Former Minister of Trade and Industry, John Alan Kyerematen, has lauded ex-president, John Agyekum Kufuor as the most accomplished leader within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), recognizing his outstanding achievements and contributions to both the party and the country.
Speaking to the media, Mr Kyerematen expressed surprise at the negative and critical perceptions some individuals hold about the former president.
“Why do you hate president Kufuor? He is the most successful leader of the NPP in history, there has been no doubts about that. So why are people having that sentiment against him,” he stated.
Furthermore, Mr Kyerematen denied claims that former President John Kufuor influenced his candidacy during the NPP’s 2007 presidential primaries.
He clarified that during the 2007 campaign, he received equitable treatment, just like other aspirants, from President Kufuor.
“It is unfair to President Kufour for people to create the impression that because I was his favourite, he did all in his power to install me as his heir apparent and the reason I am saying that is that in 2005, all the people who eventually contested [the 2007 presidential primaries] had started doing underground moves and operations and I had made up my mind at that time that I would contest,” he explained.
He also emphasized that it’s inaccurate to suggest that he was President Kufuor’s preferred candidate solely because of their amicable relationship.
“When I went to inform him [President Kufour] that I had an interest and that my other colleagues had started moves undercover and that if he sees me also operating he should not be surprised, he told me to wait and do my work and that if people felt that I was the right person, they themselves would promote me.
“I went back three months after to tell him that people are campaigning openly and so I want to serve you notice that I will be going and he said, I cannot stop you but I want to tell you that, I will not support you and if there are people that I will support, it will be Nana Akufo-Addo, Aliu Mahama, Papa Owusu Ankomah, and then yourself and if any of you wins, I will be happy.”
Former prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, issued a stern warning to the party’s leadership, vowing to confront them if they attempt to undermine his contributions to the party after his resignation.
Kyerematen reaffirmed his deep-rooted commitment to the party’s traditions and values, emphasizing that he would not passively tolerate any wrongdoing within the party.
He stressed his distinguished professional track record both locally and internationally, making it clear that he does not engage in frivolous matters.
In an interview with the media, Mr Kyerematen stated that,“I was part of the founding members of the party. I have paid my dues to the party, and I believe in the traditions and values of the party. But if things are going wrong, I can only commit to remaining calm for a certain time. But when it is going to jeopardise the very existence of our party, which is where we have got to now, I will not stay and countenance that.”
He went on to say, “I am not a young man; I can make my own decisions, and I have a highly distinguished record in my profession, both locally and internationally. Therefore, I am cautioning the party leadership that if they choose to play a game discrediting me for what has transpired, it will not be a pleasant endeavor.”
Kyerematen vowed to challenge the party in the 2024 elections, emphasizing the importance of individuals being elected based on their own merits rather than relying on a political party.
“As an independent candidate, whether the party likes it or not, let the occasion arise, and they will see how much of that base I will harvest votes. Because we are not talking about delegates now, we are talking about the 6.5 million people who are not delegates. And who are looking for people who represent the true ideals of their tradition.”
“The political ecosystem, philosophy and foundation, that we have now, drives us more towards an executive-presidential system. People say it’s a hybrid, but the truth of the matter is that power is vested in one person, the president. If that is the case, then does it not make sense that people who are selected and elected as president must be elected on their own merits and not on the back of a political party,” he stated.
He also discussed the prevailing political landscape, noting the shift towards an executive-presidential system where power is primarily vested in the president.
In this context, he argued that presidential candidates should be elected based on their individual qualifications rather than simply being associated with a political party.
Alan Kyerematen resigned from the party on September 25, citing intimidation of his supporters and allegations of nepotism within the party. He announced his intention to run as an independent candidate, a decision that has surprised many in the country.
Former presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has issued a stern warning to the party’s leadership over attempts to undermine his significant contributions, following his resignation.
Mr. Kyerematen affirmed his strong belief in the party’s traditions and values, making it clear that he would not passively tolerate any misconduct within the party.
He highlighted his distinguished professional track record, both locally and internationally, emphasizing that he does not engage in trivial matters.
In an interview with Bernard Avle on the Point of View on Citi TV, Alan said, “I was part of the founding members of the party. I have paid my dues to the party, and I believe in the traditions and values of the party. But if things are going wrong, I can only commit to remaining calm for a certain time. But when it is going to jeopardise the very existence of our party, which is where we have got to now, I will not stay and countenance that.”
