Minister for Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has announced that the Ghana Police have successfully arrested 16 individuals involved in the intrusion at UTV studios. This development follows the disturbing incident on October 7th when alleged NPP members and other individuals invaded the private TV station in Accra.
In a press release, Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah stated, “The Ministry of Information acted swiftly on Saturday, October 7th, 2023, by reporting the incident to the Ghana Police Service, resulting in the arrest of 16 individuals at the UTV premises.”
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding law and order, condemning any unauthorized entry into media organizations, interference with media work, or protests against media content. He emphasized the importance of protecting free expression and media freedom as essential components of Ghana’s democracy.
“The right to free expression and the freedom of the media are key pillars of our democracy and must be fiercely protected. The Ministry stands with the police and the courts in the conduct of their duties,” Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah emphasized. He also encouraged media outlets, especially broadcast media show hosts and panelists, to contribute to promoting national cohesion while exercising their fundamental freedoms.
Alleged thugs reportedly affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) caused a commotion during a live broadcast of the United Showbiz program on UTV, as they threatened physical confrontation with musician and activist Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus. The incident unfolded on Saturday, October 7, 2023, raising concerns about political intimidation and freedom of expression.
Approximately seven minutes into the live show, viewers and host Mzgee were taken aback as agitated voices and disruptions filled the studio. Witnesses reported that the disruption was initiated by a group of individuals who had entered the studio with apparent hostile intentions directed towards A Plus, a regular panel member on the program.
The group, believed to be NPP supporters, reportedly entered the studio with the aim of confronting A Plus regarding his recent actions during a prior broadcast. A Plus had vocally criticized a letter addressed to UTV by the NPP leadership, in which they demanded reforms to the United Showbiz program and expressed concerns about its content.
Subsequent videos shared on social media captured the tense and chaotic atmosphere within the studio. The videos showed individuals calling out for A Plus and demanding that he provide an explanation for his actions. One of the men was heard shouting that they were “protecting party property” and waiting for A Plus.
The disruption led to an extended break in the production of the program, which was eventually taken off the air, leaving viewers stunned and concerned about the implications for freedom of expression and media independence in Ghana.
The incident follows A Plus’s public tearing of the NPP’s letter during a previous broadcast on September 30, 2023. In that episode, A Plus strongly criticized the content of the letter and its implications for media independence. He argued that such actions could undermine the constitutional provisions regarding media freedom and freedom of expression.
The NPP leadership had written to UTV expressing concerns about the program’s content, particularly the criticism directed at the government and its leaders during recent episodes. They noted an increase in disparaging comments targeting President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, which they found alarming.
The disruption of the live broadcast and the alleged intimidation tactics employed by the individuals involved have ignited a national conversation about the importance of media freedom, the role of political parties in influencing media content, and the need to safeguard democratic values and principles in Ghana.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Agyapong has stated his stance on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) activities.
According to him, such practises have no place within the confines of his household.
Speaking in an interview on Starr FM on October 5, 2023, Kennedy Agyapong posited that he is a traditionalist, and as a result, such activities contradict his standards.
He was asked by host Bola Ray: “If one of your children comes over to you and says he or she now identifies as gay, what will be your reaction or response?”
Ken responded, “Look, I am a traditionalist. I don’t want to hear that nonsense.”
When asked to repeat his response, Agyapong reinforced his stance by reiterating, “I am a traditionist, case closed.”
“So, if they should come to you and identify as gay?” The host asked again.
To this, Agyapong responded with a tone of finality, “You dare not, case closed. I am a traditionalist; you dare not.”
In Ghana, there is significant public support for LGBTQ+ practises, even as an anti-gay bill aiming to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities is currently under consideration by the Ghanaian parliament.
Kennedy Agyapong is set to compete for the flagbearership alongside three other contenders: Dr. Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, has denied claims suggesting that he plans to exit the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Private legal practitioner, Maurice Ampaw, has asserted that Kennedy Agyapong will part ways with the ruling New Patriotic Party following the much-anticipated presidential primaries slated for November 4.
According to Lawyer Ampaw, the presidential aspirant would only exit the ruling party if he failed to emerge as a flagbearer at the end of the day.
He noted that recent actions by Mr Agyapong indicate to him that he will join Alan Kyerematen who recently exited the ruling party owing to challenges with the electoral processes to elect a flagbearer, among others.
“I can tell you on authority that he doesn’t want to be part of NPP. He has decided, per his actions, show that if you don’t vote for him on November 4, he will leave the party and follow Alan,” he said.
In recent times, there has been bad blood between Mr Agyapong and some members of the NPP including Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi at a press conference in Kumasi earlier on Wednesday, threatened to cause the arrest of Kennedy Agyapong if he “threatens” him again.
In spite of all these developments, Mr Agyapong noted that he remains a member of the party, and a proud one at that.
He made this known during an interview on Starr FM.
“I am not disassociating myself from the NPP. I am still a proud NPP,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Assin-North and presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party, Kennedy Agyapong, has revealed that he has equitably distributed his assets among his children as a preventive measure against potential disputes when he is no longer alive.
Mr. Agyapong, who has 22 children from 12 different women, disclosed that each of his children has received a house.
During an interview with Bola Ray, the NPP flagbearer aspirant explained that he made this decision to prevent any scenario where one of his heirs might lay claim to all his properties and dominate the others after his passing.
“I have five wives, so long as you have a child with them, you are indebted to them. And every one of them has a home. Every child of my child has a house because if you don’t do that, one day if you die, one woman can collect everything and leave other kids,” he expressed.
When questioned why he didn’t choose to establish trust funds for his children instead, the lawmaker responded:
“I don’t believe in trust funds. I dish out everyone’s properties to them while I am alive. I don’t want them fighting when I am dead. In that case, no one can bully others for theirs.”
Mr. Agyapong also expressed that although he has distributed his properties to his children, there is a highly enviable one that is acquired in his name.
He also talked openly about the relationships amongst his partners.
“They are not friends but one of them is very tolerant; she allows the others to bring over their children. You know, you have to give them that space, you don’t have to disrespect anybody,” he expressed.
Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has unveiled his plan to establish a fund aimed at promoting the construction of additional studios in Ghana with the aim of bolstering the creative arts industry.
He highlighted the scarcity of high-quality movie and music video production in the country and emphasised the necessity of injecting more financial resources to facilitate the work of artists and producers.
Expressing concern over the insufficient number of studios in Ghana, which has been hindering the progress of the creative arts sector, the NPP flagbearer aspirant pledged that if elected as the nation’s president, he would initiate a program to construct additional studios.
During an interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM, on Thursday, October 5, 2023, Kennedy Agyapong elaborated on his comprehensive plans to enhance the entertainment industry in the country.
“Let me tell you something: we need to build fantastic studios over here. What I don’t like is why is it that any good music or show, they have to go and do it in Dubai, South Africa. We are going to do it here under my presidency. Nice studios. Let others also come here, we are human beings.
“We have to challenge ourselves; we need nice studios.When you enter the studio, like what you’ve done, you should be proud of and you can change it for the next artiste. So we need beautiful studios over here. We have to create a fund for them [the creative arts industry], because to produce a good movie or song, you need a lot of money,” said Kennedy Agyapong.
Kennedy Agyapong is vying for the position of flagbearer within the ruling New Patriotic Party. His competitors in this race include Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Afriyie Akoto, and former legislator Francis Addai Nimo.
The party’s primaries are scheduled to take place on November 4, 2023.
Kennedy Agyapong, a presidential candidate hopeful within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has candidly expressed his distress towards some party members especially those whom he asserts to have supported and aided in the past..
According to to him, there are several individuals in the party he has assisted but they are now rallying behind Vice President Bawumia in his bid for the presidency, rather than supporting his own presidential aspirations
For this reason he said “ I am very very bitter. Especially those who are not ministers that I have helped. My wife tells me to try and control the rage. I am very bitter.These MPs, the help that I have given them and some of them they come and their excuse is that if I support you… and it is true. One MP declared that he was going to support me and they threatened him that your market at Akim Oda they are not going to do it.”
“That is how bad the situation is, they have threatened a lot of MPs that if you don’t follow one person, they are going to bring another person to contest you, and all of them are afraid,” he stated.
Mr Agyapong additionally stated that “I wouldn’t have known my enemies if I had not contested.”
Also, he specifically mentioned an MP, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, who represents the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai constituency in the Western North Region.
According to Ken, he had personally provided assistance and actively campaigned for Obeng-Boateng in the past.
But despite his past support, Obeng-Boateng is now actively campaigning against him.
“Last week one of them that I helped, I will never forgive him but after November 4th he will see what will happen. You see, if you are not even going to vote for me, you have a choice and I don’t have a problem.
