Nonetheless, the gesture he made was met with opposition as “there were very serious post-primary attacks on my supporters all over the country, and an open show of hostility.”
“Some of my supporters were victims of brutalities and continue to bear the scars of that treatment,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen, while announcing his recent resignation from the party at a press conference in Accra today, noted that he drew the attention of the leadership of the party, however, “my representations went unheeded.”
As a result of this, he decided to resign from the NPP “in protest against the blatant alienation of my supporters, orchestrated by elements aligned to the leadership of the Party.”
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, no longer sides with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He made this known during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on September 25, 2023.
Mr. Kyerematen stated that he no longer identifies with the NPP, as its objectives and agenda no longer align with the vision of the party’s founding fathers.
Below is his full statement.
SPEECH BY HON. ALAN JOHN KWADWO KYEREMATEN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE FOR THE DECEMBER 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS AT MOVENPICK AMBASSADOR HOTEL, ACCRA ON MONDAY, 25TH SEPT. 2023 ● FELLOW COUNTRYMEN & WOMEN; ● FRIENDS FROM THE MEDIA; ● DISTINGUISHED INVITED GUESTS; ● LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.
Let me start first by expressing my profound gratitude to you all for accepting my invitation to attend this Press Conference. I give thanks to the Almighty God for His manifold blessings on my life and for His grace and mercy.
I wish also to use this platform to express my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you, particularly the rank and file of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who have believed in my vision, who have stood by me through thick and thin, and who have shown unwavering faith in the promise of a bright future for Ghana. Your belief in the possibilities of our nation and your dedication to the ideals of progress, unity and prosperity have been nothing short of inspiring.
It is important for me at the onset, to provide a historical context for what has occasioned this Press Conference today.
In 1992, when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was established, a group of young dynamic Business Executives and Professionals came together to establish the Young Executives Forum (YEF) under my Chairmanship. The YEF since 1992, became the financial backbone of the Party and provided significant financial resources to support the Party in all its endeavours, including the seed fund for the purchase of the Party’s first national headquarters building.
As Chairman of the YEF, I had the privilege of serving as a member of the National Executive Committee and the National Council of the Party. In addition to this, I served as a leading member of various Committees of the Party.
Former Minister of Trade and Industry, and four-time presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has announced his resignation from the party, citing intimidation and unfairness by some party officials and supporters who favoured one particular candidate.
He said that the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the party that he joined in 1992 and helped to nurture.
In a speech delivered at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on Monday, September 25, 2023, Kyerematen said that he joined the NPP as a founding member, believing in its core values and the long-standing traditions of its antecedents, predicated on fairness, equity, probity, accountability, and transparency.
He said that he had devoted the best part of his professional career to serving the party, and that he still believed in the vision of the founding fathers of the party.
However, he said that the party had been hijacked by a selected group of party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous party apparatchiks.
He said that these people had manipulated the party’s processes and structures to favour one candidate over others, and had used intimidation, violence, bribery, and propaganda to silence any dissenting voices.
Alan Kyerematen
“I have devoted the best part of my professional career to serving the Party, and I still believe in the vision of the founding fathers of the Party. However, the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks, ” he said.
Mr Kyerematen said that it was his fervent wish to use the vehicle of the party to bring his God-given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve Ghana at the highest level of executive authority. He said that he had a unique appeal and experience that could help the party win power from the incumbent National Democratic Congress (NDC), which he accused of mismanaging the economy, undermining democracy, and violating human rights.
He said that it was abundantly clear to him that his services and contributions to the party were not appreciated, and that his continuous stay in the party would create further tension and division. He said that this was an exact replay of circumstances that led to his decision to resign from the party in 2008. He said that he had no choice but to leave the party with a heavy heart and seek other avenues to serve Ghana.
“It was my fervent wish to use the vehicle of the Party to bring my God given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve our dear nation, Ghana at the highest level of executive authority .
It is abundantly clear to me, that my services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008,” he mentioned.
He thanked his supporters and sympathisers for their loyalty and dedication over the years. He also thanked President Nana Akufo-Addo for giving him the opportunity to serve as a minister in his administration. He said that he wished him well in his remaining term of office. He said that he would announce his next political move in due course.
Kyerematen’s resignation has come as a shock to many political observers and analysts, who have described it as a big blow to the NPP. They have said that Kyerematen was one of the most popular and influential figures in the party, who had a strong base of support across the country. They have also said that his departure would create a vacuum in the party’s leadership and succession plan.
Kyerematen had contested for the NPP flagbearership four times since 2007, but had not been successful so far. He had lost to Nana Akufo-Addo three times in 2007, 2010, and 2014. He had also come third for the first time in 2021 in a special delegates conference that aimed to reduce the number of candidates to five. He had faced nine other candidates, including Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong. Bawumia had won with 52%, followed by Agyapong with 19%. Kyerematen had received 10% of the votes.
Former Trade Minister, John Alan Kyerematen, has criticised the Police Service over the unmerited actions meted out to #OccupyJulorBiHouse protestors by its officers.
On Day 1 of the demonstration, protestors were not able to do much as 49 individuals within the vicinity of the Jubilee House and the 37 Military Hospital area were arrested by the Police for unlawful assembly which the Police said violated of the Public Order Act.
This action followed an application filed by the Police at the court on the eve of the protest to halt the demonstration.
Following the arrest, reports of assault against the protestors, including Ghanaian journalist, Bridget Otoo emerged on social media, with many citizens calling for calm. Among those reportedly arrested were a BBC journalist and his cameraman. Several artistes such as Cina Soul and KiDi showed solidarity as they sided with the protestors.