“After all, I’m not a young man, I can make my own decisions, and I have a very distinguished record in my profession, locally and externally. So I don’t waste my time on matters like this. And that is why I’m giving a caution to the party leadership, that if they want to play that kind of game by trying to discredit me about what has gone on, it will not be an interesting exercise,” Mr. Kyerematen warned.
He pledged to challenge the party vigorously in the 2024 elections, emphasizing the significance of individuals being elected based on their own merits rather than relying solely on the support of a political party.
“As an independent candidate, whether the party likes it or not, let the occasion arise, and they will see how much of that base I will harvest votes. Because we are not talking about delegates now, we are talking about the 6.5 million people who are not delegates. And who are looking for people who represent the true ideals of their tradition.”
“The political ecosystem, philosophy and foundation, that we have now, drives us more towards an executive-presidential system. People say it’s a hybrid, but the truth of the matter is that power is vested in one person, the president. If that is the case, then does it not make sense that people who are selected and elected as president must be elected on their own merits and not on the back of a political party,” he stated.
Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation from the party occurred on Monday, September 25. He cited reasons such as the intimidation of his supporters and allegations of nepotism within the party.
In a surprising turn of events, he subsequently announced his intention to run as an independent candidate, a decision that has left many in the country astonished.
In the span of just three days, the leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, embarked on a series of media engagements.
These events followed his departure from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and his decision to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections.
During these interviews, he staunchly defended his dual choices and addressed several of the underlying issues that prompted his resignation from the NPP. Alan also delved into his extensive 30-year history with the NPP, highlighting his notable achievements, particularly during his tenure as the Minister of Trade in the current government led by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Regarding internal party affairs, Alan felt compelled to mention and directly respond to four national officers. He singled them out due to comments they were alleged to have made either in favor of or against his resignation.
Stephen Ntim, National Chairman
Alan, who resigned from the NPP on September 25, 2023, revealed in an interview with Joy News (September 27) that a meeting did take place between himself and Ntim, but that the chairman’s purported findings were false.
“I don’t like what the National Chairman put out, it is disingenuous, it is very unfortunate. You are chairman of a party, you come to ask about any challenges with what is going on and I told you all the things that have been going on.
“I have had personal conversations with him before and he is aware of that…so I am reinforcing those concerns for your consideration… So, for you now to turn round and come and give a public statement that ‘you came, everything was okay, I find that to be very unfortunate’,” Alan submitted.
Alan goes after Nana B
Alan questioned the gravitas that National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, had in announcing his retirement from the party and associated concerns in an appearance on UTV on September 26, 2023.
According to Kyerematen, Nana B lacks the seniority and experience to discuss sensitive subjects such as his resignation from the party and the statements he made in connection with it.
“For him, Nana B, when did he join the party? When did Nana B join the party for him to be talking about big issues like this?” he asked.
Alan questions Juston Kodua
In a press conference on September 26, 2023, the General Secretary of the NPP revealed that Alan Kyerematen had not informed the party leadership of his desire to depart the NPP.
Alan Kyerematen, in an interview with TV3, disputed the claims, claiming that it was not his obligation to do so.
“Let us use our executive time to discuss things that will move this country forward. If the general secretary is lamenting over whether I informed him or not, was there a responsibility or requirement on my part to inform them?”
Kyerematen maintained that he had, in various ways, communicated his decision to the party.
“I have written to them that I am exiting from the process to elect our presidential candidate. I wrote to them, and I also gave an indication that at a later point in time, I would inform the public about the role o want to play in politics in Ghana and I have done so.
“I am not sure what the problem is with the general secretary” he stated.
To him, he has a commitment to serving the people of Ghana through politics and he remains resolute in that commitment.
“I am a politician, and I am in politics to serve the people of Ghana. I have done that over the years through the NPP. I have given an indication that for a number of reasons, I am exiting from the party, and I want to appeal directly to the people of Ghana. So, why are we getting into a debate about whether I informed the party? What does that mean to inform the party” he asked.
Alan warns ‘small boy Wontumi’
Alan’s first public spate after his resignation announcement was with Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, who is also known as Chairman Wontumi.
“Who brought Wontumi to the party? Today, Wontumi is going round making all kinds of noise. If he has someone to thank, it should be Alan Kyerematen. I’m the one who held his hands to the party. Who is Wontumi?
“There are some things we should not be saying but we have been quiet for too long. I brought Wontumi to the NPP and I brought him to the party for a good reason. He was a small-time businessman. Today, when we are talking about party issues, Wontumi is the one dictating,” he said in Twi.
The presidential hopeful said that he helped make Wontumi, the NPP constituency Chairman for Bosumtwi after he (Wontumi) asked for his help and pledged to support his presidential ambition.
