A leaked audio recording has surfaced online, purportedly featuring a private phone conversation involving Sylvester Tetteh, the Member of Parliament for Ngleshie Amanfro, and an individual identified as a polling station executive.
In the brief 2-minute and 15-second audio clip, which has gained traction on social media, a voice that Ghanaweb has attributed to the MP, can be heard expressing his fury without restraint as he hurls demeaning words at the person on the other end of the call.
Sounding infuriated, the voice reported to be that of Sylvester Tetteh, referred to the other person on the line as a fool and an illiterate who does not deserve to have an opinion.
The angry voice proceeded to issue what seemed to a warning to the polling station executive.
The MP, while spewing further derogatory words, firmly advised the caller not to discuss him or his preferences. He admonished the executive never to comment about him or his decision to support Alan Kyerematen again.
He is reported to have said, if even the caller who is an illiterate has the freedom to make choices, then he, too, has the same privilege without objection.
“I detest nonsense, do you understand me? Do you believe we are equals? Even someone like you has the ability to make choices. Let this be the last time you mention my name in connection with my decision on any platform. You, an illiterate who cannot even write his name, can also make choices. Let me make it clear; from this day forward, if you dare write or record anything about me and my support for Alan, the consequences will be far from pleasant for you. Do you hear me?” he is quoted to have said.
The angry person then proceeds to question the caller’s political knowledge, warning him not to meddle in his choices again.
Mr Alan Kojo Kyeremateng
Sylvester Tetteh who is reportedly behind the angry voice, also hinted that if provoked, his reaction would be uncontrollable, cautioning the other party to steer clear of his affairs.
“I am not issuing threats… a fool like you… even someone like you can make choices… even if you are older than me and you misbehave, do you not expect me to address it? Are you rational? Have you received an education? What is your grasp of politics? Can you even write your name? Let me reiterate that from this point onward, if I catch wind of you discussing me or my choice of a leader, you will experience the consequences of your actions. If you are a man, challenge me, and you can interpret this as a threat or anything you wish,” he adds.
The exact date of this conversation remains unclear, but according to a GhanaWeb’s report, the exchange between the two individuals initially began in a WhatsApp group chat, after which the MP felt compelled to initiate a phone call.
GhanaWeb’s source also indicates that the person on the other end of the line may have also hurled insults at the MP, although such remarks were not captured in the audio shared online.
A presidential aspirant of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, will not announce the future course of his campaign after the party’s Super Delegates’ Conference today as expected.
The former Trade Minister was to hold “Alan Speaks” at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
Immediately after the election on Saturday, August 26, the former Trade and Industry Minister notified the public of his intention to conduct a public address outlining the way forward for his campaign, following a thorough analysis of the election results.
In his statement, Mr. Kyerematen, who secured the third position in the election, strongly criticized the reported assault on his North-East Regional Coordinator during the voting day.
He deemed the incident as unjustified and unnecessary, emphasizing that his representative had committed no wrongdoing at the voting center.
But in a Twitter post on Tuesday, September 5, Mr Alan Kyerematen noted that the presser has been cancelled. He failed to disclose the reason behind this new development.
However, he did apologise to the members of the general public for any inconvenience caused by his decision.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen is reportedly considering announcing his withdrawal from the upcoming November 4 Presidential Primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This decision follows a disappointing performance in the recently held Super Delegates Conference, where he placed third behind Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong.
In the NPP Special Delegates Conference, Kyerematen garnered only 95 out of 961 votes, securing a distant third position. Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia received 629 votes (68.15%), while Kennedy Agyapong surprisingly secured 132 votes (14.30%) to claim the second spot.
Kyerematen, a three-time flagbearer aspirant, had been expected to perform well in the primaries, and his third-place finish, behind both Dr. Bawumia and Agyapong, has raised concerns within his campaign.
A source close to Kyerematen’s campaign revealed that they are considering several options, including withdrawing from the race altogether, forming an alliance with another candidate, or continuing the process despite the challenges.
The source stated, “We have had an extensive review of the Super Delegates election, and to be honest, the numbers we registered across the country in the Super Delegates were not what we expected.
Even though we have publicly expressed our displeasure with the process, the reality is that things are not so good on the ground, and we have to honestly admit and take bold decisions.”
Among these options, withdrawal appears to be a prominent consideration, with discussions about potential mergers with other candidates who performed poorly. However, no final decision has been made yet.
Kyerematen is expected to address these concerns in a speech scheduled for Tuesday.
The source added, “Chief will speak tomorrow, and all options are open, but don’t be surprised if he announces his withdrawal tomorrow.”
Many within Kyerematen’s camp, especially coordinators across the country, reportedly support the idea of withdrawal to protest the Super Delegates’ election process and avoid further humiliation in the November primaries.
However, some also believe that participating in the race, regardless of the outcome, may be politically necessary.
The final decision is expected to be made ahead of Kyerematen’s address.
The New Patriotic Party’s Presidential Candidate, Alan Kyerematen, will unveil his campaign’s future plans today, September 5, 2023, following the Super Delegates’ Conference.
After the recent election on August 26, the former Trade and Industry Minister notified the public of his intent to deliver a public address outlining the campaign’s direction after analyzing the election results.
This address, set for 2:00 pm at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, will be broadcast on major radio and television stations and on social media platforms.
In his statement, Mr. Kyerematen, who finished third in the election, condemned the reported assault on his North-East Regional Coordinator during the voting day, deeming it unjustified and unnecessary as his representative committed no wrongdoing at the voting center. He also expressed that this incident marred the party’s internal democratic process.
“I would however like to express my deep sorrow about the brutal assault on my polling agent in the North East Region. This is an indelible blot on the integrity of the internal democratic process within the NPP.”
“I wish my colleague a speedy recovery and God’s manifold blessings and would like to assure him and his family of my unwavering support for his well-being,” an excerpt of his release said.
Ali Zakaria was reportedly assaulted by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s supporters when he tried to prevent a delegate from publicly displaying their cast ballot.
In response, Mr. Kyerematen has issued a stern warning, stating that he will not tolerate further attacks on his supporters. He emphasized that it makes no sense for supporters of any candidate to be subjected to violence during the election process within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking to the media after visiting Zakaria, Mr. Kyerematen declared, “I am not going to tolerate this kind of behavior. It doesn’t make sense, and when we cannot conduct ourselves as a family trying to select a leader in a peaceful and organized manner, how do we intend to be able to do the same kind of process when we have 200,000 plus people gathered?”
During the initial selection exercise to choose five candidates for the main election in November, Mr. Kyerematen’s performance was surprising to many, as he was considered the main rival to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Dr. Bawumia received 629 votes (68.15% of the total), while Mr. Kyerematen secured 95 votes (10.82%), and Kennedy Agyapong, the Assin Central MP, came in second with 132 votes (15.03%).
The Majority Leader and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has strongly condemned certain statements and tribal prejudices expressed by supporters of former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.
These followers of Mr. Kyerematen alleged that delegates in the Ashanti Region had betrayed a candidate from their own region by casting their votes in favor of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Speaking on GhanAkoma morning show with Aduanaba Kofi Asante Ennin on Akoma FM in Kumasi, the Member of Parliament for Suame said, “Alan is not the only Asante man who contested and people should stop accusing delegates in the Region of betraying Alan Kyerematen in the just ended national special delegates congress.”
According to him, such statements do not contribute positively to the party’s unity. He emphasized that regardless of which presidential hopeful emerges as the winner, they will require the support of other candidates to secure victory in the 2024 general elections.
He highlighted that individuals such as Dr. Kofi Konadu, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Francis Addai-Nimoh, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and others all hail from the Ashanti Region, and therefore, singling out one individual is not warranted.
He stressed that a candidate’s supporters alone cannot guarantee the party’s success in the 2024 general elections. He emphasized that all aspirants and their supporters will be crucial in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.
Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu expressed his belief that the former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, is a dedicated party member and should not be ruled out ahead of the race in November.
He dismissed media reports suggesting that NPP delegates in the Ashanti Region betrayed Alan Kyerematen during the recently concluded super delegates’ conference. He noted that Ashanti Region delegates tend to support worthy causes, and their voting behavior reflects this approach.
“They don’t discriminate. They are loyal people and look at things objectively without consideration to the tribal lines.”
Researcher and Statistician Prof. Smart Sarpong has asserted that Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia stands a 92% likelihood of emerging victorious in the New Patriotic Party’s delegates’ election scheduled for November 4.
Additionally, he assessed Kennedy Agyapong’s prospects at 61.5% and former Trades Minister Alan Kyerematen‘s chances at 46.6%.
He thus entreated the two other contenders, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimoh to contemplate forming alliances with one of the leading three contenders, as their chances of securing victory are extremely slim.
The researcher sets out to provide statistical justification that the recent Super Delegates’ Congress has the possibility of influencing choices of delegates in the main polls in November.
Prof. Smart Sarpong explained the mechanism of his 961 sample size from the super delegates.
“There is something we call elevation factor which means divide the population by the sample, now you go to the reasonableness of the elevation factor. The question I asked myself is whether the caliber of people who voted, if they can have influence over the others, for me it is Yes.”
“These estimates are founded on statistical laws. My margin of error is only 3.2% and my confidence interval is 95% ”, the statistician said.
By the formula, he said the ability of the super delegates to influence their subordinates to vote for their choices improves the chances of the desired candidate.
According to him, the numbers show that supporters of Dr. Bawumia have a task to convince at least 301 electors to brighten his chances of winning.
Prof. Sarpong indicated that the 132 delegates who voted for Kennedy Agyapong will have to win 1,434 members with each of the 95 faithful of Alan Kyerematen mobilizing up to 1,992 delegates to vote their choice.
“The question I asked myself is whether there is any constituency Chairman who cannot influence 210 members of his constituency?”
“If you are Chairman of a constituency and you cannot mobilize 210 people then you are not worthy”, Prof. Sarpong explained.
Meanwhile, the statistician believes the NPP must set standards for candidates rather than choosing first five persons who file nominations to contest.
“They rather have to set pass mark and not merely looking for five”, he concluded.