“But the people in his constituency know that I went there to campaign for him, and this man picks up a phone and calls delegates, telling them not to vote for Kennedy Agyapong, but to vote for number two on the ballot. And then one of them asked him why, and he said Kennedy Agyapong doesn’t know how to talk,” he added.
He continued “I campaigned for him in Bibiani; I am not afraid of him, Alfred Obeng. I left his place at 1:00 a.m. for this man to tell me that I don’t know how to talk. I can never forgive that guy.”
A hopeful candidate for the flagbearer position within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has singled out one MP, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, representing the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai constituency in the Western North Region for campaigning against him.
According to Ken, this is a man he rallied so much support for in the past.
He finds it very disappointing that Mr Alfred Obeng-Boateng is now heavily campaigning against him.
“Last week one of them that I have helped, I will never forgive him but after November 4th he will see what will happen. You see, if you are not even going to vote for me, you have a choice and I don’t have a problem.
“But the people in his constituency know that I went there to campaign for him, and this man picks up a phone and calls delegates, telling them not to vote for Kennedy Agyapong, but to vote for number two on the ballot. And then one of them asked him why, and he said Kennedy Agyapong doesn’t know how to talk,” he added.
He continued “I campaigned for him in Bibiani; I am not afraid of him, Alfred Obeng. I left his place at 1:00 a.m. for this man to tell me that I don’t know how to talk. I can never forgive that guy.”
He also revealed that during a difficult phase in Obeng-Boateng’s career, he extended his assistance, recounting, “When he encountered issues at BOST and was dismissed, he often sought solace in my home, sometimes staying until as late as 1:00 am.”
Kennedy will vie for the NPP flagbearer position, competing against three other contenders: Dr. Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The NPP has scheduled the leadership transition for November 4, 2023, when they will select a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the party’s leader.
Aspirant for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP)Kennedy Agyapong, flagbearer position, recently shared his feelings of resentment towards certain Members of Parliament.
He specifically mentioned those whom he asserts to have assisted in the past.
During an interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM’s Starr Chat program, which took place on October 5, 2023, Agyapong claimed that these particular MPs have now distanced themselves from him as he competes for the NPP’s flagbearer role.
“I am very bitter that if I had not contested, I wouldn’t have known my enemies, these MPs, the help that I have given them,” he lamented.
He singled out one MP, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, representing the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai constituency in the Western North Region, whom he claims to have personally assisted and campaigned for in the past.
Agyapong expressed his disappointment, saying that despite his support, Obeng-Boateng is now campaigning against him.
“Last week, one of them that I helped, I will never forgive him but after November 4th, he will see what will happen. You see, if you are not even going to vote for me, you have a choice and I don’t have a problem.
“But the people in his constituency know that I went there to campaign for him, and this man picks up a phone and calls delegates, telling them not to vote for Kennedy Agyapong but to vote for number two on the ballot. And then one of them asked him why, and he said Kennedy Agyapong doesn’t know how to talk,” he added.
He continued, “I campaigned for him in Bibiani; I am not afraid of him, Alfred Obeng. I left his place at 1:00 a.m. for this man to tell me that I don’t know how to talk. I can never forgive that guy.”
He also disclosed that when Obeng-Boateng faced challenges in his career, he provided support, stating, “When they sacked him from BOST, he was always in my house till about 1:00 am, consoling him.
“If it were in America, they would say he has depression. And this man, if you won’t vote for me, that’s not a problem, but for you to go and tell your delegates that Kennedy Agyapong doesn’t know how to talk, I leave him to God.”
Kennedy Agyapong is one of the four contenders competing for the NPP flagbearer position, alongside Dr. Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The NPP has scheduled the leadership succession election for November 4, 2023, as they seek to identify a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
In a recent interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM’s Starr Chat, Kennedy Agyapong, an aspiring flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), candidly revealed his feelings of bitterness towards certain Members of Parliament.
He specifically mentioned those he claims to have supported in the past but who, he alleges, have now distanced themselves from him as he competes for the NPP’s flagbearer position.
Former People’s National Convention (PNC) General Secretary, Atik Mohammed, has made assertions that there is a leadership gap in the NPP due to recent striking revelations made by some members of the party.
According to him, there is a lack of accountability and no leader taking responsibility to restore order and unify those who have drifted away from the party.
“Gone were the days where there were people like J.H.Mensa, BJ da Rocha, Dan Botwe and such figure heads who will call people people to other but its not like that anymore.”
“I have seen that there is showdowns and bombshells in the NPP. This shows there is a serious vacuum in the NPP.
Recently, tensions have escalated between Mr. Kennedy Agyapong and certain members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi. Chairman Wontumi, during a press conference in Kumasi, issued a threat to have Kennedy Agyapong arrested if he made further threats against him.
In response, Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign team in the Ashanti Region has dismissed Chairman Wontumi’s threat to have the flagbearer aspirant arrested.
He says the current dispute between Chairman Wontumi and Kennedy Agyapong has the potential of affecting the party’s chances during the 2024 elections.
He thus urged leaders of the NPP to rise up and silence every foe before the general election unfolds.
Private legal practitioner, Maurice Ampaw, has asserted that Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, will part ways with the ruling New Patriotic Party following the much-anticipated presidential primaries slated for November 4.
According to Lawyer Ampaw, the presidential aspirant would only exit the ruling party if he fails to emerge flagbearer at the end of the day.
He noted that recent actions by Mr Agyapong indicate to him that he join Alan Kyerematen who recently exited the ruling party owing to challenges with the electoral processes to elect a flagbearer, among others.
“I can tell you on authority that he doesn’t want to be part of NPP. He has decided, per his actions, show that if you don’t vote for him on November 4, he will leave the party and follow Alan,” he said.
In recent times, there has been bad blood between Mr Agyapong and some members of the NPP including Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi at a press conference in Kumasi earlier on Wednesday threatened to cause the arrest of Kennedy Agyapong if he “threatens” him again.
But Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign team in the Ashanti Region has called the bluff of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, over his threat to cause the arrest of the flagbearer aspirant.
Meanwhile, a member of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) communication team, Kwadwo Danquah, has also projected that Mr Kennedy Agyapong will leave the NPP.
According to Mr Kwadwo Danquah, he expects Mr Agaypong to follow the footsteps of former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen owing to the alleged maltreatment meted out to them by the leadership of the ruling party.
The Eastern Regional Communications Office made the prediction during an interview on Power FM on September 26, 2023.
“When they go to their office, they go for Kan Dapaah’s boys to come and beat them and destroy their cars. That is what they did to Alan and for that, he has resigned from the party. That thing Akufo-Addo is doing may cause the downfall of the NPP. Mark my words today, Ken Agyapong will also go independent. He will resign and go independent.”
“I am the Eastern Regional Communications Officer; I am saying it on your platform. Today is 26th September 2023, I’m saying after they conclude the November primaries, Kennedy Agyapong will go independent.”
Private legal practitioner, Maurice Ampaw, believes presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, is working up to exit the party.
According to Lawyer Ampaw, the Assin Central MP’s strategy is to have delegates elect him as the NPP’s flagbearer ahead of the 2024 election or break away from the party.
I can tell you on authority that he doesn’t want to be part of NPP. He has decided, per his actions, show that if you don’t vote for him on November 4, he will leave the party and follow Alan,” he said.
He further explained that “To him, some pastors have prophesied that he would become president, so delegates of the NPP have no choice. He said, I’ve told I’d be come President. While Alan said it is my turn, Ken said I’ve been told I’ll become president. So if he doesn’t become president, he cannot support anyone. If you have such a personality in the party who is putting the party on notice that if he isn’t the one, no one can win. And because no one can win, he will go Independent.”
Recently, tensions have escalated between Mr. Kennedy Agyapong and certain members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi. Chairman Wontumi, during a press conference in Kumasi, issued a threat to have Kennedy Agyapong arrested if he made further threats against him.
In response, Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign team in the Ashanti Region has dismissed Chairman Wontumi’s threat to have the flagbearer aspirant arrested.
Meanwhile, a member of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) communication team, Kwadwo Danquah, has speculated that Mr. Kennedy Agyapong may leave the NPP. According to Danquah, he anticipates that Kennedy Agyapong might follow the path of former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen due to alleged mistreatment by the leadership of the ruling party.
This prediction was made by the Eastern Regional Communications Office during an interview on Power FM on September 26, 2023.
“When they go to their office, they go for Kan Dapaah’s boys to come and beat them and destroy their cars. That is what they did to Alan and for that, he has resigned from the party. That thing Akufo-Addo is doing may cause the downfall of the NPP. Mark my words today, Ken Agyapong will also go independent. He will resign and go independent.”
“I am the Eastern Regional Communications Officer; I am saying it on your platform. Today is 26th September 2023, I’m saying after they conclude the November primaries, Kennedy Agyapong will go independent.”