“I held his hand and made him a chairman… After he became chairman, he was always following me, he was more than a chief campaigner… I am saying this to praise because he was smart enough to see that Alan was the one who could guide him into politics.
“But he has to be careful with the things he has been doing for the sake of the future. If someone helps you become somebody don’t take the person for granted,” he added.
Wontumi has hit back at Alan, stating that the former trade minister did not bring him into the NPP.
An aspiring independent presidential candidate, has expressed his belief that as a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), it is not appropriate to publicly criticize the ruling government, especially given the current economic challenges.
He emphasized that, as a senior member of the party, openly condemning the government when he is aware of the issues won’t effectively address the problems.
Mr. Kyerematen pointed out that while others may hold a different viewpoint, he thinks that it’s not the right approach for a founding member of the party to openly criticize the government, particularly when he is aware of the challenges and the internal workings.
“If I’m part of a group at the very senior level, I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to come out and criticize the government when I’m aware of the challenges and whatever was going on.
“As a senior member of the party, the last thing I’ll do is to claim that I have no knowledge of whatever was going on.
“Is that what you expect a founding member of the party to do, that if there are challenges within the party, I come out openly to speak about it, for whose benefit?” he quizzed.
Mr. Kyerematen emphasized the importance of timing in addressing issues, suggesting that it’s better to find an appropriate time to discuss problems rather than impulsively condemning the government at any given opportunity.
He also noted that, during his time as a Cabinet Minister and a member of the Economic Management Team, he refrained from speaking on certain pressing issues due to the oath of secrecy that cabinet members sign.
“I think that there’s time for everything. When you want to speak about an issue, you find the appropriate time to speak about it especially when you aware of the circumstances that have given rise to the situation that you find yourself in,” he stated.
The former Trade Minister, announced his resignation from the NPP on September 25, 2023, and his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 general elections.
“What I’m saying is that, we have an oath of secrecy that we sign on to as cabinet minsters and I don’t think that this is the right forum for us to talk about who said what and our different views on programmes.
He introduced his new movement called the “Movement for Change” and unveiled its symbol, the Monarch Butterfly, which symbolizes change, transformation, hope, and positivity in the political context.
Visually impaired historian, Bulgaria, has joined the chorus of criticism aimed at former trade minister, John Alan Kyeremanten for breaking away from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in order to establish his own political party.
During an interaction with the media, Bulgaria expressed the opinion that Alan lacks the essential qualities needed to thrive as an independent candidate, labeling him as a “pampered baby in pampers.”
In Bulgaria’s view, Alan’s departure from the NPP will adversely affect him, as opting for an independent path may not lead to a successful political journey.
“I perceive Alan as an individual who hasn’t learned the intricacies of politics from anyone. He strikes me as a child who possesses a ball, and when he doesn’t get to play with it on his terms, he gets upset and takes his ball home. That’s the impression I get from Alan; he behaves somewhat like a pampered baby in pampers.
“In my view, Alan’s recent decision demonstrates a certain immaturity. I doubt this choice will lead him anywhere favorable. If he believes he’s undermining the NPP, he might find himself in a precarious political position. What will become of his political future? He risks becoming a political relic,” he added.
He emphasized that Alan’s recent decision showcases a certain level of immaturity, according to him although Alan may believe he is undermining the NPP, he contended that he is, in fact, putting his own political future at risk.
Bulgaria argued that engaging in politics necessitates maturity, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate through internal party differences.
The former presidential aspirant for the NPP , announced his resignation from the ruling party on Monday, September 25, 2023.
Mr Kyerematen announced his decision when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
He noted that he no longer recognises the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
Mr Kyerematen first resigned from the party in 2008 following attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries.
Mr Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP following its establishment in 1992.
Aspiring independent presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen, has responded to claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Koduah, regarding his resignation from the party.
Mr Kyerematen questioned the necessity of formally informing the NPP about his departure and independent candidacy, countering Mr Koduah’s statement that he had not notified the party in advance.
During a press conference on September 26, 2023, Koduah had mentioned that Kyerematen did not inform the party’s leadership about his intentions to leave the NPP.
Speaking to the Mr Kyerematen, argued that it wasn’t his responsibility to do so.
“Let us use our executive time to discuss things that will move this country forward. If the general secretary is lamenting over whether I informed him or not, was there a responsibility or requirement on my part to inform them?”
He emphasized the need to prioritize discussions that would propel the nation forward, suggesting that dwelling on whether he formally informed the party or not was not productive.