The Deputy Spokesperson for Alan Kyerematen’s campaign, Richard Nyamah, has expressed that the recent events during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) super delegates’ conference have served as a tough lesson for their team.
He emphasized that relying solely on the party’s leadership is no longer a viable strategy.
Nyamah pointed out that the party’s failure to promptly address widely reported electoral irregularities and incidents of violence, particularly the assault on an electoral agent from the Alan campaign team, sends a clear signal that they must fend for themselves.
In response, he stated that their faction has decided to no longer place unwavering trust in the party’s leadership. Instead, they are taking proactive measures to safeguard their interests in preparation for the upcoming November 4 polls.
Speaking on JoyFM, he said, “What we have learnt from this very conduct is that we would have to be our own keeper. We will be prepared and ready on November 4th. We are not going to put our faith in the party because they have shown us that they can’t be trusted.
“They will bring guidelines, the guidelines on the D-day are flouted across the country and nobody is interested in that. When you’re done they will take you through constitutional processes that end in nothing.
“So, we would make sure that we are ready physically, spiritually whatever way it is on the D-day. We’re not going to wait for anything to repeat itself and then we’ll go reporting and having investigations. It’s an aftereffect. The point is that fortunately, this is a learning curve, they have taught us the hard way.”
Mr. Nyamah has leveled accusations against the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), alleging that they are practicing selective justice.
He asserts that despite an incident in which a regional coordinator from the Alan Kyerematen campaign team was assaulted in Nalerigu, located in the North East region during the super delegates’ conference, the party has not taken any steps to support the victim or denounce the violence that transpired.
Nyamah contends that the party’s actions and inactions are conveying a distinct message that individuals associated with the Alan team are not welcome within the party.
He said, “Do you realise since this incident happened, it’s been four days? Have you heard or seen any condemnation officially from the NPP as a party? The NPP as a party has officially not reached out to us, not the agent that was beaten to pulp and his eye virtually bulged out, nobody has bothered because it doesn’t matter, it has happened to an Alan agent.”
Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has personally condemned the attack on his campaign coordinator.
The NPP flagbearer aspirant asserted that the party should not “put a shine on this kind of incident”, adding he was frankly disturbed by the incident.
Presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has expressed displeasure against the brutal assault on his polling agent in the North East Region during the party’s Super Delegates Conference over the weekend.
In a press statement, the aspirant noted that such an incident dents the internal democratic process within the party.
“I would however like to express my deep sorrow about the brutal assault on my polling agent in the North East Region. This is an indelible blot on the integrity of the internal democratic process within the NPP.”
However, Walibe Amos, the Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the North-East region, has contested the severity of the incident involving the campaign coordinator for Alan Kyeremanten.
In an official press statement, he refuted claims that the agent, Ali Zakaria, was assaulted by supporters of the flagbearer aspirant, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mr. Walibe clarified that the event was, in fact, a dispute between the said agent and the regional youth organizer of the party, emphasizing that it did not involve any act of violence by individuals commonly referred to as “thugs.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Kyerematen has conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the members of the Special Electoral College for choosing him as one of the presidential contenders in the upcoming November 4th primaries.
The former Trade Minister, expressed his gratitude to the God Almighty for His grace and guidance throughout his journey.
Furthermore, Mr. Kyerematen extended his thanks to the delegates, acknowledging their trust and confidence in him.
“I wish to use this opportunity to thank the Almighty God for His grace and mercy in guiding my path this far,” Kyerematen said.
He placed third among the five candidates needed to contest the primaries.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference 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 tie between Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai-Nimoh, a run-off election will be held for both of them on Saturday, September 2, 2023, to decide which of them will join the primaries.
Kyerematen has announced that the A4P Campaign Coordination team is presently in the process of analyzing the outcomes of the Special Electoral College Election. He conveyed that later this week, he intends to address the public, outlining the path ahead for his campaign.
Additionally, he offered reassurance to his numerous supporters, especially those at the grassroots level, affirming that ultimate victory is in the hands of the divine. He reminded them that those who patiently rely on the Lord will find their strength renewed.
A leading member of the Alan Kyerematen flagbearership campaign in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hopeson Adorye, has accused Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, of offering delegates money at the just ended Super Delegates Conference.
He noted that the Chief of Staff was trying to please and work in favour of a particular candidate since she has aspirations of becoming a Vice President under the leadership of that candidate.
“I am saying that people who have been in the government for these years, they are even old ladies, they still want to continue, so, do you think she is going to vote in a certain direction,” he quizzed when asked about Alan’s performance in the polls.
“An old lady wants to be a Vice President, how much more the young ones?” he asked.
When pushed about who this old lady was, he referenced the chief of staff citing an electoral malpractice allegation.
“Chief of Staff was here giving money to people, are we afraid? What I fear I don’t talk about.
“You’re done voting, go home. She (Chief of Staff) went to sit in the office of the Women’s Organizer and was calling people and giving them money after voting. This is total indiscipline…” he blasted.
The Western Region has declared its results for the NPP Super Delegates Conference, which took place on Saturday, August 26, 2023. The election was held to select five presidential aspirants out of 10 candidates who would compete for the NPP flagbearership in 2024.
According to the results, the current Vice-President and frontrunner, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, emerged as the clear winner with 31 votes, representing 66.0% of the total votes cast. He was followed by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Alan John Kyeremanteng, who received 7 votes, representing 14.9% of the total votes cast.
The other candidates who received votes in the Western Region were the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who got 3 votes (6.4%), the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, who also got 3 votes (6.4%), and the former Minister of Railways Development, Mr. Joe Ghartey, who got 1 vote (2.1%).
The remaining candidates who did not receive any vote in the Western Region were the former General Secretary of the NPP, Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, the former Member of Parliament for Mampong, Mr. Francis Addai-Nimoh, the former Technology Director of the NPP, Mr. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, the former Minister of State, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, and the former Minister of Energy, Mr. Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko.
The Western Region had a total of 47 delegates who voted in the election, out of which 46 valid votes were counted and one rejected ballot was recorded.
Alan Kojo Kyeremateng’s campaign team has taken a swipe at the visually impaired activist, Duodu Bulgaria, after he predicted that Alan Kyeremateng would lose to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
A prominent member of Alan Kyeremateng’s social media campaign team, Benjamin Akowuah, expressed his hope that Duodu Bulgaria, despite his blindness, would somehow gain the ability to witness Alan Kyeremateng’s victory.
In a Facebook post he said “the Only Person I am Sad that he will not see the Victory of Chief Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen is a so called “Blind Historian”.
The post garnered negative reactions, with many finding it distasteful. Some comments pointed out the uncertainty of the future and cautioned against such assertions.
One commenter criticized the tone of the post: “Benjamin Akowuah, this post is inappropriate. No one knows what the future holds, so be cautious.”
Another comment suggested that Duodu Bulgaria, despite being visually impaired, might have a deeper understanding: “He may lack physical sight, but he seemingly perceives more than you, who have your vision intact. Doesn’t that say a lot?”
Duodu Bulgaria’s Statements:
Last week, Duodu Bulgaria, the blind historian, advised former trade minister Alan Kyeremateng to abandon his presidential aspirations, deeming them unattainable.
Bulgaria reiterated these sentiments in an interview with the media. He claimed that it would be easier to bring the dead back to life than for Alan Kyeremateng to become the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer.
“Apart from raising the dead to come back to life, the next most difficult thing is for Alan Kyerematen to become NPP flagbearer,” he told Kofi Adomah. Refreshing the memory of viewers, Bulgaria said Alan’s written and signed resignation in 2007 was the end of his political ambition” He said.
Bulgaria’s interview appears to have stirred controversy within the Alan Kyeremateng camp, just 48 hours before the New Patriotic Party Superdelegates conference on Saturday, August 26.
In a poll conducted by GhanaWeb regarding the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) superdelegates congress, netizens have decided on the five individuals they would want to see contest for the flagbearership position.
The poll, held from Monday, August 7, 2023, to Friday, August 11, 2023, attracted participation from over 70,000.The question posed was, “Who would you vote for in the NPP Super Delegates Congress?”
Among the 70,463 respondents, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong secured the lead with 18,475 votes, representing more than 26 percent of the total participants.
Former Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, claimed the second spot with 18,143 votes, which accounted for nearly 26 percent of the respondents.
Notably, energy expert Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku achieved a surprising third place, amassing 17,041 votes, equivalent to over 24 percent of the participants.
This outcome surpassed the expectations, especially as he outperformed Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, a major contender in the race.
Vice President Bawumia secured the fourth position, garnering 13,131 votes, which constituted almost 19 percent of the total respondents.
Securing the fifth spot, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong garnered support from 2,042 participants, which accounted for nearly 3 percent of the total respondents, surpassing 70,000.
The remaining contenders in the poll, namely former Minister of Justice Joe Ghartey, former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, ex-Member of Parliament for Mampong Francis Addai Nimo, former Minister for Regional Cooperation Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, and former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko, each received less than 1 percent of the total votes cast.
The NPP presidential primaries, scheduled for August and November 2023, will feature 10 contestants.
The NPP’s superdelegates conference is set to take place on August 26, 2023, aimed at narrowing down the contenders to five. Subsequently, the main primaries will occur on November 4, 2023, to determine the party’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
Aspiring New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer Alan Kyerematen has given party delegates the unwavering assurance that, should he be chosen to lead the party in the 2024 general elections, a resounding victory can be anticipated over the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to the former Minister of Trade and Industry, the party requires a candidate capable of securing votes even from the opposition’s stronghold areas, notably the Volta region.
Alan Cash, as he’s widely known, believes he is the right candidate who can be in a nip-and-tuck race against the NDC to ensure the NPP actualises its mantra, ‘break the eight’.
He says his recent tour in the Volta region’s capital, Ho, saw a mammoth welcome and jamboree, affirming their love for him.
Addressing delegates in Besoro, Ashanti region, Mr. Kyerematen emphasized that the residents of the region have pledged their support to vote the NPP into power if he becomes the chosen presidential candidate.
“The Volta region is the stronghold of the NDC. We need to elect someone who can beat the opposition there. When I went to the Volta region, they told me after the demise of J.J. Rawlings, I am their new favorite,” he said.