But the police in a press statement refuted the claim, noting that its officers had not detained a male journalist with the BBC.
The Police clarified that two individuals who were among a group picked up were let go after they identified themselves as journalists.
24 hours later after the arrest, there were reports that some protestors who were detained had been released. Media reports were not able to provide the specific number of protestors released.
Reacting to the incident, said “the initial reaction of the Police in manhandling some protestors is not the solution to the problem.”
He made the utterance during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on September 25, 2023, when he announced his resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In his opinion, the protest stems from the pervasive employment crisis, which he says is gradually becoming a national security threat.
According to Mr Kyterematen, “every year over 300,000 (three hundred thousand) graduates from tertiary institutions in Ghana, excluding those from secondary institutions, enter the job market with little or no hope of finding a job.”
He ruled out public sector employment as it is currently “overbloated.”.
For Mr Kyerematen, what Ghana needs now is a change, which will provide long-lasting solutions to the challenges confronting the country.
Meanwhile, the Police Management Board (POMAB) has summoned COP Sayibu Gariba, the Accra Regional Police Commander, to provide explanations regarding the use of excessive force against participants in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted that it will address the resignation of former presidential aspirant, John Alan Kyerematen on Tuesday.
In a press statement issued by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party deemed Mr Kyerematen’s resignation “unfortunate”.
“The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken notice of the unfortunate decision of Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a long-standing member of the Party to forfeit his membership and contest as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 general elections,” the statement read.
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
The leadership of the party has meanwhile urged the rank and file of our great Party to remain calm and await an official address by the Party to Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation at 14:00 p.m. tomorrow at the Party headquarters.
Mr Alan Kyerematen, who once sided with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has revealed the maltreatment he and his supporters faced during his active days with the party.
He recounted his sufferings when he announced his resignation from the NPP during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
According to Mr Kyerematen, the attacks against him and his fan base have led him to part ways with the ruling party seeking to retain power in the 2024 general elections.
The former Trade Minister noted that the attacks began as far back as 2008 after the party’s 2007 presidential primaries.
He noted that despite stepping down for Nana Akufo-Addo (now current president) to be elected flagbeaer, he made was met with opposition as “there were very serious post-primary attacks on my supporters all over the country, and an open show of hostility.”
“Some of my supporters were victims of brutalities and continue to bear the scars of that treatment,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen, while announcing his recent resignation from the party at a press conference in Accra today, noted that he drew the attention of the leadership of the party, however, “my representations went unheeded.”
As a result of this, he decided to resign from the NPP “in protest against the blatant alienation of my supporters, orchestrated by elements aligned to the leadership of the Party.”
However, he returned to the party following talks with the Reconciliation Committee. Nonetheless, the attacks, he said continued unabated.
“The protests and reactions from the rank and file of the Party at that time from all over the country, compelled the then Chairman of the Party to constitute a Reconciliation Committee chaired by the then immediate past Chairman of the Party, Ambassador Samuel Odoi Sykes. The Committee upheld all my submissions and prevailed upon me to rescind my decision to resign, which I did, with the firm promise to address all the contentious issues I had raised in my notice of resignation.
“As a loyal member of the Party, I accepted the plea of the party leadership and joined the campaign team of then Candidate Akufo-Addo all over the country, providing exceptional support to his campaign.
“Unfortunately, however, all the promises made by the Party leadership were never fulfilled, and indeed the divisive and hostile attacks on my person and my supporters remained for several years thereafter, and have continued to date. It is common knowledge that any Party member who is associated directly or indirectly with Alan, is treated with disdain and considered an outcast,” he said.
Former trade minister and a four-time aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership, Alan Kyerematen, has announced his resignation from the party and his intention to contest as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election.
He made this announcement at a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Accra on Monday, September 25, 2023.
Mr Kyerematen noted that he had endured resentment and hostility within the NPP for years, despite his sacrifices and contributions to the party, recounting his experiences in the NPP presidential primaries since 2007, when he first contested with current President, Nana Akufo-Addo.
“In 2007, I joined a distinguished group of seventeen (17) Presidential aspirants to contest in the presidential primaries of NPP. In that election, under very strange circumstances, the electoral process was truncated on the day of the election, on account of accusations levelled against me, of influencing the course of the elections. This strategy was designed to create disfavour against me, in an attempt to diminish my popularity and the massive support I enjoyed amongst the grassroot activists of the Party,” he said.
However, he said that he and his supporters were attacked and alienated by some elements in the party, and that his representations to the party leadership were then ignored.
“Despite the sacrifice that I made to unite the Party as referred to above, there were very serious post-primary attacks on my supporters all over the country, and an open show of hostility. Some of my supporters were victims of brutalities and continue to bear the scars of that treatment. I made several representations to the then leadership of the Party, drawing their attention to the rancorous and divisive behaviour of some elements in the Party, ” he mentioned.
Frustrated by the blatant alienation of his supporters orchestrated by elements within the party’s leadership, Alan contemplated resigning from the NPP.
The outcry from party members nationwide prompted the then Chairman of the Party to establish a Reconciliation Committee, chaired by Ambassador Samuel Odoi Sykes. The committee validated Alan’s concerns and persuaded him to withdraw his resignation, with a promise to address the contentious issues he had raised.
In his unwavering commitment to the party, Alan Kyerematen accepted this plea and actively joined the campaign team of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, providing invaluable support during the election. However, the promises made by the party leadership remained unfulfilled, and the divisive attacks against Alan and his supporters persisted for several years, continuing to the present day.