“I have written to them that I am exiting from the process to elect our presidential candidate. I wrote to them, and I also gave an indication that at a later point in time, I would inform the public about the role o want to play in politics in Ghana and I have done so.
“I am not sure what the problem is with the general secretary.
“I am a politician, and I am in politics to serve the people of Ghana. I have done that over the years through the NPP. I have given an indication that for a number of reasons, I am exiting from the party, and I want to appeal directly to the people of Ghana. So, why are we getting into a debate about whether I informed the party? What does that mean to inform the party” he asked.
The Chairman of the Council of Elders within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, the party will eagerly receive John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen should he rescind his decision of running as an independent candidate
Mr Owusu-Agyeman clarified that while it is now too late for Kyerematen to reverse his independent candidacy, should he wish to rejoin the party, he would need to go through the formal membership application process.
Mr Kyerematen officially resigned from the NPP on Monday, citing unfair treatment by party leadership and the influence of a select few within the party.
He also announced his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential elections, with a focus on leading a youth-centered campaign.
Some political analysts have suggested that Kyerematen’s departure from the party and decision to run independently in the 2024 elections could have a negative impact on the NPP’s electoral prospects.
Speaking on JoyFM’s Top Story, Hackman Owusu-Agyeman remarked, “I think it’s too late. Whatever damage he intended to cause, he has already caused. We will live with it and overcome it. It’s not a difficulty at all.”
Regarding the possibility of Kyerematen’s return to the NPP, Owusu-Agyeman likened him to a prodigal son, stating, “If he wants to come back, the rules are very clear. He openly announced his resignation, so if he wants to return, he must reapply. The rules are outlined in Article 3. He’s welcome to come back; we need the numbers. A party is comprised of its members, and we are not turning anyone away. Everyone is welcome, just as the prodigal son is welcomed when he returns.”
Owusu-Agyeman went on to express skepticism about Kyerematen’s ability to revolutionize political thinking and activities in the country as an independent candidate, suggesting that he should consider rejoining the party if he has made mistakes.
This is not the first time Kyerematen has left the NPP. Following the 2007 presidential primaries, in which he contested against Akufo-Addo and raised concerns about the process, he initially resigned from the party. However, he later returned to the NPP after the party promised to address his concerns. Subsequently, he resigned again and decided to run as an independent candidate in the national election.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has taken a jab at 2024 presidential hopeful, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen likening him to a butterfly.
Wontumi pointed out that Alan, in the past, had campaigned against Akufo-Addo on account of age-related concerns, but now finds himself in the same age bracket and vying for the same position he previously criticized.
“Fortunately, or unfortunately, now he is also grown, because at that time, Akufo-Addo was 70 years old, and now he is also 70 years old. Now, you are grown, Alan. You are 70. He has grown and turned into a butterfly,” Wontumi stressed.
Alan Kyerematen was again chastised by Wontumi for his apparent lack of support for the NPP during the opposition’s leadership.
“For you, Alan, we have never seen you criticizing the NDC before. You have never criticized the NDC before, despite all the dumsor (power outages) that we experienced and Mahama’s issues.”
He added “But the party gave you a position for you to be able to take care of your wife and children. Now, all of you understand English even better than me. Your wife speaks better English than me now; she speaks it more fluently than Wontumi. Now, NDC members are speaking for you.”
In addition to Chairman Wontumi’s reaction towards the resignation of Alan Kyeremateng, issued a Memo for the removal of all of Alan’s NPP photos and billboards from their part party office and other affiliated areas.
Wontumi is leading the attacks on Alan Kyerematen. He says Alan is not an Asante. It's very interesting here. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/Yo2ACoo3lt
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called upon all ministers and government officials to emulate the example of former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, by highlighting the accomplishments in their respective sectors.
General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong issued this directive on Tuesday, September 26, as the party officially responded to Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation.
“On assumption of office of the NPP in 2017, under the leadership of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, I was appointed as Minister for Trade and Industry in the first term of the NPP administration, and was retained in the same position by the President in his second term,” he told a group of supporters at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
“During the past six years, I led the introduction and implementation of some of the most innovative and successful programmes of the NPP, including the establishment of the One District One Factory (1D1F) initiative, the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) with the Headquarters of the Secretariat in Ghana, the development of new strategic anchor industries including the Automobile Assembly and Component Manufacturing, the establishment of Business Resource Centres and Technology Solution Centers all over the country, to provide comprehensive business development solutions to MSMEs, the introduction of the new Integrated Customs Management System (UNIPASS) which has significantly enhanced mobilization of government revenue, the establishment of Industrial Parks including the flagship Greater Kumasi Industrial City and Special Economic Zone, the development of a National Export Strategy with a target of achieving export revenue of $25 Billion by 2030, and last but not the least, the introduction of Business Regulatory Reforms and a Public Private Dialogue mechanism, to facilitate Government’s interaction with the private sector.