The former minister also assured delegates of amassing votes in the swing regions including Western, Central and Greater Accra regions.
The Ashanti region has been the voting powerhouse of the ruling New Patriotic Party since the inception of the Fourth Republic.
In the last elections, the region voted over 1.5 million to elect the then Presidential candidate, Nana Akufo-Addo into his second term in office.
Mr. Kyerematen contends he can amass more votes for the party from the region if elected as flagbearer.
“I can win 2 million votes for the party in the Ashanti region. This can help the party make a landslide win against the NDC in the 2024 elections,” he assured delegates
Meanwhile, Deputy Railway Development Minister, Kwaku Asante-Boateng, has expressed his dissatisfaction at how some members of the Bawumia camp blatantly snubbed him during a campaign visit to constituencies in the Asante Akyem area.
The Member of Parliament for the Asante Akyem South Constituency says he is hurt by the actions of the Bawumia camp who saw him as an outlier.
He has thus announced his loyalty to Alan Kyerematen, describing him as a brother.
“When Vice President Bawumia came to Asakari, we decided to go and welcome him and some members of his team who were aboard a bus, none of them greeted me when I extended a handshake. You can’t disrespect me and expect me to join your campaign. I am hurt by their actions. Alan Kyerematen is my brother, I can’t denounce him. If Alan wins or not, I will support him. If I don’t support him, his campaign would be worthless. They’re not accepting me as one of theirs, why should I waste my time with them?” he said.
There was a rousing welcome by delegates and pro-Alan supporters as the former Trades Minister began his tour in the region, paying a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of Ejisu where he hails from.
Nana Afrane Okese IV blessed the flagbearer hopeful, throwing a challenge to his detractors over Mr. Kyerematen’s victory in the upcoming party election.
Leading contender in theNPP flagbearer race, Alan Kyerematen, has reconfirmed his candidature, asserting that his extensive experience, visionary insights, and contributions to the party since 1992 surpass those of the other nine contenders.
During an address to delegates from the Ahafo Ano South, South West, and South East constituencies on August 9, 2023, Kyerematen emphasised his leadership credentials within the party.
The former Minister of Trade and Industry highlighted his inclusion among 100 global leaders recognised by Time magazine in 1994, alongside figures like American President J.F. Kennedy and billionaire Bill Gates.
He underscored his vision to generate more employment opportunities and enhance the lives of Ghanaians, given the opportunity.
Referred to as ‘Alan Cash,’ Kyerematen cited the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative as a testament to his track record, pointing out the ongoing construction of around 300 factories at various stages of completion.
He also spotlighted the Presidential Special Initiatives (PSI) program, which facilitated integrated agricultural and industrial projects during both the administrations of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Kyerematen’s unifying attributes were underscored, particularly his willingness to step down during the 2007 primaries to prevent a potentially divisive runoff, exemplifying his commitment to party cohesion.
Asserting that securing victory depends on votes, Kyerematen pledged to secure two million votes from the Ashanti Region if entrusted with the party’s leadership in the upcoming presidential primaries in November.
Urging the delegates to place their trust in his experience, vision, and contributions, Kyerematen appealed for their support in leading the party to triumph and securing a break from the two-term cycle, or “break the 8.”
During the same event, Saddique Boniface, Coordinator of the ‘Alan for President’ campaign and former Minister for Zongos and Inner-City Development, as well as a former MP for Madina, positioned Alan Kyerematen as the prospective third NPP president of the 4th Republic.
Boniface believed that Muslims from the northern regions and Zongo constituencies would greatly support Alan and encouraged attendees to follow suit.
Speaking at the same forum, Saddique Boniface, Coordinator of the ‘Alan for President’ campaign and a former Minister for Zongos and Inner-City Development, as well as a former MP for Madina, described Alan Kyerematen as the third NPP president of the 4th Republic.
Boniface believed Muslims from the northern regions, and theZongo constituencies, would vote massively for Alan, and urged the gathering to do the same.
A hopeful candidate for the flagbearer position in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has reportedly unveiled an ambitious plan to overhaul the party by the year 2030.
According to reports, the plan, titled “Transformation and Modernization of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) – Agenda 2030,” comprises ten key pillars.
The plan, introduced on Friday, August 11, 2023, aims to invigorate the NPP, making it a more dynamic, efficient, and all-encompassing political entity.
Central to the plan is an emphasis on expanding the NPP’s membership and bolstering the party’s financial stability through the establishment of party-run businesses.
Furthermore, the plan seeks to provide comprehensive support for grassroots party executives, including the provision of salaries and insurance coverage for their roles.
Another critical focus of the plan is the enhancement of the party’s administrative infrastructure, ensuring its strength and efficacy.
Alan Kyerematen’s strategic vision for the NPP outlines a comprehensive roadmap for transformation and modernization, potentially paving the way for a revitalized and influential political organization.
Below are the 10 pillars of Alan’s plan to transform the NPP below:
1. Aggressively expanding the membership base of the Party, focusing particularly on the Youth and Women, and introducing a Membership Reward Scheme to incentivize Party members.
2. Enhancing the financial strength of the Party by establishing commercially viable medium and large-scale Party-owned business enterprises, and other investment activities.
3. Promoting the welfare of Party Executives and other officials of the Party at all levels of the Party structure, including but not limited to the payment of salaries/allowances, and the establishment of a Pension Scheme for Party officials.
4. Strengthening the management, organizational and operational efficiency of the Party’s Field Executives and Administrative staff.
5. Building the Policy research and analytical capacity of the Party. 6. Integrating more fully the Party’s External Branches into the activities of the Party, as well as identifying talents to fill executive positions in government.
7. Strengthening Government-Party relations and interactions by institutionalizing regular consultations on matters related to government and party administration.
8. Reviewing the Party’s Constitution and other legal instruments to respond to and reflect current political dynamics.
9. Establishing strategic partnerships between the Party and relevant local and international institutions and organisations, including political affiliations.
10. Modernizing Party infrastructure and other facilities of the Party across the country.
Delegates from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who had gathered to meet the party’s presidential candidate hopeful, Alan Kyeremanten, reportedly found themselves stranded following their meeting with him in Besoro.
According to the delegates who were left stranded, Mr. Kyeremanten and his campaign team departed from the campaign grounds immediately after the session concluded.
Several of the delegates have voiced their disappointment with Mr. Kyeremanten’s failure to arrange transportation for their return to their respective constituencies.
In a media interview, one of the delegates remarked that this incident suggests that this is how Mr. Kyeremanten might treat dedicated party members if he were to become the party’s flagbearer.
“This is what Alan has done to us. After his campaign, he has left us stranded here. He has moved with his V8s and left without seeing to our return.”
“See how we are stranded here like people who don’t have anything to do. We are delegates from Kumawu and Drobonso,” one of the delegates said.
A member affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kumawu, Madam Akua Afriyie, has faced expulsion due to her public declaration of support for Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a hopeful candidate from the opposing New Patriotic Party.
Despite her membership within the National Democratic Congress, Afriyie openly expressed her admiration for Alan Kyerematen’s bid for the NPP presidency. Her bold proclamation was captured in a viral video during the Kumawu by-election.
Afriyie disclosed that she was relieved of her position shortly after the video gained widespread attention. In the video, she did not hesitate to state her willingness to back Alan as the NPP’s flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Her rationale was that she believed Alan possessed a visionary outlook that could positively impact the nation and instill hope among the younger generation.
This revelation propelled her into the center of political discussions, a development that did not sit well with her NDC associates.
Consequently, the party chose to dismiss her from her role. In the aftermath of her removal, Akua Afriyie has embraced the status of a floating voter, indicating that her allegiance is now unattached and her political preferences up for consideration.
“I am currently not a member of the NDC or a member of the NPP but l am a strong supporter of Mr. Kyerematen”.
She strongly cautioned that if the NPP were to deny Mr. Kyerematen the opportunity to lead the party, she, Akua, would opt to abstain from participating in the 2024 elections altogether.
Simultaneously, the constituency delegates gathered at the Durbar for the Kumawu, Afram Plains, and Effiduase Asokore constituencies in remarkable numbers. During the event, these delegates expressed their determination that Alan’s victory would not be obstructed this time around.
In a unanimous chorus, the delegates assured that the Ghanaian populace is now exceptionally vigilant and will not allow themselves to be caught off guard. They argued that it is undeniably Alan’s moment to guide the party, and no obstacle should hinder his path this time.
The campaign team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant Alan Kyerematen has expressed hope that the party’s Presidential Elections Committee and National Executive Council (NEC) will promptly address discrepancies in the special delegates conference register.
In an August 2 letter, the team identified five anomalies, including the eligibility of the Chief of Staff to vote in the super delegates’ conference on August 26.
Sylvester Tetteh, a member of Alan’s campaign team and MP for Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro, highlighted some of the obvious discrepancies.
He pointed out that the Chief of Staff, who is not an NEC member, was erroneously included. Tetteh also noted a duplication of the Ashanti Regional Second Vice Chairperson in the register.
Tetteh emphasized that former MPs are ineligible, only current members qualify. He further clarified that attending NEC meetings doesn’t confer eligibility, contrary to the party’s election regulations.
While awaiting NEC’s response, Tetteh expressed optimism that corrective measures will be taken.
“The Chief of Staff is not a member of the National Executive Committee, but she has been captured as a member, and we have drawn the attention of the elections committee to that correction. Additionally, the Ashanti Regional Second Vice Chairperson has been duplicated in the same album, and these are some of the things we are bringing to their attention.”
“Former members of parliament are not eligible, only sitting members are eligible, and also, the Chief of Staff may be invited to NEC meetings, but that does not make one eligible, and that is not correct in the regulation of elections of our party.”
“We are yet to get a response from NEC, but we are hopeful that they will do the right thing,” Mr. Tetteh added.
It appears flagbearer hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen may not be welcomed by all during his constituency delegates durbar in the Ashanti Region.
On Tuesday, July 28, 2023, the former Trade Minister announced his decision to return “home” to engage the over 35,000 cherished kingmakers of the NPP from July 28 to August 2, 2023.