“It is common knowledge that any Party member who is associated directly or indirectly with Alan, is treated with disdain and considered an outcast. I have endured all this resentment, and maintained my integrity within the Party throughout the past fifteen year,” he mentioned in his speech to a cheerful audience.
Former member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has noted that while with the party, his supporters were subjected to attacks following the party’s 2007 presidential primaries.
In 2007, Mr Kyerematen contested for the flagbearership title with 16 others, including current President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Nana Akufo-Addo came first, and Mr Kyerematen was the runner-up and according to the rules of the party’s electoral process, the two were programmed for a second run ballot.
However, he refused to contest and allowed Nana Akufo-Addo to be chosen as the NPP’s flagbearer in the 2008 general elections.
According to the former Trade Minister, he did this to “avoid a further deterioration of peace in an already divided Party.”
Nonetheless, the gesture he made was met with opposition as “there were very serious post-primary attacks on my supporters all over the country, and an open show of hostility.”
“Some of my supporters were victims of brutalities and continue to bear the scars of that treatment,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen, while announcing his recent resignation from the party at a press conference in Accra today, noted that he drew the attention of the leadership of the party, however, “my representations went unheeded.”
As a result of this, he decided to resign from the NPP “in protest against the blatant alienation of my supporters, orchestrated by elements aligned to the leadership of the Party.”
Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has made known details about his political future today at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
Ahead of this much-anticipated address, there had been a widespread speculation that the former Trade Minister might sever ties with the NPP and opt to pursue his presidential ambitions as an independent candidate in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26.
Several prominent supporters ofAlan Kyerematen, the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, have publicly expressed their views following his withdrawal from the presidential primary on September 5.
From those who have redirected their support to rival factions to those pursuing personal ambitions, and two sitting Members of Parliament awaiting further political decisions from Kyerematen, their responses shed light on the fallout from his decision.
Kyerematen cited the assault on his agents, an alleged skewed electoral system by the party leadership, and a lack of trust in the processes leading to the November 4 contest as the primary reasons for his withdrawal.
Catherine Afeku backs Bawumia: Former lawmaker Catherine Afeku has thrown her support behind Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s candidacy in the forthcoming November 4 flagbearership election within the NPP. She made this declaration on the September 11 edition of Adom FM’s Morning Show, expressing her commitment to rallying her supporters behind Bawumia. She emphasized the importance of the NPP staying in power, stating, “any alternative other than the NPP will spell dark doom for Ghana.”
Richard Nyamah focuses on Kpandai Seat: Richard Nyamah, Deputy Spokesperson for Alan’s campaign team, announced via a Facebook statement on September 11 that he is now concentrating on his campaign to become the Member of Parliament for the Kpandai Constituency in the Northern Region. He explained that his shift in focus was due to the conclusion of his role with Kyerematen’s campaign. Nyamah took the opportunity to express gratitude to Alan Kyerematen for the trust placed in him and wished him well as he reevaluates his role in Ghanaian politics.
Sly Tetteh respects decision: Sylvester Tetteh, the Member of Parliament for Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfro, has made various statements following Kyerematen’s withdrawal. While he has raised concerns about threats to Alan’s aides and supporters, he also stressed that he expects his principal to remain in the NPP and not form a rival party. Tetteh, known as Sly Tetteh, indicated that if Alan Kyerematen decides to endorse a candidate in the November 4, 2023 election, his followers will carefully consider their options before deciding whether to support him or not.
Davis Ansah Opoku advises against party split: Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, offered counsel and cautioned against the possibility of Kyerematen forming his own political party or pursuing an independent political path. In an interview on The Point of View on Citi TV, Opoku emphasized the importance of party loyalty and encouraged Kyerematen to remain within the NPP rather than contemplating a split. He underscored that leaving the NPP would not garner support, and MPs who supported Kyerematen would not necessarily follow him. Opoku expressed confidence that Kyerematen’s contributions were still needed within the party.
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team, Owusu Banahene, has accused President Akufo-Addo of betraying a former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.
Speaking to the media, Mr Banahene stated that it is regrettable that President Akufo-Addo has been reluctant to support Alan Kyerematen, especially considering the significant sacrifice Mr Kyerematen made for him in 2007.
According to him, Akufo-Addo’s reluctance to support Mr Kyerematen is perceived as ingratitude, as Akufo-Addo had promised to reciprocate the kind gesture made to him years ago.
“President Akufo-Addo has stabbed Alan in the back due to his failure to reciprocate the sacrifice Kyerematen made in 2007. During that election, Akufo-Addo reportedly couldn’t reach the 50% benchmark in the first round, and Kyerematen had a chance to win in the second round but chose to withdraw to support Akufo-Addo out of love.
“Akufo-Addo acknowledged Kyerematen’s sacrifice and promised to support him to become president in the future. However, when the time came, Akufo-Addo allegedly chose Vice President Bawumia as the candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP),” he added.
Mr Banahene’s comments come in the wake of Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the NPP presidential race.
Scores of Ghanaians have blamed Mr Kyerematen’s fall on president Akufo-Addo.
Weighing in the conversation a media personality, Samuel Attah-Mensah, has suggested that Mr Kyerematen’s presidential ambitions were compromised the moment he accepted a role in President Akufo-Addo’s administration.
Mr Attah-Mensah stated that Akufo-Addo is unlikely to choose Kyerematen over Vice President Bawumia as the preferred leader of their political party, as Akufo-Addo has consistently supported Bawumia, his loyal deputy, for an extended period.