“In spite of the limited budget put at my disposal during my tenure as cabinet minister, I was able to deliver significant achievements for the government and my country,” he pointed out.
Mr. Kyerematen, while announcing his decision on Monday, September 25, cited significant achievements during his nearly seven years of service in President Akufo-Addo’s government.
During his tenure, he spearheaded several innovative and successful initiatives, including the One District One Factory (1D1F) program, the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat in Ghana, and the development of strategic anchor industries such as the Automobile Assembly and Component Manufacturing sector.
He also played a key role in the creation of Business Resource Centres and Technology Solution Centres across the country and the implementation of the Integrated Customs Management System (UNIPASS).
In response to Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation, General Secretary Kodua Frimpong urged all sector ministers and government appointees to promote their remarkable achievements, just as Alan Kyerematen had done.
“The party further urges all sector ministers and other government appointees to start propagating the unprecedented achievement in their sectors just like Alan Kyerematen has done.”
Regarding Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation, Mr. Kodua Frimpong addressed some of the claims and emphasized the party’s dedication to retaining power to achieve the “breaking the 8” objective.
The campaign team members of Alan Kyerematen in the Northern Region have shifted their allegiance to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in anticipation of the New Patriotic Party’s National Delegates Conference scheduled for November.
This development comes on the heels of Alan Kyerematen’s resignation from the NPP, which he announced during a press conference on Monday.
During a subsequent press conference held in Tamale on Tuesday, Chabite Moses Moye, an administrator from Alan’s campaign team in the region, expressed their surprise and disappointment at Kyerematen’s decision to leave the New Patriotic Party.
He stressed that their support for Alan Kyerematen had been closely tied to his affiliation with the NPP, and with his departure from the party, he had also severed ties with his support base in the region.
The group now firmly believes that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the best candidate to lead the NPP into the 2024 election, following Kyerematen’s resignation. Therefore, they have resolved to back Bawumia’s candidacy.
“All signs show that the vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia who is also contesting will win. We have to work for the party. We will surely work with him and make sure that he gets the nod and continue to work for NPP to win power in 2024,” he stated.
He emphasized the team’s unwavering support for the NPP and their commitment to not betray the party for Alan’s personal agenda. He criticized Alan for not competing in the party’s contest, accusing him of betraying his loyal supporters.
“We are concerned, former supporters of Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s presidential candidacy of NPP are here today to express our profound disappointment with Mr Kyerematen. We as individuals have steadfastly believed in Alan within our party. We have diligently supported his campaign and believe in his potential to lead NPP.
However, Alan chose to withdraw from the race without prior notice, citing isolated incidents of violence after our special delegates’ conference. This decision has caused us unnecessary hardship because we firmly believed that the grassroots firmly supported him. We were shocked and dismayed when he withdrew from the November presidential election. We can only describe this action as cowardly and a betrayal of his loyal supporters. Today, we prioritize the party; our support for him was based on the NPP and not an individual. We were taken aback by his resignation from the NPP, and some of us were disappointed. We will remain loyal to our party, the NPP.”
The NPP, during a subsequent press conference, accepted Mr. Kyerematen’s decision.
Former presidential candidate aspirant of the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, launched a verbal attack on certain elders and leaders within the party, accusing them of effectively taking control of the party when he announced his resignation last Monday.
According to him, the party has been seized by a specific group of party leaders and elders, government appointees, covert power influencers, and some unscrupulous party members.
The former Trade and Industry Minister made these allegations as he announced his immediate resignation from the ruling party during a press conference held on Monday, September 25, 2023, in Accra.
Mr. Kyerematen underscored his role as a Founding Member of the New Patriotic Party, having joined the party at its inception. He expressed his initial belief in the party’s fundamental principles and the enduring customs of its predecessors, which were rooted in principles of fairness, equity, probity, accountability, and transparency.
“I have devoted the best part of my professional career to serving the party, and I still believe in the vision of the founding fathers of the party” he stressed.
However, he stated that the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the party that he joined in 1992 and helped to nurture.
“It was my fervent wish to use the vehicle of the party to bring my God given talents, experience, and knowledge acquired both locally and internationally over a period of 46 years, to serve our dear nation, Ghana at the highest level of executive authority” a disgruntled Alan Kyerematen bemoaned.