The week-long campaign has however been pushed forward to start on August 7 and end on August 12.
Alan Kyerematen is expecting a rousing welcome but that may not the case.
On July 30, a Tweep criticised the aspirant for failing to remember the Ashanti Region during his time as a government official.
You never did anything for asanteman Always thinking of Accra
— The Untold African Story (@ourafricanst) July 30, 2023
According to the user, @ourafricanst, Alan Kyerematen “never did anything for Asanteman” as he was “always thinking of Accra.”
It is unknown if more others hold the same assertion.
But is the concern raised substantive? In October 2022, when Alan Kyerematen held the position of Trade Minister, the Ashanti Region was a beneficiary of 21 out of the 125 factories under the One District One Factory (1D1F) initiative.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, noted that about 30 more factories were at various stages of completion.
Alan confident about Ashanti Region
During an interview on Angel FM on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, Mr. Kyerematen expressed the viewpoint that the party necessitates a candidate capable of securing no less than 80 percent of the votes in the Ashanti Region.
The ex-Trade Minister further stated that he possesses the capability not only to secure the party’s support by over 80 percent of votes in the Ashanti Region but also to amass a substantial number of votes from the strongholds of the major opposition party, the NDC.
“We are not just looking for a flagbearer, we are looking for someone who can help the NPP retain power… Everybody knows that the Ashanti Region is the backbone of the NPP… And so for a difficult election, which I perceive is going to happen in 2024, you need a candidate that is going to win at least 80 percent of the votes in the Ashanti Region to guarantee us victory.
“You need a candidate who can do two things, consolidate your base and reduce the strength of your opponent. We all know that the base of the NDC is the Volta Region but many people have been asking why Voltarians like me so much.
“Everybody in Ghana knows that the people of the Volta Region have taken me to be one of them. I believe that I am the candidate who can win 80 percent of the votes in the Ashanti Region and also compete with the NDC in the Volta Region for their votes to be reduced,” he said in Twi.
A member of the Alan Kyerematen campaign team, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, has declared Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen as the most suitable candidate to tackle the pressing issues facing Ghana.
In an interview with the media, he expressed confidence that if elected as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate and eventually becomes Ghana’s president in the 2024 polls, Mr. Kyerematen will effectively address the country’s challenges, particularly the issue of unemployment.
Asamoa acknowledged that the former Trade and Industry Minister cannot be absolved of responsibility concerning the current economic crisis.
However, he emphasized that Kyerematen is fully prepared to provide solutions to the country’s problems.
He asserted that what Ghanaians seek is leadership that offers practical solutions, and Alan Kyerematen’s track record with GTP (Ghana Textile Printing) demonstrates his ability to provide such solutions.
As the party markets him to the nation, they are confident that Kyerematen’s leadership will resonate with the people.
Acknowledging the difficulties faced in governance and the economy, Asamoa highlighted past leaders’ achievements in addressing specific issues.
He then pointed out that Ghana now needs a leader who can focus on job creation, a domain where Alan Kyerematen has proven expertise.
Asamoa extolled Kyerematen’s accomplishments over the years and called on delegates to vote for him, stressing the importance of entrusting leadership to an experienced problem-solving leader. According to Asamoa, Kyerematen has demonstrated his capacity to establish frameworks for job opportunities, making him the right person for the job.
This endorsement reflects the belief within the Alan Kyerematen campaign team that he possesses the necessary attributes and solutions to address Ghana’s challenges and lead the country forward.
Ahead of the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) super delegates conference to sieve out the number of presidential hopefuls for the party’s primaries, a spiritual interpretation into the ballot numbers selected by each aspirant has surfaced.
On the ballot, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong appears first, followed by former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen in the second position.
Essikado-Ketan MP Joe Ghartey comes in at number three, Energy Expert Kwadwo Poku at number four, while Dr Afriyie Akoto, former Minister for Food and Agriculture will take the fifth position.
Also, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong is sixth on the ballot, former Member of Parliament for Mampong Constituency Addai Nimo takes the seventh slot, followed by former Trade Minister Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku at number eight.
Mr. Boakye Agyarko, a former Energy Minister is at number nine and lastly, the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is at number 10.
According to NPP stalwart, Rev. Dr Adom Tuffuor, each of the numbers has a spiritual connotation. He is said to be equipped in the study of numbers – numerology or numeration.
Prior to the explanation, he noted that the significance does not have any direct relationship with the associated aspirants and that “all candidates must work towards winning”.
Number 1 – This signifies creation or the beginning. According to Rev, Dr Tuffuor, this is a number that represents God Almighty. “It also depicts unity,” he added.
He recounted a revelation he had in 2020 where the NPP leadership and government officials had met at the Jubilee House to look at ways to combat corruption.
During discussions, he noted that all but one remained. According to him, the said individual who stayed put forms part of the 10 individuals contesting for the flagbearership position. He withheld the identity of the said individual.
Number 2 – This represents “Witness”. It can also stand for division or separation.
“The Bible says how can two walk together unless they agree,” he said.
Number 3 – The God-head. This, he said shows the trinity of God Almighty – the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. For him, it symbolizes “divine completeness”. It also signifies obedience, imitate and likeness.
Number 4 – This number he said signifies Creation. It also stands for the four seasons as well as kingdom, with respect to power or dominance.
Number 5 – This signifies Grace. It also represents atonement, service. Individuals within this region, he says serve.
Number 9 – The number represents fruitfulness. This is an individual who he says will have a massive impact on the country.
Number 10 – This shows law and order. According to him, such an individual is law abiding and ensures all respect the law. This is also a number that represents trial, test and responsibility.
After the explanation, Rev. Dr Adom Tuffuor reiterated that each candidate must justify his inclusion as the numbers does not automatically have an effect on one’s life.
A visually impaired historian has asserted that aspiring New patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer and former Trades Minister, Alan Kyerematen, is unlikely to emerge winner of the upcoming NPP Presidential Primaries.
Although Duodo The Blind Historian, as he is affectionately called asserts that Mr Kyerematen is likely to cross the first selection process, where five candidates will be selected, it will be impossible for him to win the Presidential primaries to become the party’s flagbearer.
He attributed this to what he describes as a political plunder Mr Kyerematen committed in 2008.
“Alan for instance can break the first five but to become a flagbearer will be very very difficult. It is the most difficult thing currently in the world. It will be more difficult for him to win than for someone to die and resurrect.
Asked by host Kofi Adoma Nwanwani why he says so, he explained that: “in April 2008, he [Alan] committed a political suicide and that political suicide will follow him.”
The case in reference occurred in April 2008 when Mr Kyerematen resigned from the party.
A Daily Guide report indicated that the then defeated New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has resigned from the party.
Mr Kyerematen, popularly called Alan Cash, was said to have submitted his resignation letter to the office of the National Chairman of NPP, Peter Mac Manu, who was then out of the country.
The former Minister was said to have stated in the letter that his supporters were being harassed since his defeat at the party’s Legon Congress, and therefore he was left with no option than to quit.
Alan however said he would rejoin the party at the appropriate time and later did so.
Duodu, who emphasised that forgiveness is rare in Ghanaian politics, said that party delegates might not forgive him for his decision to exit and rejoin the party.
Member of Alan Kyerematen’s campaign team, Collins Owusu Amankwaah, has emphasized that they will strongly oppose any efforts to manipulate the upcoming NPP presidential primaries.
Amankwaah has voiced worries about possible unfair tactics and attempts to rig the party’s primaries by certain factions.
During an interview with Oyerepa Radio on July 27, 2023, the ex-Member of Parliament for Manhyia North Constituency disclosed that his team is well-informed about current endeavors to manipulate delegates’ records, specifically in the Ashanti Region.
He stated that should any constituency be found attempting to remove names of delegates from the NPP album, Alan Kyerematen’s supporters will take action and not remain passive.
He declared, “We’ll not permit voting to take place in any constituency that’s planning to remove names of some delegates in the NPP album. We’ll never sit aloof and watch one person take the law into his hands to cheat us. It will never happen.”
He further assured that Alan’s camp is highly vigilant and fully prepared to confront any individuals involved in rigging attempts head-on.
He warned those considering altering the album to abandon such plans, as they would face severe consequences from the resolute camp of Alan Kyerematen.
The spokesperson for the Alan Kyerematen campaign team, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, has provided an explanation for the decision to put on hold the campaign trip of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant to the Ashanti Region.
According to Mr. Asamoa, the postponement was deemed necessary due to other essential government and parliamentary activities scheduled for that period.
Specifically, the decision was made to avoid interfering with public interest in the mid-year budget review, which is set to be delivered to Parliament on Monday, July 31.
He highlighted the significance of the budget review, as it is the first since Ghana entered the IMF program.
The review will assess whether the country is making progress, remaining static, or experiencing setbacks in its economic development.
“The Minister of Finance is slated to deliver the mid-year budget review to Parliament. That budget review, the first since we entered the IMF programme, will tell us whether we are making progress, we are static or we are retrogressing.
Given the importance of this event for the entire nation, the campaign team did not want their activities to compete for media attention during that week.
Mr. Asamoa stressed the significance of the budget review for Mr. Kyerematen’s campaign and his chances of winning the 2024 polls.
The team is conscious of the fact that the state of the nation’s economy will play a crucial role in the 2024 election’s outcome.
Therefore, they are keen on aligning their campaign with Mr. Kyerematen’s great transformational plan, which aims to build the economy following the IMF stabilisation period, focusing on a stable and sound macroeconomic environment.
The mid-year budget review is expected to prioritize policies aimed at securing economic stability and fostering growth.
It will also encompass several reforms, including the Post-CoVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG), which aims to improve institutions and controls in the country.
Other areas targeted for enhancements include expenditure commitment control and arrears clearance, debt management, governance, tax policy, tax administration, energy sector reforms, and cocoa sector reforms.
Former Member of Parliament (MP) for the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira Constituency, Catherine Ablema Afeku, has assured the constituents of her unrelenting support should she be elected as NPP parliamentary candidate for her constituency.