“The moment Alan Kyerematen accepted the appointment as the trade minister under the Akufo-Addo in 2017 is where he left the race. “Akufo-Addo will not against all odds propose Bawumia to be running mates against the stance of the party, work with him for 7 years and not stand with him at a point like this,” he added.
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to withdraw from the race for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidacy was influenced by several factors, including his performance at the party’s Super Delegates Conference and allegations of interference by certain party leaders.
Mr Kyerematen expressed concern that the Super Delegates Conference had been strategically biased in favor of a specific aspirant.
He pointed to statements made by prominent party members both before and after the elections as evidence of this bias.
“The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, both direct and indirect, unleashed upon a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across all sixteen regions is unprecedented in the history of our Party. Furthermore, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region suffered severe damage to his eyesight as a result of his brave and unwavering efforts to ensure strict compliance with the rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections, as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark stain in the annals of our Party’s internal elections. These incidents, along with various reports of violence and collusion in other Voting Centers, are not only shocking but also reprehensible and inexcusable,” he added.
Member of Parliament (MP) representing Dormaa East, Paul Twum-Barimah, has confidently asserted that former Trade Minister and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential aspirant, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, remains committed to the party.
This declaration comes in the wake of Alan Kyerematen’s unexpected withdrawal from the presidential race, citing reasons such as intimidation, violence, and bias. In his official statement, Alan alluded to a forthcoming evaluation of his political role within the NPP.
While speculation has arisen about the possibility of his departure from the party, Twum-Barimah, speaking to the media within the parliament, firmly maintained that Alan Kyerematen is here to stay.
He is determined to work towards the party’s success in the upcoming elections, aiming to break the cycle of two terms and secure another term for the NPP.
“NPP will always come out strong, NPP will always come out unified, I mean we are tried and tested and proved to be one of the best democratic parties on the continent and in the world, we will be among the top ones.
“Clearly, this is not the time I strongly believe that the party hierarchy or let me say the rank and file of the party will sit and realize that breaking the eight. We cannot break the eight with a divided front. We cannot break the eight with this person moving to the other side and the other person calling names and that,” Mr. Twum-Barimah indicated.
He continued: “This is the time that we need to sit around the table and all of us put our hands to the wheel and make sure that we break the eight. The current leader Nana Addo Dankwa is a symbol of unifier, we know that the party Chairperson, Chairman Ntim fantastic man with the General Secretary I am sure they are going to do a good job and they are going to call for a unity approach to whatever is going on this party.”
Managing Editor of Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr has highlighted four potential political paths for Alan Kyerematen following his withdrawal from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries.
Pratt emphasized the importance of Kyerematen making a prompt decision to prevent the dispersion of his efforts and to provide clarity to his supporters regarding his future plans.
Pratt suggested four among several options for the former flagbearer aspirant to solidify his political presence within the party and the nation.
Here are the options:
a. Withdraw from the party and contest as an independent candidate knowing that he could push the election into a runoff and become kingmaker of Ghana
b. He can put his full weight behind one of the four remaining candidates in the race
c. He can decide not to contest for presidency “and just stay and watch which has its meaning and implications,” Pratt submitted.
Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, has indicated that former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, will not receive the following he requires should he decide to break away from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking on Citi TV’s The Point of View show, Mr Ansah explained that the supporters Mr Kyerematen has garnered, is due to his affiliation to the ruling party, hence any disassociation will cost him.
He further noted that the legislators who have thrown their weight behind Mr Kyerematen will also withdraw their support.
“I will be worried. I really would not think that Mr Kyerematen would want to form his party or would want to go Independent. I mean, we all supported him because he is NPP first and I am not too sure he is going to disappoint the teeming supporters of the NPP.
Well, if he leaves the NPP, he is not going to get any support. All the MPs that supported Alan Kyerematen supported him because he is NPP. And so if he leaves NPP nobody will follow him. That point must be made,” he told CitiTV’s Bernard Avle.
The conversation about Alan Kyerematen going independent has arisen following his withdrawal from the NPP primaries.
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, in a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, noted that his withdrawal stems from abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference due to the interference of some leaders of the party.
In his statement, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.”
While a school thought believes the best move for Mr Kyerematen would be to become the running mate of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is considered a front runner in the NPP Primaries, others suggest that the former Trade Minister goes solo.
Former Chairman of the National Democratic Congress in the Central Region, Bernard Jacobs Allotey, has noted that but for his name, Mr Alan Kyerematen would not have garnered any votes in the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Conference.
He made this statement during an interview with Kwame Sefa Kayi on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo Show.
Bernard Jacobs Allotey noted that the few people within the NPP who recall the former Trade Minister due to his previous efforts to become flagbearer were those who decided to cast their ballot for him.
“First and foremost, Alan won by 95 votes, which couldn’t give him the total victory to lead in the Super Delegates, because of the name Alan Kyerematen.
It is something that he should know. Within the cluster of voters, some liked him, so they voted for him,” he said.
According to Mr Jacobs Allotey, he would have preferred that Mr Kyerematen resign before the Super Delegates Conference.
“I said it here last week that it would have been better for him to resign, step aside,” he stated.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference held on August 26, with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
Following the conference, Mr Alan Kyerematen announced his withdrawal from the presidential candidate race, citing his abysmal performance among other reasons for his decision.
“After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations,” he wrote.
Mr Alan Kyerematen further accused the party of allowing the “level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions.”