He conveyed that his services and contributions to the party have not been duly acknowledged, and he believes that his continued presence in the party would only exacerbate existing tensions and divisions. He emphasized that the current situation mirrors the circumstances that prompted his earlier decision to resign from the party in 2008.
The former State Minister took this opportunity to declare his intention to run as an Independent Presidential candidate in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Alan Kyerematen also unveiled the creation of a new movement in Ghana called the “Movement For Change,” which he personally intends to lead into the elections next year.
He explained that the movement’s logo is the Monarch Butterfly, which holds political symbolism representing change, transformation, hope, and positivity. He emphasized that it also conveys important qualities such as strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, all of which he values as a Political Leader. In the Akan language, it is known as Afrafranto. The movement’s motto is “Ghana Will Rise Again,” symbolizing hope for Ghana’s future.
Furthermore, Alan Kyerematen highlighted that this new movement will be driven and energized by the youth of Ghana. Among the over 17 million registered voters in the 2020 general election, the youth aged 18-35 constituted over 9.4 million voters, representing 55% of the total voters.
He stressed that the youth are undeniably the future of the country, yet they are also the most vulnerable segment of society.
Former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, has stated that decisions regarding Ghana’s economy were primarily made by the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta during his tenure in the government and Cabinet.
He explained that while Cabinet members could offer suggestions, the ultimate responsibility for managing the economy rested with the Finance Minister.
In an interview with the media Mr Kyerematen stated, “What I am saying is that the Minister of Finance is in charge of the economy. I can only make a contribution. The final decision depends on him. I cannot take responsibility for decisions made by the Finance Minister. So if you say I was in government and things went south, I cannot answer for that.”
Alan Kyerematen officially resigned from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on September 25, 2023.
He cited his belief that the party no longer required his services as the reason for his departure.
In his resignation speech, he announced his intention to contest the presidential election in the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate.
“Under the circumstances and given the context provided, I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning with immediate effect from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 General Elections, as an independent presidential candidate,” he stated.
Upon initial observation, Alan Kyerematen’s new political party logo closely resembles a real-life monarch butterfly, offering a nearly lifelike representation.
While it may appear that minimal effort was made to tailor the Nymphalid butterfly to align with the conventions of a typical Ghanaian political party logo, closer scrutiny reveals that the Movement for Change emblem has, in fact, been adjusted to accurately portray the likeness of a genuine monarch butterfly, possibly through alterations inspired by images found on Google.
Alan Kyerematen decided on the monarch butterfly as his political symbol after exiting the New Patriotic Party on September 25, 2023. For him, the monarch butterfly carries deep symbolism, representing transformation and change in the realm of Ghanaian politics.
Monarch butterfly with its wings spread to show vein patterns. Image courtesy of John Jackman.Alan’s logo
The monarch butterfly is known for its striking black and orange colors and is associated with transformation, rebirth, and renewal.
Mr Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent candidate marks a significant departure from his longstanding association with the NPP, and the monarch butterfly, he says symbolizes his quest for political change and growth.
Google ‘exposes’ Alan’s 'plagiarised' logo#INDNews Cecilia Dapaah | Mr Ibu | NPP MPs | Berla Mundi | Alan Kyerematen | Ashaiman | Steve Hanke | Kuffour pic.twitter.com/R7tTiWyR5X
He notes that the monarch butterfly’s strength and endurance are parallel to his determination to uphold his convictions and principles.
The choice of black and orange in the symbol carries significance for the former Trade Minister. Black represents mystery and power, which Mr Kyerematen says emphasizes the enigmatic nature of his departure from the NPP.
However, it also hints at the mixed emotions and potential conflicts surrounding his decision. On the other hand, the vibrant orange symbolizes Kyerematen’s passion for change, creative approach to politics, and his goal to uplift the spirits of the Ghanaian people.
Co-convener of Democracy Hub, Felicity Nelson, has expressed criticism regarding Alan Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections under the banner of the Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen, a former Trade and Industry Minister, resigned from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on September 25, citing an unfair playing field in the party’s flagbearer race.
He has since announced his intention to contest the 2024 elections as an independent candidate, with a commitment to establish a non-partisan governance structure for national development.
However, Felicity Nelson has raised doubts about Kyerematen’s ability to accomplish his objectives, particularly due to his involvement in the current government and what she perceives as a lackluster performance during his tenure as Trade and Industry Minister.