“If you support Presidential candidate A or B, it’s not part of the constituency election, so you can choose me as your parliamentary representative and vote for any Presidential aspirant you want. Don’t let anyone intimidate you into thinking otherwise,” she told the gathering.
She gave this assurance while encouraging the delegates to vote for their preferred candidate to lead the party in the 2024 elections, despite her extensive campaigning for the former Trade and Industry Minister across the nation.
“When you come to the constituency, does the president come here? When you’re sick, I’m the one in the constituency to take care of you and not the presidential aspirant or president. When I win, I will go to Parliament, and the President goes to Jubilee House,” Catherine Afeku stated.
A senior member of Alan’s Campaign Team and a parliamentary aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira constituency, Catherine Afeku, has encouraged delegates to exercise their right to vote ‘skirt and blouse’ in the upcoming NPP Presidential and Parliamentary primaries.
Speaking to party supporters after picking nomination forms, Madam Afeku urged the constituents to cast their ballots for her as their Member of Parliament (MP) while also endorsing any Presidential candidate of their choice vying for the NPP flagbearer position.
She highlighted the significance of local representation and emphasized that the role of an MP is paramount when it comes to addressing the day-to-day concerns of the constituency.
“When you come to the constituency, does the president come here? When you’re sick, I’m the one in the constituency to take care of you and not the presidential aspirant or president. When I win, I will go to Parliament, and the President goes to Jubilee House,” Catherine Afeku stated.
She passionately urged them to vote for her as the MP while exercising their discretion to support any Presidential aspirant they believed would best lead the party.
“If you support Presidential candidate A or B, it’s not part of the constituency election, so you can choose me as your parliamentary representative and vote for any Presidential aspirant you want. Don’t let anyone intimidate you into thinking otherwise,” she told the gathering.
Former Minister for Trade and Industries and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Alan Kyerematen, has promised to empower two local road contractors in every constituency if elected as the party’s flagbearer and subsequently president.
Speaking to the media, Alan Kyerematen stated that aims to prioritize local contractors over expatriates to boost the local economy and foster growth and development within each constituency.
He also committed to paying all constituency executives once assuming the role of party leader, urging delegates to choose a leader who resonates with the people they represent.
Kyerematen emphasized the importance of engaging floating voters in determining the party’s fortunes at the national level, asserting his capabilities to break the 8 in the 2024 general election.
A well-known National Democratic Congress (NDC) member named Felix Ofosu Kwakye has asserted that Alan Kyerematen, who wants to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has lost touch with the political realities.
He disclosed that, in terms of his campaign, the candidate running to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the impending 2024 elections is not making a sufficient contribution or performing to the necessary standards.
“It’s regrettable, but Bawumia is currently leading the contenders. Unfortunately, Alan Kyerematen seems to be lacking in significant influence. From my perspective, and with utmost respect for him, it appears that he may be out of touch with the present times. Perhaps his best opportunity was back in 2007, and he might have achieved better results if he had put in more effort then.
I don’t foresee Konadu Apraku and other candidates making a considerable impact. The most captivating candidate, in terms of rhetoric, is Kwabena Agyepong. However, it’s important to note that the average delegate isn’t receptive to internal criticism; their primary concern is the party’s external success. Hence, any actions that potentially arm the opposition could work against the candidate when the delegates ultimately decide.”
A hopeful candidate for the NPP flagbearer position, Alan Kyerematen, has highlighted the substantial political sacrifice he made by willingly withdrawing his candidacy in favor of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during the 2008 General Elections.
Alan Kyerematen contemplated on how his decision, driven by the utmost interest of the NPP and the nation, aimed to avoid a runoff election and foster unity within the party.
Speaking to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates in the Volta region, Mr. Kyerematen said;
“I made the greatest political sacrifice in the history of Ghana’s politics by stepping down for Nana Addo. It was in the supreme interest of the NPP and to foster unity,” Graphiconline.com quoted Kyerematen as having said.
He regarded his decision to withdraw from the 2007 Presidential Primaries as a remarkable display of sacrifice, putting the collective interests of the NPP ahead of personal ambition.
Drawing attention to the importance of a candidate’s choice and campaign style in the upcoming 2024 General Election, Kyerematen stressed that these factors would play crucial roles in determining the electoral outcome.
He emphasized the need for a candidate with credibility, someone who can garner trust and support from the electorate due to their strong appeal throughout the country.
“Credibility is a key factor that voters consider when making their decision at the polls. A candidate with a strong track record of integrity, competence, and commitment to the welfare of the people will have a higher chance of winning the support of the electorate,” Kyerematen expressed during his address.
Elaborating further, he added, “It is important for the candidate to articulate a clear vision for the country, addressing the key concerns and aspirations of the citizens. The campaign-style should be inclusive, engaging, and accessible, ensuring that the message reaches a wide range of people across different demographic groups.”
New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Alan Kyerematen has urged Volta region residents to unite behind him as the party’s flagbearer and presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.
He vows to continue the positive work of late President Jerry John Rawlings in the region.
Addressing delegates in Aflao, Ketu South, Dzodze, and Sogakope, Kyerematen, also known as Alan Cash, expresses his resemblance to Rawlings and appeals for the same love and support from Voltarians.
Despite the perception of the region as an NPP ‘no go area,’ Kyerematen believes the political landscape will change once he leads the party, relying on the people’s affection for him.
He urges delegates to vote for a tried and tested leader with national appeal, emphasizing the importance of defeating the NDC and “breaking the eight.” Kyerematen assures delegates of improved fortunes and proposes a monthly salary scheme for party executives.
Supporting him on the tour are John Peter Amewu, Minister for Railways and MP for Hohoe, Alhaji Boniface Abubakar, former Minister for Zongo Development, Mr. Yaw Boabeng Asamoah, and several NPP Regional executives.
A presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has generously donated 500 bags of cement to support the construction of a medical facility for the Anglican Diocese of Koforidua.
The church expressed gratitude for his selfless gesture, acknowledging it as a demonstration of his non-selfishness.
“We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your unselfish contribution to the construction of our Medical Facility in Koforidua. Your donation of 500 bags of cement is very important to us. It will help us to commence the construction of our medical facility.
“May this letter serve as a receipt of the 500 bags of cement you donated to us for which we are most grateful,” the letter said.
The letter, dated July 12, 2023, further stated that Alan Kyerematen, in addition to being a presidential candidate, is also a valued member of the Anglican Communion.
Former Minister of Trade and Industry and aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Alan Kyerematen, has stated that Ghana could have prevented its reliance on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by implementing his proposed ideas.
However, failure of the country to heed to his advise ended the country up at the Bretton Woods institution.
During his recent tour of Greater Accra delegates, Alan Kyerematen emphasised the potential of President’s Special Initiatives (PSI) introduced during the previous administration of John Agyekum Kuffour. He stated that if the nation had embraced this transformative concept, it could have significantly altered Ghana’s economic trajectory.
Reflecting on his contributions to the country, he expressed a sense of regret, stating, “The amount of work I have done for this country, sometimes I even feel ashamed talking about it.”
He emphasized his role in introducing the President’s Special Initiatives during President John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration and suggested that had Ghanaians embraced his ideas, the country would not have resorted to seeking assistance from the IMF, he is quoted to have said.
The strategic intent of the PSIs, according to the NPP government, was to move Ghana’s economy beyond HIPC status and reduce the country’s over-dependence on aid and donor support and a few commodity exports by finding new pillars of growth.
A total of 10 NPP presidential candidate aspirants had picked up nomination forms as of Thursday, June 1, 2023, and had paid a non-refundable nomination fee of GHC50,000.
The 10 include; Vice- President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, a former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a former Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Joe Ghartey, a businessman and energy expert Kwadwo Poku, a former Minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko, a former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai-Nimoh, a former Minister of State, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku and a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto.
In preparation for the eagerly awaited presidential flagbearership race, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has declared the initiation of the vetting procedure for its presidential aspirants. Commencing on Monday, July 3, and concluding on Wednesday, July 6, 2023, the party’s vetting process marks a crucial step in determining the candidates who will contend for the coveted position.
According to a statement issued by Evans Nimako, the Secretary to the National Presidential Vetting Committee, the first day of vetting, July 3, will see Alan John Kyerematen, former Minister for Trade and Industry, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Kwadwo Poku appearing before the committee.
On July 4, the committee is scheduled to vet three more candidates Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, former Energy Minister, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, a former NPP General Secretary, and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, will all face scrutiny regarding their presidential aspirations.
The remaining candidates will undergo the vetting process on July 5 and 6, as indicated in the statement. The NPP urges all presidential hopefuls to adhere to the schedule and actively participate in the vetting process, which is a crucial step in determining the party’s candidate for the upcoming general elections.
However, the total number of the aspirants will be trimmed down to five during the first round of the vetting process.
The vetting process serves as a platform for aspirants to present their visions, policies, and plans for the country’s development to the NPP’s National Presidential Vetting Committee.
A Presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Alan Kyerematen, plans to connect with Party delegates through a series of cluster meetings across the nation. This intensive campaign tour aims to gather widespread support for his bid for the presidency.
With the Party’s November 4, 2023 Presidential primaries approaching, the former Trade and Industry Minister, Mr. Alan Kyerematen, has set his sights on engaging each delegate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) individually. Through these interactions, he intends to provide comprehensive insights into his ambitious Great Transformational Plan (GTP).
A statement issued by Yaw Buaben Asamoa, Press Secretary to Alan Kyerematen, announcing the tour, said the ground-breaking cluster delegates meetings would see the presidential-hopeful engaging with over 200,000 NPP delegates.
The cluster constituency delegate meetings will serve as a platform for Mr. Alan Kyerematen to demonstrate his dedication to collaborative idea-sharing and working in unison with the people. These efforts are geared towards achieving victory in the upcoming November primaries and ultimately in the national elections of 2024.
“This innovation is expected to change the dynamics of Aspirant and Delegate interactions, giving diverse delegates from different constituencies a unique opportunity to meet, fraternize, and share experiences from differing perspectives,” the statement said.