Jamaludeen A. Abdullah, a member of the New Patriotic Party and a member of the Government communication team, has proposed that a sobriety test should be included as part of the apology process to verify that the Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency, Francis Xavier-Sosu, was not under the influence of any substances when he made his offensive remarks.
The OccupyBoG demonstration, organized by the National Democratic Party and its affiliate, the Minority in Parliament, occurred in Accra on Tuesday, with protesters gathering to voice their concerns regarding the GH₵60 billion loss incurred by the Bank of Ghana.
During the event, Francis Xavier Sosu attracted controversy for his comments directed at the country’s leadership.
In reaction to the viral video of his remarks, Xavier-Sosu released a public apology and acknowledged accountability for his actions, stating, “I take complete responsibility for those words, and I apologize for them.”
However, Mr. Jamaludeen A. Abdullah, representing the NPP on the GTV Breakfast show, raised doubts about the authenticity of the apology, remarking, ” “I believe he (Xavier-Sosu) should’ve submitted a sobriety test to show or prove to Ghanaians that he wasn’t under the influence of anything when he made those distasteful statements.”
Mr. Jamaludeen also voiced his disapproval of the National Democratic Party (NDC) for its language choices, specifically their description of the head of security at the Bank of Ghana as a “watchman,” which he deemed as disrespectful to the highly regarded security leader of such an important institution.
This request for a sobriety test by Mr. Jamaludeen introduces a fresh element into the ongoing controversy surrounding Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu’s comments during the OccupyBoG demonstration.
Kennedy Agyapong, who serves as theMember of Parliament for Assin Central and is also a potential flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has addressed a viral video, emphasising that he did not accuse the NPP of recklessly depleting the nation’s resources with no concern for the future, as depicted in the video clip.
He clarified that the video had been taken from a private meeting he held with some NPP communicators in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, over the past weekend. In the video, the Assin Central MP criticised the NPP for engaging in activities that raised serious concerns, alleging that they were “plundering” the country without considering its long-term consequences.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, Agyapong argued that the video had been intentionally edited to damage his reputation and cast a negative light on the Akufo-Addo government.
“My attention has been drawn to a video on social media that has since gone viral where I am heard saying that the NPP was looting the country as if there was not tomorrow. I wish to state that this is a complete and unfortunate misrepresentation of the actual content and focus of my message at that private event in Kumasi. It was a meeting with a small group of NPP communicators who had organised a small fundraising event for me at the weekend.
“At the event, I lamented the fact that our communicators were letting the party down and that every government would have its fair share of corruption cases, especially in 8 years, but because of one or two bad cases which the authorities were handling and in a transparent manner as it should be, we have, sadly, allowed the ruthless opposition propaganda machinery, the mass media and the social media to create the deadly impression that NPP was looting as If there was no tomorrow, including allegations of stashing funds abroad,” part of the statement read.
Agyapong went on to provide further clarification, stating that the video had been recorded during a private meeting and had been deliberately edited with the intent to sow discord, tarnish his reputation, and negatively impact the government’s standing.
“I wish to stress the point that the offending video was culled from a private meeting with some communicators in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, over the weekend and edited to purposefully create disaffection towards me, Ken Ohene, and Agyapong and to bring the Akufo-Addo government into disrepute.
“Indeed, I told the gathering not to be fooled by the lies against our government and party and also expressed my anger and unhappiness about the way we were allowing ourselves to be unfairly bashed in the media, especially social media, as if we were worse than the NDC, which is certainly not the case,” the statement further read.
Kennedy Agyapong maintained that he was focused on helping the party break the eight, as that is their mantra.
“I remain a committed member of our great party and hope to lead us in our quest to ‘break the eight’, as together, we faceJohn Mahama and the NDC for the “showdown” on December 7, 2024,” the statement read in its concluding part.
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu has charged religious bodies, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to form and alliance and churn out a presidential candidate who will be able to end the duopoly in the political space.
Since the emergence of the 4th Republic, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have dominated the political space.
Both parties have had the opportunity to govern for two successive terms each (8 years) without any other political party coming close to disrupting the cycle.
Ahead of the 2024 elections, the ruling NPP is committed to breaking the cycle and extending their governance to 12 years but the NDC is unwavering in their quest to reclaim power.
For some Ghanaians, this cycle has proven not to augur well for the country as the economy has not been able to develop as expected under the two parties.
As such, the likes of Martin Kpebu want a strong third force that will be able to give the two major political parties a run for their money.
Engaging in a discussion on TV3’s The Key Point, the lawyer entreated churches, CSOs and TUC to make up the third force.
“The NPP and NDC, they are getting swollen headed. It is as if they know that come what may in eight years they will return. I wish they do four, four. I am waiting for the churches, the CSOs and TUC to come up with a candidate. Because we are looking for anything other than NPP and NDC. Anything other thing will do,” he said.
Stressing the potential of the TUC, he called on the Congress to learn from their mistakes when they failed to establish an effective party in the 1970s.
“TUC has to rise up. In the 70s, TUC formed a party and it collapsed. It doesn’t mean they cannot try again. In the UK, it works. The Labour Party. Is it not the Labour people that formed the basis. Let’s go into our history. If TUC tried in the 70s and it didn’t work, does that mean that they should forever stop? You try again. In life, when you fall, do you continue lying down, don’t you get up?” he said.
For some individuals, former Trade Minister, Kwadwo Alan Kyeremanten, who has parted ways from the NPP to go independent is likely the third force Ghanaians have been praying for.
But according to Mr Kpebu, any things who is deeply embedded with the two major parties cannot be the third force needed to reckon with the NPP or NDC.
“So it is good that Alan has come for a third party though I don’t support Alan. No, no. He is too much of NPP. He would come and repeat the same things because the thing is that for all these years why was he quiet. He was Akufo-Addo, he kept quiet. I expected that from where he sits, when he saw that the ship was sinking, he couldn’t even leave early. He sat there so he was part of the problems. Alan doesn’t appeal to me, to be very honest. There is no way I can give him my vote.”
“There is no way I will go for someone deeply embedded with NPP or NDC,” he added.
Market women at Kumasi Central Market have expressed their dissatisfaction with recent comments made by New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong.
They perceive his remarks as being tribal and not in line with the NPP’s principles.
The Assin Central Member of Parliament (MP), Kennedy Agyapong, sparked controversy when he voiced concerns about a potential all-northern contest in the 2024 election, urging the NPP to avoid such a scenario.
Addressing the press on Monday, October 2, the market women, who identified themselves as NPP members, firmly rejected Mr Agyapong’s comments, emphasizing that the NPP is not a tribal party.
The leader of the NPP Women in Kumasi Central Market
One of the market women stated, “we have been observing what Kennedy has been saying lately, the tribal comments he has been making,” said one of the market women, who was surrounded by her colleagues.
She continued, “recently, he said during an interview abroad that Mahama is a Northerner and others too are northerners, so we should not elect Bawumia, and that the NPP should elect an Akan. But we want to tell him that the NPP is not for Akans. The NPP is a national party for all Ghanaians.”
The women emphasized that the NPP should select its leader and presidential candidate based on competence and qualifications, rather than regional or tribal considerations. They expressed their support for Dr. Bawumia, stating that he has proven himself to be the best candidate for the job.
“It is all about who is the best to lead, who is competent, and who can do the job,” they asserted. “For us here in Kumasi Central Market, we have been discussing amongst ourselves and with the people who patronize our products. What we are saying is that without Bawumia, we won’t vote. No Bawumia, no vote.”
As loyal NPP members, the market women stressed their desire to see Dr. Bawumia elected as the party’s candidate and urged the party’s decision-makers to consider their appeal.
“It is all about who is the best to lead. Who is competent and who can do the job. For us here in Kumasi Central Market, we have been discussing amongst ourselves and with the people who patronise our products. What we are saying is that without Bawumia, we won’t vote. No Bawumia, no vote.
“We are NPP people here in this market and we also want to break the 8. So we have consulted widely within us and from those who patronise our goods. Anyone you ask, they say Bawumia so we are sending a special appeal to the kingmakers to elect Bawumia.”
A 37-year-old man named Tahiru Mahama has tragically lost his life, after he was shot by armed robbers while traveling on the Langbinsi-Wundua road in the East Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region.
The incident occurred on October 1, 2023, as Mahama was on his way from Tinguri in the West Mamprusi Municipality to his hometown in Chirifoyiri in the East Mamprusi Municipality.
Eyewitnesses reported that Mahama’s lifeless body showed signs of extreme bleeding and severe injuries, including gunshot wounds to the chest and arm, indicating a struggle during the attack.