This, he said, is unprecedented in the history of the NPP.
“In addition, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region has suffered severe damage to his eye sight, arising from his bold and courageous effort to ensure compliance with the very rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark spot in the history of internal elections within the Party.
This incident and various acts of violence and collusion, reported in other Voting Centers, are appalling, unconscionable, and despicable,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen is of the assertion that the path allegedly taken by the party is one that would lead to “self-destruction.”
He is of the opinion that the challenges raised will be “escalated in the next round of elections, for which balloting is scheduled for Wednesday, 6th of September 2023.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Citi 97.3 FM, Samuel Attah-Mensah, has shared his views on why former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, has failed in his quest to become a flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and subsequently, Ghana’s president.
After an abysmal performance at the NPP’s Super Delegates Conference, Mr Kyerematen withdrew from the presidential race.
He accused some leaders of the party for siding with one aspirant.
In his statement issued on September 5, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
But Samuel Attah-Mensah also known as Sammens, believes the factors that caused Mr Kyerematen’s defeat did not begin today.
During a discussion on the Citi Breakfast Show, Sammens noted that it was politically wrong for Mr Kyerematen to accept a ministerial position from President Akufo-Addo, who was once his contender for the NPP flagbearership role.
He explained that accepting such a position ensured that he submitted to President Akufo-Addo, who decided to pick, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as his running mate.
Sammens further noted that it is expected that the president would throw his weight behind Dr Bawumia who stood by his side as his running mate for eight years.
“Nana Akufo-Addo would not against all odds propose a certain Dr Bawumia to be running mate against the stance of the party, work with him for seven years and not stand with him at a point like this. You have submitted yourself under the man,” he said.
In 2003, Alan Kyerematen was appointed as the Cabinet Minister with responsibility for Trade, Industry, and the President’s Special Initiatives (PSI).
In May 2017, President Nana Akufo-Addo named Alan Kyerematen as part of the nineteen ministers who would form his cabinet.
For Samuel Attah-Mensah another reason Mr Kyerematen has been unsuccessful is over his inability to take charge of the Trade Ministry and leave a long lasting legacy.
“Again, while he was Minister, he did not create any space for himself to access his leadership, take ownership of something that will help garner his base.
“Top of my head, I don’t know where Alan’s political base is, if there is they can point that to us. It will be very difficult to say,” he noted.
A letter written and signed in 2007 by then failed presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen to resign from the party has popped up once again on social media.
At the time, Alan Kyerematen was responsible for Identifiable Groups in the 2007 campaign team of the then flag bearer of the NPP, Nana Akufo-Addo who went ahead to lose the 2008 election to NDC’s Atta Mills.
Read the letter below
“I have monitored extensively media reportage and discussions within the past week, following my decision to resign from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). “It is clear that there is a calculated attempt emanating from certain quarters, to create public disaffection against me for taking a decision on principles and to create the impression that I am vacillating on my decision to resign, thereby displaying inconsistency in thought and judgment.
“I wish to state categorically that I have not rescinded my decision to resign from the party. The statement further read, “We must also not lose sight of the fact that national interest is superior to the interest of any single party. In this regard, I will soon give a firm indication of the role that I expect to play in the political landscape of the country. This, I believe, will bring hope and confidence to all Chanaians irrespective of the political or religious affiliation or ethnic background.”
Media personality, Samuel Attah-Mensah has indicated that former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen lost his presidential ambitions the day he accepted to serve under president Akufo-Addo.
During a media statement, Mr Attah-Mensah clarified that president Akufo-Addo is highly unlikely to select Alan over vice president, Bawumia as the preferred leader of their political party.
According to him president Akufo-Addo has consistently supported Bawumia, who has been his loyal deputy for an extended period.
Mr Attah-Mensah emphasized that President Akufo-Addo would not, under any circumstances, back Alan when Bawumia has been and continues to be of service to him.
“The moment Alan Kyerematen accepted the appointment as the trade minister under the Akufo-Addo in 2017 is where he left the race.
“Akufo-Addo will not against all odds propose Bawumia to be running mates against the stance of the party, work with him for 7 years and not stand with him at a point like this.
Following Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the race, the former Trade Minister cited his subpar performance at the party’s Super Delegates Conference and alleged interference by certain party leaders as the reasons behind his decision.
He expressed concern that the conference had been strategically tilted in favor of a particular aspirant and pointed to statements made by prominent party members before and after the elections as supporting evidence.
“The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, both direct and indirect, unleashed upon a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across all sixteen regions is unprecedented in the history of our Party. Furthermore, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region suffered severe damage to his eyesight as a result of his brave and unwavering efforts to ensure strict compliance with the rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections, as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark stain in the annals of our Party’s internal elections. These incidents, along with various reports of violence and collusion in other Voting Centers, are not only shocking but also reprehensible and inexcusable,” he added.
The Technical Advisor at the Office of the Vice President, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, has rejected the assertions made by Alan Kyerematen regarding the New Patriotic Party’s alleged use of intimidation tactics to secure support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia during the party’s Super Delegates Conference.
Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, in response to Mr. Kyerematen’s claim that government appointees are endorsing a specific candidate due to job-related fears, has dismissed these allegations as unsubstantiated.
During an interview with JoyNews on Wednesday, September 6, Dr. Mahama argued that if anyone were to raise concerns about intimidation, it should be in favor of Dr. Bawumia.