Starting from the Greater Accra Region, the cluster engagements will kick off on Monday, 3rd July 2023, and subsequently expand to cover other regions in the country.
The cluster meetings with delegates is fashioned along constituencies with contiguous borders and common characteristics.
This strategic arrangement aims to maximize interaction and cooperation among party members.
They will help delegates and the presidential hopeful together, “devise winning strategies towards
the A4P goal of building a strong partnership for power between the NPP and the public,” the statement stated.
It added that “participation in the durbars is expected to lift the spirits of the delegates and the rank and file of the Party, renewing hope that ‘Together, We Will Win’ the 2024 General and Presidential Elections to transform the fortunes of Ghana.”
Alan Kyerematen’s profile as a former Trade and Industry Minister adds weight to his bid as a presidential candidate hopeful for the NPP, as majority of party members see him as the best candidate to the 2024 presidential elections.
A Presidential hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has emphasized the importance of Ghana having a leader who embodies the Christian faith in Ghana’s development.
According to Mr Kyerematen, popularly referred to as “Alan Cash”, it is not enough for a president to merely identify as a Christian in name.
Instead, he believes that the country needs a leader who will demonstrate the qualities and values exhibited by Jesus Christ, the Lord and Saviour of Christians.
During the ‘Mpaebo Kesie’ prayer session organized by the Parliament Chapel International (PCI) on June 28, 2023, Kyerematen expressed his belief that Ghana’s progress and development will be significantly enhanced with a leader who is guided by Christian principles.
“When I was starting (my presidential bid) I called all the church leaders for a breakfast meeting. After that, I also did a thanksgiving service.
“… I did this because I have come to realise that Ghana needs not just a Christian leader but a Christ-like leader. There is a difference between a Christian leader and a Christ-like leader,” he said.
He therefore entreated electorates to assign a Christ-like individual the role of governing the country in the 2024 general elections.
Six hopefuls seeking the presidential candidacy of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have successfully filed their nomination forms ahead of the impending primaries.
The nomination process, which commenced on Friday, May 26, 2023, saw a total of 11 candidates obtaining the necessary forms to participate in the primaries scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023.
Among the candidates who have filed their nomination forms are Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Alan Kyerematen (former Minister of Trade and Industry), Dr. Akoto Afriyie (former Minister for Food and Agriculture), Dr. Konadu Apraku (economist and former Minister for Regional Cooperation), Boakye Agyarko (former Minister for Energy) and Kennedy Agyapong.
It is anticipated that two additional aspirants, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong (former General Secretary of the NPP), and Mr. Kojo Poku (an energy expert), will submit their nomination forms by the end of tomorrow, June 21, 2023.
If more than five aspirants who have collected their forms proceed to file them by the closing date on Saturday, June 24, 2023, the NPP will convene a “Super Delegate Conference” on Saturday, August 26, 2023, as per the provisions in Article 12 (5) (b) of the NPP constitution.
This conference involves a Special Electoral College comprising the National Council, the National Executive Committee, the Regional Executive Committees, the National Council of Elders, Members of Parliament, representatives from special organs of the party, past National Officers, representatives from external branches, founding members, and card-bearing Ministers of the NPP while in government.
The NPP initiated the nominations process on Friday, May 26, 2023, which will conclude on Saturday, June 24, 2023. Aspirants who collected the forms are obliged to pay a non-refundable nomination fee of GH¢50,000.00.
The completed nomination documents must be filed by Saturday, June 24, 2023, accompanied by a filing fee of GH¢300,000.00.
As of today, Tuesday, June 21, 2023, six candidates, including Boakye Agyarko (former Minister for Energy), Francis Addai Nimoh (former Member of Parliament for Mampong Constituency), Kwabena Agyei Agyapong (former General Secretary of the NPP), Dr. Konadu Apraku (economist and former Minister for Regional Cooperation), Dr. Akoto Afriyie (former Minister for Food and Agriculture), Kennedy Agyapong (Member of Parliament for Assin Central constituency), have submitted their nomination forms to participate in the presidential primaries.
The remaining contenders who have also collected their forms are Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Mr. Kojo Poku (energy expert), Alan Kyerematen (former Minister of Trade and Industry), and Joe Ghartey (former Minister for Railways Development and Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan constituency in the Western Region).
My attention has been drawn to a WhatsApp message circulating under the headline above. I want to state unequivocally that I have made no such declaration for Mr. Alan Kyerematen in the upcoming presidential primaries.
As a matter of concern, this is the second time such malicious fabrication against my person. As a National Council member, I have been circumspect in my pronouncements about the contest ahead.
At the Conference of Presiding Members, I was in the company of the Hon. Joseph Osei Wusu and Ing. Dr. Nana Ato Arthur where there were no such conversations during and after the conference.
During my days as a DCE, I never worked directly with Mr. Alan Kyerematen because he was not the local government minister. He also had no hand in my appointment to that position.
I have all my life since 1992 been an Akufo-Addo loyalist and for which I can describe our relationship as that of a father and a son. In the 2016 Campaign, I was gracious to have served him as Head of Advance and subsequently in 2017 as Director-General of NADMO in his government. All appointments were done by him without the influence of anybody for which I am eternally grateful.
I would like to by this means send a word of caution to my detractors who believe in scoring political points with their propaganda for their parochial interest in the upcoming parliamentary primaries in the Ahafo Ano North Constituency and beyond.
I know His Excellency Dr. Bawumia personally and consider him a great friend and personality, I would not do anything to ruffle his quest to lead this great party, for It is possible.
Managing Director of State Transport Company (STC) has reacted to the famous slogan ‘Aduru Wo So’ meaning ‘it’s his turn’ in Twi adopted by flagbearer aspirant, Alan Kyerematen.
Nana Akomea said is it factually incorrect for the former Minister for Trade and Industry to use the phrase because the position is no one’s entitlement.
Rather, what he expected from supporters of the presidential hopeful is for them to focus on his competences and vision should he emerge flagbearer of NPP.
Mr Kyerematen’s campaign team is relying heavily on the ‘Aduru Wo So’ mantra to win the NPP presidential primary.
They argue that when he had the chance to win the internal elections, he stepped down for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, therefore, after his tenure in office, Alan should be the obvious choice.
Reacting to this on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Friday, Mr Akomea said claims by Alan’s campaign team are far away from facts.
He alleged that, in 2012 when Mr Kyerematen was asked to stepdown for then aspirant, Nana Akufo-Addo “he said delegates were going to vote for a President not a chief.”
This position taken by him [Alan], Mr Akomea said, now defeats the ‘Aduru Wo So’ mantra.
He added that if the Alan’s campaign team’s ‘Aduru Wo So’ argument is anything to do by, then the one entitled is Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku who has been contesting the flagbearership elections since 1998.
TheNew Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) flagbearer candidate, Alan Kyerematen has proposed the Great Transformational Plan (GTP) as a new path for accelerated growth that will position the nation and end the cycle of IMF bailouts.
Speaking in a presentation to key private sector players on June 13, Mr Kyerematen expressed the value of deliberate Government policy driving desired outcomes in the private sector. He said “Government has the power through policy to turn the economy around in the preferred direction”.
The GTP proposed by Mr Kyerematen aims to foster a more self-reliant and resilient economy, propelling Ghana from a state of stability and growth to one of transformation.
He stressed the need for a comprehensive plan to guide the nation beyond the transitional Post-COVID Economic Recovery Programme (P-CERP) currently underway with IMF support.
According to Kyerematen, the recent IMF bailout served as a lesson that Ghana’s economy remains fragile, vulnerable, and prone to external and domestic shocks. He attributed this vulnerability to the country’s heavy reliance on commodity exports with limited value addition. Additionally, he highlighted that the projected 5.1% GDP growth for the Ghanaian economy in 2023 hinges on anticipated increases in global commodity prices.
The success of the GTP, as outlined by Kyerematen, will rely on robust macroeconomic fundamentals. These include maintaining a stable currency, managing inflation rates, ensuring sustainable debt levels, optimizing revenue generation, exercising prudent expenditure control to achieve fiscal balance, fostering low competitive interest rates, and building strong external reserves supported by ample liquidity to fortify the financial sector.
Private sector captains who attend the business meeting with Alan Kyerematen include the respective Presidents of the Private Enterprise Federation, Nana Osei Bonsu, the Association of Ghana Industry (AGI),Dr. Ayim Darke, the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Clement Amoako, the Association of Small Scale Industries, Alhaji Mumin Saeed and the Vice President of GUTA, Mr. Clement Boateng. Ms. Nura Salifu, President of the Association of Garment and Apparel Manufacturers of Ghana and Mr. Jeff Oppong Preprah, the president of the Automobile Assemblies Association of Ghana.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has released an updated schedule of activities for its presidential and orphan constituency primaries in preparation for the 2024 general elections.
The primary process will conclude with the selection of five final aspirants who will participate in the party’s National Congress on Saturday, 4th November, 2023. In the event of a tie in the candidate election, a runoff will take place on Saturday, 11th November, 2023.
Currently, ten aspirants have obtained nomination forms to compete for the position of flagbearer.
As per the revised timelines outlined in a press release issued by the party on June 12th, several key steps will be followed. This includes the ballot position drawing on Monday, 24th July, 2023, the publication of the first Notice of Poll on Tuesday, 25th July, 2023, and, if necessary, a national congress by a special electoral college on Saturday, 26th August, 2023.
The revision of the primary timelines for both presidential and orphan constituency primaries was approved during an emergency Steering Committee (SC) meeting held on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023. The decision was made following the Electoral Commission’s press release and the party’s preparations for the Assin North by-election.
Ismail Yahuza, a former Northern Regional Coordinator of John Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten, a flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has switched his allegiance to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s camp.
Yahuza made his decision public through an official statement, stating that he sees Vice President Bawumia as the solution to the party’s goal of securing a third consecutive term in power, given his popularity among the masses.
He lauded the Vice President for being innovative and focused on making policies that enables Ghana to compete with other nations.
“But who is the best bet for NPP to break the 8? Without any equivocation, I believe Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is already in demand, and he is the answer for the NPP.