Abdulai Tahiru Yampasia, the deceased’s younger brother, expressed his shock and sorrow at the news of his sibling’s death.
He mentioned that Mahama appeared to have fought hard but received no assistance during the ordeal.
The Langbinsi-Wundua road has been in a state of disrepair for many years, and despite attempts to award contracts for its improvement, no significant progress has been made. The road’s poor condition has made it a hotspot for criminal activities, with two fatal robbery incidents reported between 2019 and 2023.
After undergoing a body autopsy at the Baptist Medical Center in Nalerigu, Mahama was laid to rest on the same day, following Islamic traditions.
A potential flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has voiced apprehensions regarding the party’s prospects in the upcoming 2024 election.
He contends that the NPP is currently at substantial risk of losing the election due to declining morale among its core supporters.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto conveyed these concerns during a media interaction in Kumasi while on a tour in preparation for the November 4th delegates’ conference.
He highlighted the prevalent low morale among NPP activists nationwide, who had anticipated an improved quality of life, signaling that the party might not be favorably positioned to secure another term.
“It is clear to me that morale is very low. The expectation of our activists around the country for a better life has not been realised so the NPP is not in a good place to contest to retain power next year and we have to address this issue seriously.”
He emphasized the importance of addressing this issue seriously, acknowledging the disconnect between the expectations of party activists and the current reality.
In an appeal to party delegates, he urged them to exercise their voting power wisely during the November 4th conference by choosing him as the party leader.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto stressed the vital connection between his leadership and the welfare and prosperity of the NPP. He cited his profound comprehension of grassroots issues derived from his experience as a Member of Parliament in Kwadaso, Kumasi.
He stated, “anybody who aspires to bear the flag of the NPP, that should be the priority. I have a very clear understanding of the problems on the ground, I have been a member of Parliament at Kwadaso so I understand the concerns expressed by activists on the ground.”
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, a potential flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has voiced his concern regarding the party’s prospects in the upcoming 2024 election. He contends that the NPP is presently confronted with a substantial risk of losing the election, primarily due to a declining sense of enthusiasm among its core supporters.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto conveyed these concerns during a media engagement in Kumasi, where he is presently engaged in a tour ahead of the November 4th delegates’ conference. He underscored the prevalent low morale among NPP activists throughout the country, who had initially harbored expectations of experiencing an improved quality of life. This prevailing sentiment, according to him, signals that the party may encounter challenges in securing a successful electoral outcome in the upcoming election and breaking the eight-year cycle.
“It is clear to me that morale is very low. The expectation of our activists around the country for a better life has not been realised so the NPP is not in a good place to contest to retain power next year and we have to address this issue seriously.”
In an appeal to the party delegates, he urged them to make their votes count during the November 4th conference by electing him as the party leader.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto underscored the integral connection between his leadership and the well-being and success of the NPP. He highlighted his profound comprehension of grassroots issues, which he has gained through his tenure as a Member of Parliament in Kwadaso, Kumasi. This practical experience positions him as a candidate who can address the party’s challenges effectively and work towards its prosperity.
“Anybody who aspires to bear the flag of the NPP, that should be the priority. I have a very clear understanding of the problems on the ground, I have been a member of Parliament at Kwadaso so I understand the concerns expressed by activists on the ground.”
Former member of parliament of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) representing Obuasi East, Edward Michael Ennin, has made a claim that government-owned houses, originally priced at one million dollars, are allegedly being sold to party members for prices ranging between US$300,000 and US$400,000.
During a radio interview, he expressed his dismay over what he perceived as a significant erosion of the core values that the NPP traditionally upheld, highlighting the accumulation of illicit wealth and the misuse of state funds by both party leaders and its members.
Regarding the specific allegation, Ennin informed Akoma FM, a Kumasi-based radio station, that he possessed receipts related to some of these alleged sales and was prepared to make them public if necessary.
“If they continue daring some of us like this, the party will end up in a ditch,” he cautioned an Ashanti Regional spokesperson who was calling his bluff on an issue he had earlier raised on the show.
“Recently, government houses that cost US$1 million haven’t been purchased for 300,000 and 400,000 USD? I know people who bought some and I have receipts to that effect and can pinpoint the ministry involved,” he disclosed.
Laments rising spate of looting
He alleged that leaders and members of the NPP have been involved in misappropriating state resources.
“The NPP party has collapsed, just that people haven’t realised it yet. If we continue like this, we will be destroyed. The kind of things that are ongoing, if I look at when I joined the party, if the NPP was like this, I swear to my father’s grave, who was an NLM member and suffered for the party, that if this was the state of the party, I wouldn’t have joined.
“Because all the leaders have turned into corrupt officials. The youth are stealing, and the leaders are stealing. I have never seen such a thing in my life,” he said.
He contended that while the NDC had faced criticism for corruption during its time in office, the NPP, now in power, is involved in practises that he believes are even more detrimental.
He added, “When the NDC was in power and they were stealing, some of us came out to condemn them, and everybody is aware that John Mahama didn’t get it easy with me.
“When Kennedy Agyapong was disgracing John Mahama, they were praising him. Now that he is talking about their actions, they are saying he is destroying the party.
“What I am saying is that the party that we used to know is no more because some of us sat on the radio to accuse Mahama of stealing money, and now we are doing worse things,” he added.
Journalist and private legal practitioner Kuuku Welsing Jones expressed his opinion regarding former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopefulAlan Kyerematen’s decision to resign from the party.
While he acknowledged that it may not be the ideal course of action, Kuuku Welsing voiced his partial support for Alan’s choice.
During his appearance on the recent episode of the KSM Show, Kuuku Welsing asserted that Alan had found himself caught up in a campaign of hostility led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“I do support to an extent; the fact is simple. Breaking away from the party is not the best but the argument for this is that the party hierarchy has made up their mind who is to contest and so the whole thing looks like a sham.
“Now Alan has some grievances; don’t forget that in 2008, in April, I think the 17th of April, Alan resigned from the party and Alan was persuaded to come back and he came back.
“Now the issue is this; let’s face it. Look, animosity and jealousy are all part of the game. Alan contested Nana on three occasions and if anybody tells you that Nana likes Alan, tell the person I say it is not true,” he stated.
Even though he had served as a trade minister in both of Nana Addo’s presidential terms, Kuuku Welsing pointed out that the association between the president and the now-independent candidate had always been based on convenience.
This remained true until his decision to resign and run for the NPP flagbearership.
“Look, he doesn’t like Alan. It’s like a marriage of convenience,” he stated.
He stressed that due to Mr. Kyerematen’s origins in the Ashanti Region, a stronghold of the NPP, President Akufo-Addo felt compelled to include him in his government.
After securing third place in theNPP’s special college poll held in August, Mr. Kyerematen disclosed his resignation from the party in September, citing concerns over threats, intimidation, and mistreatment directed at his supporters.
He also declared his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election.
Member of Parliament for Tema West, Carlos Ahenkorah, has called upon the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to initiate peace talks with Kennedy Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi in the interest of party unity.
Ahenkorah expressed concern that without proper control over these two influential figures in the party, their ongoing verbal attacks on each other could undermine the party’s internal peace and its pursuit of a third consecutive term in government.
The appeal from Ahenkorah follows recent remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong, a potential NPP presidential candidate, in which he leveled allegations against the party’s leadership. Agyapong accused the NPP of engaging in activities that he found deeply troubling, suggesting that they were “looting” the country without regard for its future.
In response to these allegations, Carlos Ahenkorah emphasized the need for measured and responsible responses from prominent party figures, such as Agyapong and Chairman Wontumi, as their statements have the potential to significantly impact party cohesion.
He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, “as a matter of urgency, if the leaders of the party do not speak with Ken and Wuntumi, the outcome will not be to the benefit of the party. If you want the party to enjoy some peace and break the eight, then both Ken and Wuntumi must be called and spoken to”.
Ahenkorah acknowledged that Agyapong’s recent comments were not drastically different from his past statements but highlighted the increased scrutiny associated with his presidential aspirations, calling for a more cautious approach to sensitive issues.
“What he said is not very different from what he has been saying all these while, except that some of the things he said in Kumasi carry some weight. I want to use this opportunity to plead with Kennedy Agyapong, whether he accepts it or not, he is a forerunner of the party. Now, he wants to run as a flagbearer of the party.
“His reaction to certain situations and his delivery to same situations should inform him that people are watching and based on that, they will decide whether to share thoughts with you or not. Many people are expecting that all the things he used to say when he was just a member of parliament, he will relax on some of them particularly because he is a presidential aspirant,” he stated.
He continued “You cannot change Ken because he has his own personality and he is a self-made person but if he should continue on this tangent, those who feel victimised by this approach are likely going to confront him on that.”