“I don’t know what Alan stands for, I don’t know what he represents, I think he failed to make a mark as a minister because he was part of this government that we are complaining against and he never took a stand and spoke against the government. So I am sorry if I am struggling to see what it is he is going to provide that is different.”
“Just because you are saying you don’t belong to either NPP or NDC does not necessarily make you an angel,” she said. “That does not mean anything to me. I am asking what Alan’s track record was as a Trade Minister, and what he did to fix our balance of trade deficit. I have been struggling to see what his message was even when he was campaigning to lead the NPP,” she added.
Following Alan Kyerematen’s resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on September 25, 2023, the leadership of the NPP in the Ashanti Region has issued a directive to all regional chairpersons in the 47 constituencies.
They are instructed to promptly remove all promotional materials associated with Kyerematen, including posters, banners, and campaign paraphernalia, from their party offices.
In a memorandum dated the same day and signed by Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, the party stressed that Kyerematen’s promotional materials are no longer relevant within the party offices due to his resignation.
The directive emphasized the need for fairness in removing these items from the party’s offices, given Kyerematen’s decision to forfeit his membership.
Alan Kyerematen’s departure from the NPP came a month after he withdrew from the party’s flagbearer race. He has since announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election as an independent candidate.
Mr Kyerematen explained during a media engagement on Monday that his decision aims to provide the NPP an opportunity to partake in a government of national unity, while reaffirming his commitment to the founding principles of the party.
The spokesperson for the Vice President’s campaign team, Nana Komea, has expressed confidence that Alan Kyerematen’s departure from the NPP will not adversely affect Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s prospects if he emerges victorious in the party’s primaries to lead.
Nana Komea emphasized that the breakaway move would have no significant impact on the party, dismissing any claims suggesting otherwise as mere speculation. He noted that during the Super Delegates Conference, they did not observe any significant shift in voter sentiment.
During an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, Nana Akomea underscored the importance of how their candidate effectively communicates their campaign message to both the party’s delegates and the wider Ghanaian electorate. Ultimately, their focus is on winning the upcoming presidential race scheduled for November 4.
“Looking at what is happening in the past within the NPP with one or two personalities breaking away, what is happening in other parties where key personalities broke away, we don’t think that this is going to have any significant impact on the electoral fortunes of Dr Bawumia,” he told host, Evans Mensah.
This development follows Mr. Kyerematen’s recent announcement of his decision to officially part ways with the NPP. He declared his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate in the upcoming 2024 election.
He explained, “My decision to contest as an Independent Candidate will not destroy the Party, but instead provide the Party an opportunity to participate in a Government of National Unity in the future, and avoid the risk of going into opposition with no dividends, in what arguably will be a difficult general election in 2024.”
In response to the resignation, he expressed a sense of disappointment regarding Mr. Kyerematen’s choice. He noted that Mr. Kyerematen had been a dedicated and involved member of the party since his initial affiliation.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that such departures have occurred periodically over the years, making it a familiar occurrence.
“If we go back into history, we have had similar incidents across parties, across political parties. In the lead-up to the 2000 election with candidate Kufuor, there was a breakaway from the party by some leading personalities at that time and they formed a party called UGM.”
“And if you also remember even the campaign manager of President Kufuor also broke away from the party and then joined the NDC but the NPP under Kufuor at that time still won the 2000 election,” he explained.
A video has emerged online showing the removal of campaign posters belonging to Alan Kyerematen from a New Patriotic Party (NPP) office.
The former Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Kyerematen, recently resigned from the NPP and declared his candidacy as an independent for the 2024 presidential elections.
In the footage, NPP members can be seen taking down these posters displayed on a building adorned with the party’s colors.
He is heard voicing his frustration, declaring, “You cannot take such a nonsense decision, and your posters will remain here,” as he removes the posters from the walls.
Another individual behind the camera is heard offering vocal support for the removal effort, repeatedly urging, “Remove them, remove them. Your posters cannot be pasted in our party office. You are not the one who rented the house for us.”
An aggrieved member is heard adding: “We have pampered you for a long time. You can’t come and destroy the party for us. You have enjoyed from the party, and now that you have realized that they are not good people…”
In his official statement, Alan Kyerematen said, “Under the circumstances and given the context, I am honorably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest the high office of the presidency of 2024 as an independent presidential candidate.”
In his official statement, Alan Kyerematen said, “Under the circumstances and given the context, I am honorably resigning from the New Patriotic Party to contest the high office of the presidency of 2024 as an independent presidential candidate.”
Former Trade and Industry Minister Alan Kyerematen, in a surprising move, announced his resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Monday, September 25.