Dr. Bawumia embodies competence; he exudes an aura of distinct leadership expertise and peace. There is no argument against the fact that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been the only Vice President since the Fourth Republic who has shown demonstrable capability and agility in that position. With all due respect, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the most dynamic, collaborative, and engaged Vice President our country has ever seen, at least during the Fourth Republic. He revealed that it is wonderful that he uses innovative thinking and imaginative policy-making initiatives to provide Ghana a competitive edge within the comity of nations”. he said
Dr Bawumia is certain of becoming Ghana’s next president. He has already his nomination forms for the NPP presidential race.
Read his full statement below;
My mission here today and now as far as possible is to exercise my inalienable democratic right and freedom of belonging and choice, guaranteed by the constitution of our country (Ghana). This guarantees bolsters the enviable democratic credentials of the NPP as reflected in our motto; “Development in Freedom”. Also, Article 3 of our party’s constitution grants and places rights and duties on its members. Today, I choose to exercise my constitutional rights and discharge the duties conferred on me as a member of our great party. And I do this in the interest of our party and country as a whole.
So far as the political history and governance of this country is concerned, the NPP remains the single and most important political party promoting people-centered programs, and advancing holistic socio-economic just development through good governance, peace and security.
The trajectory and exigencies of the political and governance landscape is increasingly changing and demanding different breed of leaders of which the NPP cannot gloss over. Undoubtedly, these and many other dynamics must be the considerations that must guide the NPP as we prepare to elect our Presidential candidate for victory 2024. Undoubtedly, the 2024 Presidential elections will be fought fearlessly by the NPP and the other political parties, particularly the NDC. The NPP shall competitively win the elections based on the overwhelming development record, the quality, competence, moral and ethical credentials of our Presidential candidate.
But who is the best bet for NPP to break the 8?
Without any equivocation, I believe Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is already in demand, and he is the answer for the NPP.
Dr. Bawumia is an embodiment of competence; he exudes an aura of distinct leadership expertise and peace. There is no argument against the fact that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been the only Vice President since the Fourth Republic who has shown a demonstrable capability and agility in that position. With all due respect, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the most dynamic, collaborative, and engaged Vice President our country has ever seen, at least during the Fourth Republic. It is wonderful that he uses innovative thinking and imaginative policy-making initiatives to provide Ghana a competitive edge within the comity of nations. He is widely regarded with directing the government’s initiatives to digitally formalize and our economy on the path of rebound and advancement.
Since his emergence into the National Political stage, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has maintained his commitment to the cause by supporting the party and its flagbearer in all crucial situations. By choosing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as our running mate in four consecutive elections, the NPP has demonstrated its confidence in him for his commitment, loyalty, and value addition to the cause. It is certainly not a coincidence that he constantly enjoys the backing of the party and the President in the discharge of responsibilities.
Dr. Bawumia’s leadership is the type of leadership that recognizes respect for people irrespective of faith, creed or ethnicity in a manner that fosters national cohesion. Across shades of opinion, the Presidency of Dr. Bawumia will provide a perfect balance of representation, where for the first time a Muslim assumes the leadership of our country. If Bawumia is chosen as the NPP’s flagbearer, he has two major advantages: many Christians find him to be approachable despite the fact that he is a Muslim, and Muslims who previously supported the NDC will most likely flip to the NPP.
Having served as a running mate for the NPP on four separate occasions, having made a significant contribution to the victory of two of those general elections to become a Vice President for two terms, Dr Bawumia has garnered enough political experience. He has become a household name and the only political figure in demand, favoured across all political lines. In terms of marketability and popularity across the country, Dr. Bawumia has a tremendous and unequaled appeal and pedigree.
Dr. Bawumia is without a doubt the only suitable member of the elephant fraternity to lead the NPP in the 2024 general elections after playing a crucial role in the NPP’s electoral victories in 2016 and 2020 and swaying thousands of votes from NDC strongholds across the country and in the Northern Regions in particular. To lead the ruling NPP, Dr. Bawumia deserves a unanimous vote of confidence, if a popular acclamation.
We must strive to send an encouraging message to the majority of Ghanaians that ours is a party that accepts and provides opportunities for all – a party that ensures that regardless of one’s creed, ethnicity, or gender, it is still able to attain the party’s number one spot. I hereby declare my support for H. E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to lead the NPP in the 2024 presidential elections and call on the party to vote him in the upcoming presidential premaries as our presidential candidate.
Founding member of the New Patriotic Party Dr. Nyaho Nyaho Tamakloe, has pointed out the sheer lack good leadership traits in NPP’s aspiring flagbearer Alan Kyerematen.
Dr. Nyaho Nyaho Tamakloe known for not mincing with words said in an interview that, the mere fact that the former Trade and Industry Minister lacked the courage to resign from the Akufo-Addo government early enough makes him unworthy of the leading the Party.
He said, although he would have personally chosen Kyerematen as the flagbearer for the 2024 presidential election, his failure to leave the Akufo-Addo government due to impropriety disqualifies him as a viable option.
“I personally would have selected Alan Kyerematen, but listen to me carefully, Alan Kyerematen should have taken the necessary action earlier, which he didn’t do, and in my opinion, I have disqualified him,” Dr. Tamakloe explained.
He further elaborated, “Alan Kyerematen has been with the party for many years. They were the young people who followed us. He listened to advice and stepped down for Akufo-Addo. However, when he was a minister and there were numerous infractions occurring, he can’t convince me that he was unaware because he was a cabinet minister. Unless they all just sit down and listen to Akufo-Addo talk, Alan Kyerematen should have had the courage to say that this is wrong. If the government disagreed with him, he should have taken the initiative to resign. Therefore, I believe he lacks the culture of resignation, and it is this culture that can bring us a good leader.”
In January 2023, Alan Kyerematen announced his resignation from the Akufo-Addo-led government, stating that it was to pave the way for his campaign as a flagbearer hopeful for the NPP. Critics of the former minister, however, argue that he left for the wrong reasons and should have resigned earlier due to the government’s role in the country’s current economic challenges and various scandals during the administration.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has proclaimed his support for Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia’s presidential ambition, as well as emphasizing the importance of his expertise and vision for the digital era.
According to him, the rapid evolution of the world and the transformative power of technology calls for a leader who can harness the potential of the fourth industrial revolution and drive Ghana’s progress in the digital space.
He added that in an era marked by unprecedented advancements and breakthroughs, the world has witnessed remarkable shifts from the n period to the agricultural and industrial revolutions it is crucial to have a leader who comprehends the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead.
“For the sake of the future let’s support Dr Bawumia.
“The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace. We’ve come a long way from the Neolithic era to the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions. Now, we stand at the cusp of the 4th Industrial Revolution – the age of digitization. With technology changing the way we work and live, it’s more important than ever to have a leader who understands the potential of this new economic era.
“With his vision, we can build a nation that will be at the forefront of revolutionizing the digital space for the benefit of future generations,” he said in a Facebook post on May 10, 2023.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has declared his intention to contest for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential flagbearership bringing the official number of people who have declared their intentions to contest to nine.
They include the former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen; the former Minister of Food and Agric, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie; Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong; former MP for Essikado-Ketan, Joe Ghartey; and a former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai-Nimoh.
Former Mfantsiman West MP Stephen Asamoah Boateng has downplayed the impact of the religious argument against Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s chances of winning the 2024 election should he emerge as the flagbearer.
Ahead of the governing party’s presidential primaries, various arguments for and against the two main contenders, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and Alan Kyerematen have emerged.
In the case of Dr. Bawumia, while many have berated him for the ailing Ghanaian economy considering the significant role he played before and after the NPP came to power, there are concerns within the party and among some Ghanaians about his religious status and how that could affect his electability at the national polls.
Although Ghana is a secular state, the proponents of this argument believe that with 70 per cent of the population being Christian, a Muslim presidential candidate may find it extremely difficult to win a presidential election, although Islam is the second largest religion in Ghana.
Mr. Asamoah Boateng, who has emphatically stated his support for the candidature of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is convinced that the party can surmount this challenge should Dr. Bawumia emerge as the presidential candidate.
Speaking on Citi TV on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, he argued that once Ghanaians have lived together peacefully despite religious and tribal differences, that should not be an impediment to Dr. Bawumia once he has proven his ability to lead the country into prosperity.
“I am trying not to be the spokesperson for Dr. Bawumia. That’s an issue that I have heard, but I think that’s something we can explain and we can work it out. We have lived together peacefully, both Christians and Muslims, Buddhists, and even the traditionalists, and I haven’t heard any fight anywhere. So when people say he’s a Muslim, I ask and so? That’s his belief, I am a Christian and I like him. We are building a nation, and so we should rise above the tribal and religious arguments and see ourselves as one people, and focus on somebody who can lead us into the prosperity we’re looking for.”
On the matter of the ailing Ghanaian economy and how that could scuttle Dr. Bawumia’s chances, Mr. Asamoah Boateng said the economy was in good standing until the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.
“Before COVID hit us, our economic indicators were all high. It’s a known fact that the economy wasn’t as bad before COVID hit us. If you look at the trend, we are performing better than most countries now. When you go down into almost a recession, it will take a while to bounce back. It’s not the borrowing, it’s a question of things not working the way we wanted it” he argued.
Mr. Asamoah Boateng said Dr. Bawumia has proven to have the strength and character to lead the NPP and become the President after 2024.
“It’s Alan and Bawumia who are the leading contenders. Of course, there are others including my own brother Kennedy Agyapong. For me, I don’t belong to A or B, although I can tell you for a fact that I will prefer Bawumia’s side.
“I believe that he [Bawumia] has the character and the strength, and he’s learned on the job very quickly, and he also comes in as very humble and down to earth who embraces everybody. And in politics, that kind of trait is very key and people must be able to relate to you, so that’s what I think, but the delegates will decide. It is known in the party that I am on his [Bawumia’s] side” he noted.
The former Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) added that “Looking at what he’s done since he came into the limelight as a running mate and as a vice, he’s one of those people I have seen in politics who has matured very fast and quick and smart. And he’s got the strength and the character to withstand the pressures.”