Ahenkorah also expressed concern about Chairman Wontumi’s recent remarks, in which he hinted at disclosing secrets about Kennedy Agyapong if the latter misbehaved. He questioned the need for such statements and urged the party to avoid division.
In conclusion, Carlos Ahenkorah emphasized the importance of maintaining party unity and addressing internal disputes through dialogue and constructive engagement rather than public confrontations and disclosures.
“Apart from his comments as well, I saw a publication that was attributed to Wontumi. He was also quoted saying that if Ken should misbehave, he would also reveal some secrets of his, I mean why should we get to this? Why must we sell ourselves to the NDC for them to get us on that pedestal?
“I know Ken and I know Wontumi, they are very good friends and so, if comments such as these are made by Wuntumi then it is concerning. Why will he come out to make such statements, why must we get ourselves to that point,” he questioned.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has paid tribute to the late former First Lady, Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, who passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
Additionally, the party has issued a directive for its flags to be flown at half-mast throughout the country as a mark of respect and mourning for her passing.
Mrs. Kufuor, the beloved wife of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, passed away at the age of 87 at her residence in Peduase.
The NPP in a statement signed and issued on Monday by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong stated that “Mrs Kufuor was a beacon for female advancement, fostering initiatives to inspire and empower both young and adult females in various facets of life. The members of the ruling NPP, together with all Ghanaians whose lives were positively touched by her, extend our deepest condolences to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, their children, and the entire family.”
“We stand united with you in this time of sorrow, praying that the Almighty God grants all of us the fortitude to bear this great loss. In tribute to the memory of the late Mrs Kufuor, the NPP directs that all Party flags across the country be flown at half-mast for the next seven days. May her gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace until we meet again on the resurrection morning. Damirifa Due!”
Meanwhile, Dr. Kwabena Osei-Adubofour, who serves as a special aide and spokesperson for former President John Agyekum Kufuor, has provided an update on the former president’s condition following the passing of his wife, Theresa Kufuor.
During an interview with Citi News, Dr. Osei-Adubofour shared that the octogenarian former president is showing encouraging signs of recovery. He also conveyed the former president’s request for the public to keep the Kufuor family in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
“It was very sad and shocking, and it happened yesterday late in the afternoon and the old man [former president Kufuor] did not take it kindly at all because it was a shock to him but this morning, I’ve seen that he has recovered to some extent from the shock,” Dr. Osei-Adubofour said.
“You know, he is old enough to understand death and normally when people come to inform us about the bereavement of other people, he kept on saying death is a journey everyone will embark on, and so he understands and had tuned his mind to it despite that the initial occurrence was very serious and shocking.”
Dr. Osei-Adubofour also made an appeal to those intending to visit and offer their condolences to the family, requesting that they begin their visits from Tuesday onwards. This request is to allow the family sufficient time to make the necessary preparations to receive visitors.
“We welcome people coming to show their love and condolences, but I will plead with them to start it tomorrow because it happened less than 24 hours ago and we need to do some logistical work like putting up some canopies and all that so let them give us free time today, and then they can start coming tomorrow.”
He believes that it would be in the best interest of the political party for discussions to take place with both individuals, especially considering the allegations made by Kennedy Agyapong against Chairman Wontumi, who is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party and a flagbearer aspirant.
“It will be imperative that party elders sit Kenedy Agyapong and Wontumi down and settle whatever issues they have. They can’t be seen washing their dirty linen in public. Kennedy Agyapong should understand his standing in society now and should water down some utterances.
“Kennedy is a man of his own because he is self-made, but no one can change him. He should understand where he is now and the kind of comments he makes. They should not sit down and bring peace. I’ve seen a publication that suggests Wontumi will hit back at Ken and that will give us out to the NDC. We should not sit and watch for this to happen.
Kennedy and Wontumi are both firebrands, so if we want the party to enjoy some peace and break the eight, Ken and Wontumi must be called and spoken to,” he said on UTV.
Background
Kennedy Agyapong has charged the New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman with being responsible for the NPP’s demise.
He claims that Wontumi is slowly destroying the NPP by intimidating the party’s executives and members who disagree with him.
Stephen Ntim, the national chair of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has highlighted the importance of collaboration between Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress(APC) and NPP.
Acording ti him, collaborative endeavors could strengthen the enduring presence of both parties in government for the years ahead.
Mr Ntim stressed that there are valuable lessons the NPP can glean from Mr. Ganduje and the APC.
During his visit to Abdullahi Ganduje, the national chair of APC, Mr Ntim expressed his delight and pride in sharing in the momentous occasion of Mr. Ganduje’s recent appointment and also celebrated Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary.
“As a party, we have a lot to learn from Ganduje as an individual and from the APC as a political party,” stated Mr. Ntim, acknowledging the wealth of experience and insights that the APC brings to the table,” he remarked.
Ntim’s visit aimed to initiate a path of cooperation between the APC and NPP, with a shared focus on establishing good governance for the betterment of their respective citizens.
He underscored the significant and enduring relationship between Nigeria and Ghana, highlighting that since 2017, Ghanaian presidents have visited Nigeria an impressive 45 times.
Presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has accused the party and the current government of robbing Ghanaians by stealing money from the state coffers.
The Assin Central Member of Parliament levelled the strong allegation against the government in a viral video circulating on social media. It is believed that he was addressing some individuals ahead of the NPP Primaries slated for November 4.
According to Mr Kennedy Agyapong, the rate at which the government is allegedly stealing the country’s resources and squandering them abroad is of concern.
“The NPP is looting this country like there is no tomorrow. You steal the money and go spend it abroad. Why do you mean?” he quizzed angrily.
He noted that such activities have inured to the benefit of the culprits and left the Ghanaian youth jobless with no way of earning a living.
“The youth of this country are not working. And now you are intimidating people,” he said, adding that “I’ll put my life on the line (and be president).”
Kennedy Agyapong has made explicit allegations of corruption within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He asserts that the scale of embezzlement is highly alarming, suggesting that the misappropriated funds are being concealed overseas.
“The way the NPP is looting this country, you will think there is no tomorrow.
You steal all this money and stash it abroad; what do you mean?” he is heard stating in a video clip that has been shared widely on social media.
“The youth of this country are not working yet, and you are intimidating people. I will put my life on the line and defend them,” he stressed.
According to GhanaWeb’s investigation, he made these remarks during his campaign trip in the United States leading up to the NPP’s flagbearership contest on November 4.
Agyapong, who is a Member of Parliament and an aspirant for the NPP’s flagbearer position, has been vocal about his concerns regarding the party’s direction.
He has claimed that the NPP is on a path of self-destruction, with individuals in power exerting undue influence. Additionally, he has alleged that certain regional chairmen have turned the National Council, the party’s largest decision-making body, into a renegade entity.
“Alan is being insulted on Wontumi’s station. Wontumi is just a small boy; he is a small boy. It is sad that Wontumi and five chairmen—from the northern region, Volta Region—have turned the National Council into a hooliganism group,” he added.
Agyapong will contest for the flagbearership slot of the NPP along with three other contenders, including Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The campaign team supporting Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana, has refuted intimidation allegations made by Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong.
During a health walk organized by his supporters in Kumasi, Kennedy Agyapong, conveyed to his followers and fellow members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that he believes the actions of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Bernard Antwi Boasiako are having a detrimental impact on the NPP.
He expressed concern that their tendency to issue threats to those who do not support their cause is currently eroding the once-respected political reputation of the NPP.
“Wontumi and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia are the ones destroying this political party, but we will not allow that. They are threatening everyone who is not in their camp, and that is worrying. I am not the one destroying the NPP. For me, what I see is what I say, and that ends it,” he said.
“I have all the meetings they have attended, and when they try anything, there will be an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth,” he said.
But in a statement released by the Vice President’s campaign office, it was emphasized that Dr. Bawumia has consistently advocated for peace and unity within the party, regardless of internal contests.
“It is also not true as alleged by Kennedy Agyapong that Dr. Bawumia is collapsing the party through intimidation. The unity of our party has been of great concern to candidate Dr. Bawumia.
“It is in light of such concern that he refrains from responding to unwarranted attacks by others in the contest and has cautioned his supporters against responding to such provocative attacks.
“His strategy has been to persuade delegates to support his bid. This he does, by laying his vision for the party and country,” the statement dated September 30 said.
Member of Parliament for Suame, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has acknowledged that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will require more than just its dedicated supporters to secure victory in the upcoming election.
In an interview on Oyerepa TV in Kumasi on September 27, the Majority Leader made this know when he expressed regret over the recent resignation of former trade minister Alan Kyerematen, which occurred two days prior.
He believed that Alan’s departure was premature and that had he remained, it could have potentially garnered greater support for his presidential aspirations.