“In 2007, when majority of government appointees were supporting Mr Alan Kyerematen, he still cited intimidation so for me if there’s any person who has had intimidations either direct or indirect, it’s the vice president who should be complaining,” he said.
His statement comes in response to Mr. Kyerematen’s announcement on Tuesday, September 5, in which he withdrew from the party’s flagbearer race and cited several incidents that he believed marred the party’s Super Delegates Conference.
The NPP flagbearer aspirant said that “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular aspirant.”
The statement further said that pronouncements by some leading members of the party “both before and after the elections, also lend weight” to his observations.
“The level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly, unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions, is unprecedented in the history of our Party,” Mr Kyerematen said.
On the back of this, Dr Mahama labelled the former Trade and Industry Minister’s allegation as baseless and lacking factual support based on the election process.
“So to suggest that any activist or supporter of any of the candidates has been intimidated will be untrue. There were several Members of Parliament who supported other candidates, especially Mr Alan Kyerematen and nothing happened to them.”
“There were cabinet ministers of state who supported Mr Alan Kyerematen and nothing happened to them. There were CEOs who supported him and nothing happened to them, so to say that you have been threatened or your supporter has been threatened is to tell a lie and we must be bold enough to call out some of these things,” he said.
He urged Mr Kyerematen to take responsibility and refrain from making complaints about intimidation during the NPP Super Delegates election.
The leadership of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has responded to claims of intimidation at the Super Delegates Conference by former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen.
Alan Kyerematen while announcing his withdrawal from the NPP presidential race on Tuesday, September 5, noted that his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference was due to the “level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions.”
Mr Kyerematen has noted that his polling agent in the North East region has suffered severe damage to his eye sight, arising from his bold and courageous effort to ensure compliance with the very rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee.
In response, the party has not refuted or admitted to the claims.
However, in a press statement dated September 6, General Secretary, Justin Kodua noted that both the Elections Committee and the Disciplinary Committee have initiated comprehensive investigations into all reported incidents of violations and infractions that are alleged to have occurred at various voting centers during the super delegates election which was held on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
“We wish to reassure all stakeholders and the general public that the reports of the aforementioned committees will be made readily available and persons who may be found culpable of any wrongdoing will be held accountable,” the party concluded.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, has rubbished the assertion that former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, was let down by the people of Ashanti Region at the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Conference.
At the end of the elections in the Ashanti Region, Dr Bawumia polled 97 votes out of the 121 total valid votes cast. Alan Kyerematen, on the other hand, garnered just 10 votes, whereas Kennedy Agyapong polled 6 votes.
For some experts, this came as a surprise, as the assertion was that the people of the Ashanti Region would side with a native. That was not the case.
According to Mr Osei Mensah, the delegates cannot be blamed but rather the strategy employed by the aspirants. He noted other natives of the Ashanti Region such as Francis Addai-Nimo failed to secure a single vote.
“Honourable Konadu Apraku, is from Akomadan, he has been an MP before, why did he get. No votes, so what should he say.
“Addai-Nimo, he was Mampong MP, he is from the Ashanti Region, what did he get. What did Alan get. In the Ashanti Region, did Alan not get 10 votes? When Addai, after the entire counting had 9. So what should he say. Kwabena Agyapong, is he not from the Ashanti Region, what should he say,” he said in an interview on Peace FM.
Simon Osei Mensah added: “In this election, everyone has a strategy. Let me say I’m contesting and give promises, the delegates will come in their numbers but how many of them will vote for me. You should know the type of election you are going into.”
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has shed light on the probable cause for this achievement by the Vice President.
In an interview with Good Evening Ghana’s host, Paul Adom-Otchere, Chairman Wontumi noted that prior to the elections, the people of Ashanti Region had announced their support for the Vice President.
He noted that the condition given to him during the party’s congress that led to his election as Ashanti Regional Chair was for him to support the Vice President wholeheartedly.
“When I was running for elections, I told them. This is the message the people have given me that once I become a regional chairman, I should support the Vice President. You can ask all the constituency executives,” he said.
He alluded to the assertion that the super delegates who voted in favour of the Vice President had the blessing of the delegates who will partake in the November 4 primaries.
Meanwhile, former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has withdrawn from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential elections.
His official withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
According to the former minister, his withdrawal stems from his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference due to the interference of some leaders of the party.
In his statement, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
His withdrawal has been acknowledged by the party’s leadership.
The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has acknowledged receipt of Alan Kyerematen’s letter announcing his decision to withdraw from the upcoming Presidential Primaries.
The ruling party made this known in a press release issued on September 6, which was signed by General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong.
Earlier, Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, noted that the party has not received official communication regarding Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the presidential race.
He stated, “We have learned of this news through the media, but we have not officially received communication from a senior party member, Alan Kojo Kyerematen; the party has not yet officially received any communication (regarding his withdrawal).”
“The proper procedure would involve drafting a statement or a letter to the presidential elections committee… The elections committee will be prepared to receive him, his representatives, or his agents tomorrow (Wednesday) for the balloting,” he added.
But as it stands now, the party has been duly informed of Alan Kyerematen’s decision.
“The leadership of the New Patriotic Party hereby acknowledges the receipt of a letter dated September 5, 2023, signed by Hon. John Alan Kyerematen and the contents therein are duly noted. We note with regret Hon. Kyerematen’s decision to withdraw from the upcoming Presidential Primaries,” the Party noted in its statement.
Alan Kyerematen announced his withdrawal from the NPP presidential race on Tuesday, September 5, citing his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference and “level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions,” as reasons for his decision.