“And I also remember that for 2016, winning was partly due to him [Bawumia]. I will give him a bigger chunk of it. He ran the campaign and he was on the attack. And when you’re in the political arena, you must have the stomach to be on the front foot and he’s on the front foot. The others I don’t want to comment on, because I am only talking about the one that I think should be given the nod to lead the party.”
Member of Parliament for the Yendi constituency, Umar Farouk Aliu Mahama, has said that majority of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament want Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to be the party’s next flagbearer.
Mr. Mahama said Dr. Bawumia stands tall among the persons that have so far put themselves up for the NPP’s flagbearership slot.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, the Chairman of Parliament’s Muslim Caucus said though the other aspirants are equally qualified, the Vice President is the right person to take the country to the promised land considering his time working with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“As for me and the majority of the Majority MPs, we are rooting for the Vice President, and it is a fact, and we are bold enough to say that we want Mahamudu Bawumia to take us to the promised land and also unite the party after the elections.
“Although we are yet to meet the other presidential hopefuls, it was clear during our meeting with the Vice President that everybody in the room wants Dr. Bawumia, and we are not saying that everyone wants him, but at least, over 100 MPs want him.”
Mr. Mahama further indicated that he is optimistic “that Bawumia will win [the presidential primaries] with over 80 percent of the votes.”
The Vice President in a meeting with members of the Majority Caucusin Parliament on Tuesday, May 2 disclosed his intention to contest the NPP Presidential Primaries on November 4, 2023.
He comes up against nine others including three-time runner Alan Kyerematen who resigned in January 2023 to focus on his Presidential ambition.
The campaign team for Alan Kyerematen who is contesting for the flagbearer slot of the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) has stated that the former trade minister’s goal is to give unemployed youth who benefited from Akufo-Addo’s free Senior High School Program jobs.
The ‘Alan for President 2024’ campaign team noted that former President John Agyekum Kufuor gave Ghanaians a free maternal health programme, President Nana Akufo-Addo continued the tradition with free senior high school and Mr Kyerematen would crown those policies with jobs.
Speaking at a health walk in Accra on Saturday, 29 April 2023, dubbed ‘Aduro Wo So’, to wit, ‘it’s your turn’ that was used to kick-start Mr Kyerematen’s campaign in the Greater Accra Region, spokesperson Buaben Asamoa, said the babies who were born as a result of former President Kufuor’s free maternity healthcare programme are the beneficiaries of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s free senior high school programme (Free SHS).
“The vast majority of the beneficiaries of theFree SHSwere babies born in 2007 to 2008,” he stressed.
‘’So, it’s the turn of Alan Kyetematen to create jobs with his Ghana Transformation Agenda (GTA),” he declared.
It is the expectation of Mr Asamoa that some one million jobs will be created pursuing through Mr Kyerematen’s GTA for the beneficiaries of the Free SHS.
He said the GTA is key for the development of Ghana’s economy.
Mr Kyerematen, addressing the crowd at Mantse Agbonaa, after walking through some principal streets in the commercial business district, said his quest to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is to create a financially sound political party, where party executives could be paid salaries at end of the month.
According to him, this is the only way to create a political party that is sound to sustain the country’s democracy.
He bemoaned the divisive tendencies in Ghana’s political terrain and pledged to offer a change
The Member of Parliament for the Subin constituency in the Ashanti region, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has alleged that President Akufo-Addo and NPP hopeful, Alan Kyerematen, engaged in vote buying during the 2007 NPP congress.
He revealed the breakdown of monies paid by top politicians of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during two consecutive congresses.
The MP specifically cited the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2007 presidential primaries held at the University of Ghana, Legon as well as the 2010 round-off primaries of the party.
According to him, most of the contestants tried to influence the election outcome by using money, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
The MP mentioned some of the key contenders in that election, including Alan Kyerematen, Hackman Owusu Agyeman, and Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, among others, alleging that all of them paid huge sums of money to try and sway the election in their favour, however, despite their financial clout, they all lost to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who emerged as the winner in all the two consecutive congresses.
Speaking in an interview with Hello FM on April 20, 2023, he disclosed that during the 2007 NPP congress, the then-flagbearer of the party, now the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, paid three hundred Ghana cedis, in comparison, five other candidates, including Alan Kyerematen, paid five hundred Ghana cedis each.
With respect to the 2010 congress, where Nana Addo went up against Alan Kyerematen, Eugene Boakye Antwi revealed that Nana Addo paid five Ghana cedis, while Alan Kyerematen paid four times that amount, twenty Ghana cedis.
“2007, among the seventeen people who stood for the election, I was Nana Addo Dankwa’s polling Agent at Legon, but about 5 people paid more than Nana Akufo-Addo, Nana Akufo-Addo paid GHS 300.00 and about five people paid five hundred but they didn’t vote for them.
“…let’s go back again, 2010 primaries, Nana Addo and Alan Kyerematen round two, Nana Addo paid GHS 5.00 and Alan Kyerematen paid GHS 20.00, he paid GHS 5.00 and Alan Kyerematen paid four times of it that is GHS 20.00 but the delegates voted for Nana Addo. So is not all about the money,” he said.
His revelations come at a time when there are growing concerns about the role of money in Ghanaian politics and allegations of vote-buying in the party’s upcoming primaries as some party stalwarts and flagbearer hopeful has hinted at displaying cash during the election.
Former Chairman of the Fomena Constituency for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Akwasi Nti, has revealed why he decided to no longer side with the Alan Kyerematen camp but switch to the Bawumia team.
According to Mr Akwasi Nti, he was abandoned by the former Trade Minister, Mr Kyerematen, during one of his difficult days in the NPP.
Mr Nti noted that on three separate occasions, he was suspended by the party over his support for Mr Alan Kyerematen, but not once did the presidential candidate hopeful ever reach out to him.
“Everybody knew I was a supporter of Alan but I have been suspended three times when I was following him and he never picked up a phone to ask me how I was doing during those difficulties. I have been suspended for three times and nobody called me on the phone from his camp even to find out how I was doing,” he said.
Mr. Akwasi Nti, a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) chairman of the Fomena Constituency
Mr Akwasi Nti says he is now a staunch supporter of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
“I am for Bawumia and I won’t hide it. I support Dr Bawumia 100% and I want him to succeed,” he said, adding that “I will work to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.”
Mr Akwasi Nti made the statements in an interview with Kumasi-based Angel Fm.
Vice President Dr Mahamadu Bawumia though has not publicly declared his intentions to contest the election, indication by some leadership in the party shows he is likely to contest with many tagging him as the presumptive flagbearer considering the massive support from the grassroots.
The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has set November 4, 2023, as the date for its presidential primaries to select a flagbearer for the general elections in 2024.
Very startling discoveries have been made about the 2007New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries held at the University of Ghana Legon by Eugene Boakye Antwi, the member of parliament representing the Subin seat in the Ashanti region.
He claimed that despite their best efforts, the majority of candidates failed to use money to sway the election’s results.
The MP mentioned some of the key contenders in that election, including aspiring Alan Kyerematen, Hackman Owusu Agyeman, and Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey among others, alleging that all of them paid huge sums of money to try and sway the election in their favour, however, despite their financial clout, they all lost to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who emerged as the winner.
“…Nana Akufo, I followed him in 2007, the day that we voted, I was his polling agent at Legon, Hon Alan Kyerematen paid more than him, he paid five hundred, and Hon Hackman Owusu Agyeman paid more than him.
“…I have given you an example, I said December 22, 2007, at Legon, Hon Hackman Owusu Agyeman paid money more than Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Hon Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey also paid more money than Nana Addo, Hon Alan Kyerematen also paid more money than Nana Addo, all of them paid more money than Nana Addo but most of the voters realized that Nana Addo deserved it so all of them voted for him,” he said.
Speaking in an interview with Okay FM on April 19, 2023, he explained that the NPP’s tradition of selecting its flagbearer is based on merit, message, long service, and loyalty, and not on financial considerations.
He further expressed his belief that the upcoming election is not about money, but about the candidate’s message and their track record of service and loyalty to the party.
“…the kind of tradition that we live with, is not about money that determines who becomes a flagbearer or an MP but is about the message. From President Kufour up till now, all the delegates voted based on the message, long service, and loyalty …those are their criteria.
“So, I don’t see any changes now, because the party that I know, they don’t change easily. So, when it is time, everyone needs to go and sell his or her message…So if someone says, I have given TNT, money and all that, those things don’t count during the voting process, what counts is one’s message to the delegates or the voters…because a similar thing happened just in 2007 and it is not that far,” he added.
His revelations come at a time when there are growing concerns about the role of money in Ghanaian politics and allegations of vote-buying in the party’s upcoming primaries as some party stalwarts and flagbearer hopeful has hinted of displaying cash during the election.
Renowned pollster Ben Ephson has dismissed claims bribery allegations peddled by the Ashanti Regional campaign manager for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Alan Kyerematen.
In an interview on Akoma TV on April 13, Collins Owusu Amankwah, who is the Ashanti Regional campaign manager for Alan and a former Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, claimed that Ben Ephson’s polls are not credible and alleged that the pollster makes favourable predictions for politicians who pay him.
However, in response to these allegations, Ben Ephson stated that he is measured in what he says now, adding that “When you are bathing and a man comes for your cloth, you don’t run naked after the person.”
Ben Epson highlighted that over his 22 years of research, he has achieved 83% accuracy, he also noted that in 2019, he was part of a team of University of Ghana lecturers who conducted research on the list of MPs who were likely to lose their seats.
“So, I have seen what Alan’s Ashanti Regional campaign manager has said, so let me take my time and say this, there is this saying that goes like ‘When you are bathing and a man person comes for your cloth, you don’t run naked after the person, so I have been very measured in what I say.
“In 2019, the University of Ghana lecturers that did research about the list of MPs who will lose their seat, I was part of them …he doesn’t believe in research, and he also said I take money and conduct polls…in twenty-two years (22) I have gotten 83% accuracy.
“I have done 7 polls, national polls…if he wants to help his candidate, Alan, there are people at Alan’s camp who come to me and ask why I said he will be third and I have explained to them,” he added.