“So, in my view, if Alan had exercised some more patience, time would have conspired to reposition him, that’s why I consider his resignation very unfortunate and maybe he did not think of the repercussions properly,” he submitted.
“NPP alone with all our numbers cannot cross the Red Sea, we still need floating voters, and so if someone goes and returns, like a prodigal son, he has to be accepted, so on that, I have no premonitions,” he added.
Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, is set to compete for the NPP’s flagbearer position. He will be joined by three other contenders, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The NPP has scheduled November 4, 2023, as the date for selecting a new leader for the party, who will succeed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, widely known as JFK, has expressed his deep disappointment upon learning about the resignation of prominent NPP member Alan Kyeremateng.
JFK revealed that the news of Alan’s resignation was heartbreaking for him. He mentioned that if Alan had informed the party about his decision to resign before making it public, he would have attempted to intervene.
Alan Kyerematen, a founding member of the NPP and a flagbearer aspirant, announced his resignation from the party earlier in the week, citing “unfair treatment” in the party’s presidential candidate race.
During an interview on Otec FM’s political talk show, “Dwabrem,” hosted by Prince Nii Ade (Dr. Cash), Mr. Kodua emphasized that Mr. Kyerematen had been a stalwart of the party and had played a significant role for many members, including himself.
“Cash, the man (Alan) has been a key player in our party and no one can dispute that. Honestly, he was one of the key ministers who held and supported me in the quest for the General Secretary position and it is not only me he has helped but a lot”. “So for such a person to resign from the party should tell you we have lost a great personality,” he said.
JFK clarified that the press conference held by the party was not intended to retaliate against Alan Kyerematen’s earlier press conference.
Instead, it aimed to provide clarification on certain allegations made against the party by the former member.
Economist and political analyst, Dr. Theo Acheampong, has expressed doubts about the likelihood of former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, reversing his decision to rejoin the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Dr. Acheampong believes that if Mr. Kyerematen were to return to the NPP, it could significantly harm his credibility.
He clarified that Mr. Kyerematen’s decision to resign from the party was not rooted in issues of trust or credibility among potential voters.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile program on a Saturday, Dr. Acheampong questioned Mr. Kyerematen’s motivations for remaining with the party and in government during a period of economic underperformance, only to later break away from the NPP to establish his own movement.
“If he had won the nomination to lead the NPP, would he have broken away to form a new party,” he quizzes.
Dr. Acheampong stressed that there are concerns about the timing of Mr. Kyerematen’s decision and whether it truly reflects his intent to bring about positive changes for the country.
“The message is not the issue, what he wants to do, economy restructuring – at least everyone of the parties in Ghana has spoken about similar things in the past so it comes down to whether or not he would be able to win the election.
“At the moment, if you look at the history, the trends, and even the people he’s trying to target – the youth and the middle-class group, I doubt that he would be able to push and win the election,” he said.
These remarks were made in reaction to comments from the Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, who holds the view that it would be a rational step for the NPP to initiate discussions with Mr. Kyerematen to consider the prospect of his return to the party.
Nana Akomea speaking on the show said “I hope that we keep talking to him, point out to him that this your course of action will not benefit you, it is not going to benefit the NPP, we are better off together.”
One of the rationales offered by the former Trade and Industry Minister for his resignation was his suspicion that the party had shown preferential treatment to a specific candidate during the NPP’s Super Delegates Conference.
Nevertheless, Nana Akomea contended that this justification lacked merit, particularly in light of the extensive participation of party members in the nomination process.
The National Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Stephen Ntim, has issued a resolute call to all regional chairmen within the NPP, urging them to maintain unwavering focus on the objective of securing a resounding victory for the party in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
This call came following an impromptu gathering with all regional chairmen on Thursday, September 28, which took place at the party’s headquarters in Accra. The purpose of this meeting was to deliberate on recent developments within the party and chart a strategic course of action for the future.
Stephen Ntim underscored that central to their discussions were critical matters such as the departure of former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, and the apparent challenges regarding unity within the NPP.
In a Facebook post, the National Chairman of the NPP urged his fellow chairmen to redouble their efforts and maintain unity, thereby facilitating an effortless triumph for the NPP.
In his post, he stated “earlier today, Thursday, September 28, 2023, I held an emergency meeting with NPP Regional Chairmen at the party’s headquarters in Asylum Down, Accra. The meeting discussed inter alia recent happenings in the party, and the way forward. I used the occasion to admonish them to keep focus and work hard to win their respective regions for the party in 2024, I have their utmost assurance and commitment to duty. Together, we can!”.
Stephen Ntim further stated that he had received assurances from all regional chairmen that they would collaborate harmoniously and strive for unity at all levels of the party to ensure a cohesive NPP.
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).
This request follows the NDC’s expression of numerous concerns regarding the use of the new Constitutional Instrument (CI) by the Electoral Commission (EC) during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.
During a roundtable discussion organized by a coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Accra, the Director of Elections for the NPP, Evans Nimako, expressed the opinion that the NDC’s return to IPAC would provide the most effective avenue for addressing their concerns.
“If you look at the current CI, the 91, it says that the EC must conduct continuous registration and it says also that there must be a modality committee and that committee has been formed at IPAC. We expected NDC to be part, to be around so that we can all discuss issues that will take on board the interests of all stakeholders,” Nimako said.
“And this they have reneged. And so we will rather continue to call on them to come back to IPAC for all parties to discuss,” he added.
The NDC has boycotted IPAC meetings since 2020, citing concerns about the EC’s neutrality and independence.
Independent presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen, has asserted that there are prominent figures within the administration led by President Akufo-Addo who wield more influence than government ministers.
Mr Kyerematen, who recently distanced himself from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), went on to emphasize that the current dynamics in both the government and the party depart from the typical practices of the NPP.
During an interview with Accra-based Citi TV, one of the founding members of the NPP raised questions about the roles played by these “behind-the-scenes” individuals during the party’s establishment.
“Are you not aware or have you not heard there are people behind the curtain who have more influence in governance now than even ministers?… You have not heard about people behind the curtain who have significant influence and control in the party?” he said on September 27,” he said.
“When we started in 1992, where were they, the so-called behind-the-curtain people,” he quizzed.
On the other hand, Alan Kyerematen has refuted allegations that he presented a facade of unity to the NPP chairman, Stephen Ntim, during his final days with the party.
In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, the former NPP flagbearer aspirant clarified that he had engaged in conversations with Mr. Ntim on various occasions. During these discussions, he pointed out numerous shortcomings within the party. Despite receiving acknowledgment from the party chairman, his concerns remained unaddressed.
As a result, Mr. Kyerematen not only finds the chairman’s assertion that he had no grievances with the party to be untrue but also considers it “disingenuous and very unfortunate.”
“He’s a very good friend of mine. You are the chairman of a party. You come to me to ask whether I have any challenges with what is going on. I scope for you all the things I believe have been going wrong. I’ve had personal conversations with him before and he’s aware of that.”
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has voiced his concerns about what he perceives as entrenched factionalism within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
During an interview with Accra-based TV3, Mr. Kufuor, who led the nation from 2000 to 2008, pointed out that he has observed significant differences in the NPP compared to its earlier state.
He stressed the necessity for the NPP to conduct a thorough evaluation of its activities as it progresses. Mr. Kufuor emphasized the significance of a robust commitment within the party, akin to a kind of dedication similar to a religious belief.
The former president noted that the strong commitment he once sensed within the party appears to have diminished. He underscored the importance of upholding true democratic principles, with an emphasis on inclusivity rather than factionalism.
Mr. Kufuor highlighted that giving prominence to factions within the party, be it at the constituency or national level, results in division and obstructs cooperation.
“The way I feel it, I don’t sense the same strong commitment. I have likened commitment to almost a religion. I don’t sense that now. We are talking proper democracy, an inclusive one, you wouldn’t emphasise factions.”
“Once the practice of selecting constituency or [a] national, you wouldn’t be so divisive and emphasising faction. He belongs to that side so no cooperation. You do that you are dividing the force,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the former General Secretary of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, has urged party members to maintain their focus despite the recent departure of a prominent member and former presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen.
Mr. Boadu acknowledged his divergence from Mr. Kyerematen’s stated reasons but emphasized the need to accept and respect his decision.
During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News, Mr. Boadu underscored the significance of unity and staying on course within the party.
He recognized that differences in opinions might arise, but he stressed that the party should stay resolute and united in pursuing its objectives, regardless of individual departures.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have distanced themselves from allegations made by the Electoral Commission (EC) suggesting that political parties are encouraging minors and foreigners to participate in the limited voter registration exercise.
During a press conference held on Thursday, the EC expressed concerns about the involvement of minors and foreigners in the registration process, noting that some members of political parties appeared to be facilitating this through the guarantor system.