In response to his claims, the party has noted that both the Elections Committee and the Disciplinary Committee have initiated comprehensive investigations into all reported incidents of violations and infractions that are alleged to have occurred at various voting centers during the super delegates election which was held on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
“We wish to reassure all stakeholders and the general public that the reports of the aforementioned committees will be made readily available and persons who may be found culpable of any wrongdoing will be held accountable,” the party concluded.
Technical Advisor at the Office of the Vice President, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, has indicated that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team was not caught off guard by Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the party’s flagbearer race.
He emphasized that the party had anticipated Mr. Kyerematen’s decision and believed that he had recognized his chances in the party’s November primaries.
Mr. Mahama further explained that individuals with presidential ambitions should evaluate whether their candidacy makes sense and whether they can have a meaningful impact.
In his opinion, if he were in Mr. Kyerematen’s position, he would have made the same choice. He added that the former Trade and Industry Minister had consulted with political experts who advised him to withdraw from the race.
“So when we heard of the intended press conference to be organised by Mr Alan Kyerematen, we were clear in our minds that, that probably was going to be a platform to share with his supporters that he was no more on the road and that he has gotten to the round of the runway and it was going to be a difficult decision to take off so he would rather stop the plane than to crash in the plane.”
He added: “So it didn’t come to us as a surprise at all. What is different from the reasons Mr Alan Kyerematen gave for his resignation in 2008 or when he lost the elections to Nana Akufo-Addo? If you listen to the reasons, he mentioned then that there were intimidations of his party supporters across the country, the same reasons are given to us today by Mr Alan Kyerematen as the reasons why he is no more contesting.”
He also noted that the current spirit within the NPP is favoring the candidacy of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. This suggests that Mr. Kyerematen’s choice to withdraw from the flagbearer race aligns with the party’s overall direction.
Furthermore, the Technical Advisor at the Office of the Vice President emphasized that rather than attributing his decision to skewed voter registration, Mr. Kyerematen should take responsibility for his performance, as shifting blame is not a productive approach.
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has withdrawn from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential elections.
His official withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
According to the former minister, his withdrawal stems from his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference due to the interference of some leaders of the party.
In his statement, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
A member of the Communications Team of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alfred Thompson, has blamed delegates he describes as hypocritical for former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s, withdrawal from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential elections.
According to Mr Thompson, Mr Kyerematen was sweet-talked into believing he stood a great chance in his quest to becoming the NPP’s flagbearer for the 2024 elections.
He emphasised that the former Trade Minister wholeheartedly believed what was told him by delegates.
“To tell you the truth, if you listen to wholeheartedly to what delegates tell you, you will behave exactly like what has happened.
Because they will tell you all sorts of things just to make you happy and believe that you are going to win, and you will win convincingly. So when results come this way and you get those votes, you sit back and ask yourself, Is it that what the people are saying were true?” he quizzed during an interview on TV3.
Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s official withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
According to the former minister, his withdrawal stems from his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference due to the interference of some leaders of the party.
In his statement, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
If you listen wholeheartedly to what delegates tell you, you will behave exactly like what has happened – Alfred Thompson on Alan Kyerematen's withdrawal from the NPP flagbearer race.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/sGNWjDkav1
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference held on August 26, with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
With Mr Kyerematen out of the race, Mr Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimo will contest against Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is considered the front runner in the party’s presidential elections.
A member of the Communications Team of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alfred Thompson, has faulted former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, for wholeheartedly believing what was told him by delegates.
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has recently announced his withdrawal from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential elections.
His official withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
According to the former minister, his withdrawal stems from his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference due to the interference of some leaders of the party.
In his statement, he said: “After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
Reacting to this, Alfred Thompson noted that Mr Kyerematen could have avoided this if he had been circumspect while engaging delegates.
He suggested that the former Minister was sweet-talked by delegates into believing that he had a chance in the NPP primaries.
“To tell you the truth, if you listen to wholeheartedly to what delegates tell you, you will behave exactly like what has happened.
Because they will tell you all sorts of things just to make you happy and believe that you are going to win, and you will win convincingly. So when results come this way and you get those votes, you sit back and ask yourself, Is it that what the people are saying were true?” he quizzed.
If you listen wholeheartedly to what delegates tell you, you will behave exactly like what has happened – Alfred Thompson on Alan Kyerematen's withdrawal from the NPP flagbearer race.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/sGNWjDkav1
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference held on August 26, with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
With Mr Kyerematen out the race, Mr Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimo will contest against Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is considered the front runner in the party’s presidential elections.
New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, has clarified that the party has not received official communication regarding Alan Kyerematen’s withdrawal from the presidential race.
Speaking to the media on September 5, 2023, he emphasized that, as per the NPP’s perspective, Alan has not formally withdrawn from the flagbearer contest.
Mohammed mentioned that Alan, along with the other four contenders, is expected to participate in the ballot position selection for the November 4 primaries at the NPP headquarters.
He stated, “We have learned of this news through the media, but we have not officially received communication from a senior party member, Alan Kojo Kyerematen; the party has not yet officially received any communication (regarding his withdrawal).”
“The proper procedure would involve drafting a statement or a letter to the presidential elections committee… The elections committee will be prepared to receive him, his representatives, or his agents tomorrow (Wednesday) for the balloting,” he added.
Background:
A prominent figure in the NPP flagbearer race, Alan Kyerematen, withdrew on September 5, 2023, just one day before the party’s balloting for November’s Congress, which will determine the successor to Nana Akufo Addo as the party’s flagbearer.