This decision came as a shock to many, especially considering his recent third-place finish in the party’s super delegates conference held on August 26 for presidential hopefuls.
During his address to the nation at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Kyerematen provided the following explanations for his departure from the NPP.
Disfavour created against Alan to diminish his popularity
Mr. Kyerematen revealed that he had endured what he considered to be unfair treatment from the NPP for approximately 15 years.
“In 2007, I joined a distinguished group of seventeen (17) Presidential aspirants to contest in the presidential primaries of NPP. In that election, under very strange circumstances, the electoral process was truncated on the day of the election, on account of accusations levelled against me, of influencing the course of the elections. This strategy was designed to create disfavour against me, in an attempt to diminish my popularity and the massive support I enjoyed amongst the grassroot activists of the Party.”
He mentioned that despite the perceived conspiracy against him, he decided to throw his support behind then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to prevent a run-off.
Hostility and brutality
Mr. Kyerematen also expressed his concerns about the hostility and brutality directed at him and his supporters, despite all the sacrifices he had made for the party. He revealed that there were serious post-primary attacks against him and his supporters.
Despite lodging complaints with the party leadership and receiving assurances that his concerns would be addressed, little to nothing was done to halt these attacks.
“Despite the sacrifice that I made to unite the Party as referred to above, there were very serious post-primary attacks on my supporters all over the country and an open show of hostility. Some of my supporters were victims of brutalities and continue to bear the scars of that treatment. I made several representations to the then leadership of the Party, drawing their attention to the rancorous and divisive behaviour of some elements in the Party.
“Unfortunately, however, all the promises made by the Party leadership were never fulfilled, and indeed the divisive and hostile attacks on my person and my supporters remained for several years thereafter, and have continued to date.”
NPP’s National Council’s disregard for the rule of law
Mr. Kyerematen expressed his disappointment with the National Council of the NPP’s handling of the issues he raised following the super delegates’ conference of the party in August 2023.
He alleged that the conference was strategically and tactically biased in favor of one particular aspirant, and he had expected the Council to address this unfairness. However, they did not take any action to rectify the situation.
“In the run-up to the Super Delegates Conference, the National Council of the Party made some of the most controversial and contentious decisions in the history of the Party. They rejected a petition signed by nine out of the ten aspirants, requesting for the Super Delegates Conference to be held in one location, as well as allowing each Delegate to the Conference to nominate five persons, instead of one, in line with the provisions in the Party’s Constitution.
“To make matters worse, it was absolutely clear as indicated in my Press Statement of September 6th this year that, the Super Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favour of one particular aspirant. The level of intimidation and monetization that characterized the Conference is unprecedented in the history of internal elections of our Party.”
Hijacking of NPP by some persons
Mr. Kyerematen lamented that the New Patriotic Party has undergone an unhealthy transition in recent years and has been taken over by certain party leaders, making it impossible for him to remain a part of it.
“I have devoted the best part of my professional career to serving the Party, and I still believe in the vision of the founding fathers of the Party. However, the NPP as it exists now has very little resemblance to the Party that I joined in 1992 and helped to nurture. The Party has been hijacked by a selected group of Party leaders and elders, government appointees, “behind the curtain power brokers” and some unscrupulous Party apparatchiks.”
Ghana’s rising unemployment figures
He also expressed concern about the alarming youth unemployment figures. He stated that his resignation and decision to contest the 2024 polls as an independent candidate are motivated by his desire to contribute his part in addressing and resolving this unfortunate issue.
“It is also worth noting that every year over 300,000 (three hundred thousand) graduates from tertiary institutions in Ghana, excluding those from secondary institutions, enter the job market with little or no hope of finding a job. Clearly, public sector employment is not an option, with an already over-bloated public service. This phenomenon of pervasive employment crisis, is gradually becoming a national security threat, as evidenced by the recent “Occupy Julorbi House” demonstrations. The initial reaction of the Police in manhandling some protestors is not the solution to the problem. What Ghana needs now is CHANGE, which will provide long-lasting solutions to the challenges confronting our country.”
Today, Monday, July 3 the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will begin the vetting process for its presidential aspirants ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Among the candidates to be vetted today are Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Kwadwo Poku, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The vetting will continue on July 4 with other candidates including Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.
The remaining candidates will undergo vetting on July 5 and 6. The NPP will hold a special congress on August 26 to select five candidates for the primary elections scheduled for November 4.
The vetting process will be overseen by a nine-member committee chaired by Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, a former Speaker of Parliament.