Dr. Bossman Asare, a Deputy Chairperson of the EC, emphasized their commitment to establishing a credible voter register. He pointed out that including the names of unqualified individuals could compromise the integrity of the register.
However, on the Newsnight program on Joy FM, Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, countered these allegations. He revealed that many individuals had faced challenges during registration due to suspicions raised by political party agents. These agents were actively challenging registrants to provide documentation to verify their age, part of a concerted effort to ensure that only eligible voters were registered.
“I think that is an alarmist assessment of the issues…You don’t go accusing political parties when your own officials are the ones administering the process. You have seen NPP people challenging NDC people they suspect and NDC people challenging them. So how do you come out to accuse political parties when the system is running naturally?” he quizzed.
“NDC dissociate itself from that accusation. We are not bussed minors. We have no involvement in bussing minors. We believe that the procedure, when you walk to the registration centre, you will be taken through a process and that process is by law enough to be able to detect,” Mr Gbande said.
The Deputy General Secretary of the NDC expressed his disappointment in the Electoral Commission’s decision to exploit the issue as an opportunity to criticize the guarantor system, which allows individuals to vouch for eligible voters who do not possess Ghana Cards, and their attempts to determine people’s ages based on photographs.
He emphasized that this very system is utilized by the National Identification Authority to grant Ghana Cards to a significant number of Ghanaian citizens.
On the other hand, Haruna Mohammed, a Deputy General Secretary of the NPP, not only refuted the allegations but also asserted that the NDC was actually supportive of the registration of minors. He pointed to instances where NDC agents were reportedly advocating for the registration of a 14-year-old as evidence of their endorsement of such practices.
“As a political party we (NPP) are law-abiding we have stated this fact; we are not going to accept the issue of registration of minors. This is clearly stated in Ghana’s constitution that if you don’t attain the age of 18 you should not be registered and we are going to support this particular process”
“I am happy that the electoral commission is talking about a number of people being challenged I hope that these minors will be the chunk of that,” Mr Mohammed added.
Additionally, he voiced his support for the Electoral Commission’s call to discontinue the guarantor system, citing it as one of the factors contributing to the sluggishness of the registration process and other associated challenges.
Mr. Mohammed argued that implementing a more robust system, which exclusively relies on Ghana Cards, would be beneficial in guaranteeing the establishment of a pristine voter register.
Former presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has rejected the tag “Aduru wo su” used to label his campaign during his days with the ruling party.
Since the 1990s, Mr Kyerematen has failed in all his attempts to be elected the NPP flagbearer. In most cases, he lost to now-President Akufo-Addo.
Owing to his consistency, the motto “Aduru wo su” to wit, “It is your turn” emerged as he once against fought for the flagbearership race ahead of the 2024 general elections.
According to Mr Kyerematen, such a label is unbefitting of him, as he has proven himself capable of leading the country. He noted that such a tag places him in the position of an entitled individual.
“I disagree with my own team. They kept on making some of these statements. This “eduru wo so” thing, I told them you are underselling me by making it seem as if Alan is just sitting there and he feels entitled and so.. No I kept on telling them.
That is not the kind of label befitting somebody who has worked to deserve to lead the party. So I disagreed with them on the “eduru wo so” label,” he said in an interview on CitiTV.
Meanwhile, the leader of the Movement for Change has shot down claims that his exit from the ruling party will affect his fan base.
He noted that the abysmal performance at the NPP’s Super Delegates Conference does not reflect his actual support from the ruling party.
“I also disagreed with them on their own understanding that the super delegates conference already predicts where their allegiance will be and that if it gets to 200,000. I said the value will be the same. It is not going to change because the delegates who put them there.
“I told the team my strength lies with the rank and file of the party. When we talk about the rank and file of the party, it is not the 200,000 people. Over 6.5 million people voted for NPP in our elections. They are the strength of the party, not the delegates,” he added.
Vice President Dr 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 elections, Mr Kyerematen on September 5, withdrew from the race citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has named four persons who had the endorsement of former President John Agyekum Kufuor to lead the party in the 2007 flagbearership race.
The former Trade Minister and a presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in an interview with Bernard Avle, the General Manager of Citi News, said that President Kufuor explicitly stated his inability to exclusively support Alan’s flagbearership bid while listing individuals he thought were viable candidates.
Mr Kyerematen said that he was one of the four persons who had the blessing of Mr Kufuor, along with Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who eventually won the contest and became the president of Ghana in 2016, Aliu Mahama, who was the vice president under Mr Kufuor, and Papa Owusu Ankomah, who was a former Minister of Education and Attorney General.
The revelation came as Alan reflected on the political landscape in 2005 when, according to him, clandestine manoeuvres were already in play among party members eyeing the flagbearership position.
“When I went to him to inform him that I have an interest and that my other colleagues have started moves undercover, if he sees that I’m also operating, he should not be surprised about that. His advice to me was, ‘Wait, do your work. If people feel that you are the right person, they themselves would promote you,’” Alan recounted.
However, Alan revisited President Kufuor three months later, expressing his intent to enter the public campaign arena. President Kufuor’s response was unequivocal: “Well, I cannot stop you, but I want to tell you that I will not support you. If there are any people that I will support, there are four people: Nana Akufo-Addo – he was the first person he mentioned, Aliu Mahama, Papa Owusu Ankomah, and then yourself. Any of you, if you win, bless my soul. I’ll be happy.”
He also dismissed the claim that Mr Kufuor was working against any of the candidates or favouring him over others. He said that it was unfair to Mr Kufuor for people to create such an impression, because he did not interfere in the internal affairs of the party or influence the outcome of the election.
“I may not be able to speak for him, but it may not necessarily be untrue. However, it is unfair to President Kufuor for people to have, or are now creating, the impression that because I was a favourite, he did all in his power to, as it were, install me as an heir apparent. It is totally untrue that he was working against any of these candidates,” he noted.
Mr Kyerematen contested for the NPP flagbearership three times: in 2007, 2012 and 2016. He lost to Nana Akufo-Addo on all occasions.
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.
He made this plea during an anti-corruption forum organized by Togbe Afede, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State.
During the forum, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed his deep concern for the nation and stressed the urgent need for influential personalities, including former President Kufuor, the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the National Chief Imam, and Archbishops, to raise their voices in the ongoing discourse on governance.
He firmly believes that the country is currently facing imminent danger, and he pointed out the failure of certain leaders to speak out, which, in his view, is pushing the nation towards a catastrophe.
Addressing former President Kufuor directly, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe urged him to break his silence on the state of affairs, stating, “I would like also to bring to the attention of former President Kufuor that it is time to talk, he has been too silent and because he is refusing to talk it is leading this country into a disaster.”
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe firmly conveyed his belief that the current state of affairs in the country reflects President Akufo-Addo’s ineffective management of national affairs.
He specifically highlighted concerns regarding the actions of the Electoral Commission and cautioned about potential consequences if these issues are not addressed.
“This country is facing danger if you just take a careful look at what the Electoral Commission is doing – the signals are there,” he cautioned.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe’s heartfelt plea emphasizes the immediate need to tackle governance challenges and underscores the significance of influential figures using their voices to advocate for the nation’s welfare.
He emphasised that Alan’s decision to leave the party after many years should prompt soul-searching within the party rather than being a cause for celebration among some party members.
Agyarko also noted that while Alan’s resignation is public knowledge, there may be others within the party who have mentally resigned and are only waiting for the elections to officially abandon the party.
“At least my brother Kyerematen has put his thoughts and feelings on paper for all to appreciate. How about the many who harbour similar and maybe more petulant sentiments in their hearts but are not openly expressing same?
“There are many in our party today who, out of dismay, resigned in their hearts and are only waiting to walk away from us at the ballot box,” he said in a statement.
Furthermore, the former campaign manager for President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of party executives in reconciling differences and comforting disheartened members at all tiers of the party.
Alan Kyerematen’s choice to contest the 2024presidential elections as an independent candidate stemmed from his belief that the NPP had experienced substantial transformations, straying from its traditional identity.
B.J. Da Rocha was a prominent lawyer, politician, and founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana.
He was born on May 16, 1927 in Cape Coast, where he attended Adisadel College for his secondary education. He later studied law at the University of London and was called to the bar in England and Wales in 1955.
He returned to Ghana and became the first Ghanaian director of the Ghana School of Law in 1958. He lectured at the school for almost two decades before retiring in 1992 as the first Ghanaian director of legal education. He also served as the general secretary of the Progress Party, led by Kofi Abrefa Busia, who became the prime minister of Ghana from 1969 to 1972.
He was also one of the founding members and the first national chairman of the NPP, which was formed in 1992 as a successor to the Progress Party and other pro-democracy movements that opposed military rule in Ghana. He played a key role in shaping the party’s ideology, vision, and policies.