Alan cited reasons such as the intimidation of delegates during the recent Super Delegates conference for his decision to exit the race.
This announcement confirmed earlier reports that the former Trade Minister intended to withdraw, as he had scheduled a press conference for Tuesday afternoon, which was later postponed until an official press statement was issued to confirm his decision.
It remains uncertain what Alan’s future plans entail, with unverified reports suggesting he may explore the possibility of running as an independent candidate in the 2024 General Elections.
During the Super Delegates Congress, Alan came in third place, behind Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong.
Alan Kyerematen‘s withdrawal from the NPP flagbearership race has sparked significant reactions, including comments from celebrities who have joined the ongoing discussion.
The NPP flagbearer contender made this surprising announcement on August 5, 2023, through a widely circulated statement on social media. His decision elicited shock and disappointment from the Ghanaian public.
“In light of the foregoing, I wish to confirm that I am honorably withdrawing from the process that will lead to the Presidential Primaries to be held on the 4th of November 2023. In the next upcoming weeks, I will provide an indication of the role that I will play in politics in Ghana, after consultations with my family and other well-wishers, various stakeholders and interest groups,” parts of the press statement read.
Mr. Kyerematen, who secured the third position in the party’s August 26 special delegates conference, explained his withdrawal from the race as a response to alleged intimidation of his agents and concerns that the race appeared biased in favor of a specific candidate.
This move has stirred diverse reactions among netizens. Some believe he should have persevered, while others endorse his decision.
Celebrities such as Serwaa Amihere, Afia Schwarzenegger, Nana Aba Anamoah, and more have weighed in with their own unique responses to this development.
On Sunday, the 27th of August 2023, I issued a public statement which made reference to the selection and shortlisting of Presidential Aspirants by the Special Electoral College convened by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the 26th of August 2023.
After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant.
The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations.
The level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions, is unprecedented in the history of our Party.
In addition, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region has suffered severe damage to his eye sight, arising from his bold and courageous effort to ensure compliance with the very rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark spot in the history of internal elections within the Party.
This incident and various acts of violence and collusion, reported in other Voting Centers, are appalling, unconscionable, and despicable. I am committed to, and value the safety of those who work with me and for me, and I will always fight for their interest.
The question I keep asking myself is, “How did we get here as a Party in the first place, and how far are we prepared to tread on this dangerous path to self-destruction?”
Regrettably, I am not convinced that the circumstances I have referred to earlier, will not persist or even be escalated in the next round of elections, for which balloting is scheduled for Wednesday, 6th of September 2023.
In light of the foregoing, I wish to confirm that I am honourably withdrawing from the process that will lead to the Presidential Primaries to be held on the 4th of November 2023.
In the next upcoming weeks, I will provide an indication of the role that I will play in politics in Ghana, after consultations with my family and other well- wishers, various stakeholders and interest groups.
I wish all the other Aspirants well as they continue on their journey. I also wish to use this opportunity to express my profound gratitude once again to my family, the Alan 4 President (A4P) Campaign Team, and all my teeming supporters in Ghana and from around the world, who have supported me in diverse ways over the years.
Please be assured that the battle is still the Lord’s, and that those who wait upon the Lord shall have their strength renewed.
God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong! .Signed…………. HON. ALAN KYEREMATEN
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has withdrawn from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential elections.
His official withdrawal is contained in a press statement issued on September 5, 2023, signed by himself.
According to the former minister, his withdrawal stems from his abysmal performance at the party’s just-ended Super Delegates Conference.
“After having carefully analysed the results of the said elections, it is absolutely clear to me from events leading to, during and after the elections, that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular Aspirant. The pronouncements made by some leading Members of our Party both before and after the elections, also lend weight to my observations,” he wrote.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference held on August 26, with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
In the recent release, Mr Alan Kyerematen further accused the party of allowing the “level of intimidation of varying intensity, directly and indirectly unleashed on a significant number of Delegates at various Voting Centers across the sixteen regions.”
This, he said, is unprecedented in the history of the NPP.
“In addition, the fact that my Polling Agent in the North East region has suffered severe damage to his eye sight, arising from his bold and courageous effort to ensure compliance with the very rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee, will forever remain a dark spot in the history of internal elections within the Party.
This incident and various acts of violence and collusion, reported in other Voting Centers, are appalling, unconscionable, and despicable,” he added.
Mr Kyerematen is of the assertion that the path allegedly taken by the party is one that would lead to “self-destruction.”
He is of the opinion that the challenges raised will be “escalated in the next round of elections, for which balloting is scheduled for Wednesday, 6th of September 2023.”
In view of the aforementioned matters, Mr Alan Kyerematen announced that he is “honourably withdrawing from the process that will lead to the Presidential Primaries to be held on the 4th of November 2023.”
He however revealed his intentions to update Ghanaians on the role he will play in the country’s politics in the next upcoming weeks.
Meanwhile, Mr Kyerematen has expressed his well wishes to the remaining individuals competing for the NPP flagbearership race.
“I wish all the other Aspirants well as they continue on their journey. I also wish to use this opportunity to express my profound gratitude once again to my family, the Alan 4 President (A4P) Campaign Team, and all my teeming supporters in Ghana and from around the world, who have supported me in diverse ways over the years.
“Please be assured that the battle is still the Lord’s, and that those who wait upon the Lord shall have their strength renewed,” he concluded.
With Mr Kyerematen out the race, Mr Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimo will contest against Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is considered the front runner in the party’s presidential elections.