He was known for his outspokenness, integrity, and dedication to the party and the nation.
He died on February 23, 2010, at the age of 82, after a long illness. He was honored by the Ghana Bar Association for his contribution to the legal profession in 1993.
In 2012, a book titled “B.J. Da Rocha: A Life of Integrity” was launched by President John Atta Mills to commemorate his life and legacy. In 2017, Mountcrest University College in Ghana instituted a lecture and a chair in law and politics in his memory and honor.
He became relevant following conversations around Alan Kyerematen and him back in 2005. Alan Kyerematen was one of the presidential aspirants of the NPP who contested against Nana Akufo-Addo, who eventually won the party’s nomination.
In 2008, B.J. Da Rocha wrote a letter criticizing his choice of Hajia Alima Mahama as his running mate and accusing him of being influenced by tribalism and nepotism.
He also described Alan Kyerematen as a “disruptive factor” who should be expelled from the party for resigning after losing the primaries.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has compared 2024 presidential candidate Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen to a butterfly.
Wontumi asserts that Alan was once opposed to Akufo-Addo becoming president at the age of 70, yet today, he himself has attained the same age and is seeking to become president.
“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.
Wontumi scolded Alan Kyerematen 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.”
Chairman Wontumi, in response to Alan Kyerematen’s resignation, has also issued a memorandum for the removal of all NPP photos and billboards featuring Alan from their party office and associated locations.
A member of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) communication team, Kwadwo Danquah, has asserted that Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong will part ways with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) following the party’s presidential primaries.
According to Mr Kwadwo Danquah, he expects Mr Agaypong to follow the footsteps of former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen owing to the alleged maltreatment meted out to them by the leadership of the ruling party.
The Eastern Regional Communications Office made the prediction during an interview on Power FM on September 26, 2023.
“When they go to their office, they go for Kan Dapaah’s boys to come and beat them and destroy their cars. That is what they did to Alan and for that, he has resigned from the party. That thing Akufo-Addo is doing may cause the downfall of the NPP. Mark my words today, Ken Agyapong will also go independent. He will resign and go independent.”
“I am the Eastern Regional Communications Officer; I am saying it on your platform. Today is 26th September 2023, I’m saying after they conclude the November primaries, Kennedy Agyapong will go independent.”
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen first resigned from the party in 2008 following alleged attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries.
Reacting to his resignation, the NPP has expressed disappointment over Mr Kyerematen’s inability to inform its leadership of his decision before going public.
In response, Mr Kyerematen said he found no reason to, as he is able to decide for himself.
Mr Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP following its establishment in 1992.
He was part of a group of young dynamic Business Executives and Professionals came together to establish the Young Executives Forum (YEF) that became the financial backbone of the Party and provided significant financial resources to support the Party in all its endeavours, including the seed fund for the purchase of the Party’s first national headquarters building.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has refuted claims that he had always planned to abandon the New Patriotic Party over unresolved issues.
Such claims have arisen following Mr Kyerematen’s second departure from the ruling party. On September 25, Mr Kyerematen announced his exit from the party owing to a number of reasons including a change in the party’s virtues and challenges with its electoral process.
But in an interview on TV3, Mr Kyerematen noted that it was his initial desire to utilize the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the platform through which he could promote and execute his vision for the nation if elected president.
However, due to the challenges he encountered within the party, he ultimately decided to part ways.
“I have been very staged about how I have positioned myself over the years,” he told Berla Mundi on the New Day show on Wednesday, September 27.
“I would have wished to use the party, but for various reasons, I have decided that I will go directly to the people of Ghana,” he added.
When he announced his second resignation from the NPP, Mr Kyerematen said that he had come to the realisation that his contributions were no longer needed in the party.
He said this followed the harsh treatment meted out to his supporters by the party.
“Persons associated with me are treated with disdain and outright outcast.”
He accused the leadership of the NPP of skewing the internal elections in favour of one particular aspirant.
In 2008, Mr Kyerematen resigned from the party owing to challenges with the 2007 presidential primaries were he lost to now President Akufo-Addo.
Former Trade Minister and Independent candidate, Alan Kyerematen, has recounted series of events pertaining to how he had to confront a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), late BJ da Rocha, regarding his approach to resolving tensions at that time.
According to Alan, BJ da Rocha requested to meet him in Accra while he was en route to Kumasi. He proposed that they meet to discuss and investigate a letter of resignation he had submitted.
The former member of the NPP said he provided him with a detailed account of the events that led to his resignation at the time.
However, upon his arrival in Kumasi, he was surprised to discover that da Rocha had already granted an interview where he accused him of being a “disruptive factor a stumbling block, and a loose canon if accepted back into the fold of the NPP.”
“When I had the opportunity, I confronted him frontally and asked him if he was serious at all because I felt as an elderly person, he should have known better. I told him he acted in bad faith. Later on, he called consistently to apologise before his death,” the former trade minister stated.
The presidential aspirant who placed third during the party’s Super Delegates Congress will contest the 2024 election as an independent presidential candidate.
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.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has clarified that his resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was not carried out secretly.
He made this statement during an appearance on the New Day show with Berla Mundi on TV3, addressing criticisms of his departure being described as “clandestine.”
In response to the NPP’s expressed disappointment regarding the way he resigned from the party, Kyerematen explained that he had informed the national chair of his intention to resign.
The NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, had stated that Kyerematen’s decision seemed “premeditated” due to his announcement without prior notice to the party.
Before Kyerematen’s resignation on September 25, the National Chairman of the party, Stephen Ayesu Ntim, had a significant meeting with him, during which Kyerematen reportedly affirmed his dedication to the party. As a result, the public announcement of his decision was seen as a betrayal by some party members.
Kodua Frimpong urged NPP supporters to stand firm and demonstrate determination as they approach the 2024 elections, emphasizing the importance of unity and reaffirming their commitment to the party.
In addition to leaving the party, Kyerematen also declared his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.
A former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Boakye Agyarko, has emphasized that Alan Kyerematen’s resignation from the party should prompt a period of reflection rather than exuding overconfidence.
In a statement, the former Energy Minister urged fellow party members to take Kyerematen’s departure as a crucial signal for introspection, recognizing that similar events in the party’s history have typically resulted in negative consequences, affecting electoral prospects.
Agyarko highlighted the importance of acknowledging individuals with similar sentiments who might not express them openly. He stressed that many within the party may harbor discontent but have yet to voice it, and it’s essential to address their concerns.
“The unfortunate departure of Alan Kyerematen from our ranks must serve a necessary and sufficient notice to us all and lead us to a time of deep introspection rather than a time for gloating or the display of triumphalist arrogance,” the former Energy Minister said in a statement.
He advocated for a time of healing and understanding within the party, aiming to mend any discord and soothe wounded feelings.
Agyarko emphasized the need to evaluate the party’s alignment with its foundational principles and values, urging a collective effort to return to the true essence of the UP tradition.
“At least, my brother Kyerematen has put his thoughts and feelings on paper for all to appreciate. How about the many who habour similar and maybe more petulant sentiments in their hearts but are not openly expressing same. There are many in our party today who have, out of dismay, resigned in their hearts and are only waiting to walk away from us at the ballot box.”
“Now is the time to smoothen ruffled feathers and assuage wounded sentiments across the length and breadth of our party. Now is the time to examine ourselves if indeed we are true and faithful to the tenets and values of the UP tradition or we have metamorphosed into an ugly shadow of what we should be. These must become the urgent task ahead of us,” he stated.
He emphasized that this introspection should be an urgent priority for the party.
Former presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party, Alan Kyerematen has noted that he gave an amount of GHS500,000 to the party to ensure the creation of a genuine voter album ahead of the NPP primaries.
However, the money given, he said, was not used for the intended purpose as the voter album lacked credibility.
He made this revelation during an interview on UTV following his resignation from the ruling party.
“When we started this election, 10 people aspired for the flagbearership position, I said when this election is not fair, there will be issues. It is fair, no one would have any issues. So to ensure fairness, ensure that the album to be used for election is genuine and has no challenge. I paid half a million Ghana Cedis, GHS500,000 which could have been used to support someone’s business. I gave it to the party to ensure the album has no issues,” he said.
According to him, he realised at a point that the party was not seeking to provide a genuine album, hence drew the attention of the party’s chairman. However, none of his concerns were addressed.
“All the measures brought by the party, I realized that they don’t want to have a genuine album. I wrote a letter to the Chairman noting this there will be problems. I went to his house to inform him. Chairman assured me that the challenges would be resolved. They never said anything up till date. The credibility of the voter album was in doubt.”
Due to some of these challenges, Mr Kyerematen has parted ways with the NPP and seeks to contest for the highest position in the land as an independent candidate.
