In a surprising turn of events, the immediate past Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, is poised to make his second exit from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). This decision comes as a response to his disappointing performance in the NPP Super Delegates Conference, where he placed third among the contenders for the party’s flagbearership. In this article, we will delve into the political journey of Alan Kyerematen, his past resignations from the NPP, and his bold move to contest the 2024 Presidential election as an independent candidate.
A Career in Politics
Alan Kyerematen is no stranger to Ghanaian politics. With a career spanning several years, he has been a prominent figure in the political landscape of the country. His journey in politics began under the government of John Agyekum Kufuor, where he served as the Minister of Trade. His remarkable performance in this role earned him recognition and laid the foundation for his future political endeavors.
The Recent Setback
However, recent events have cast a shadow on his political aspirations. Last month’s NPP Super Delegates Conference was a pivotal moment for Kyerematen. The contest, initially featuring ten candidates, narrowed down to five. Kyerematen, to his dismay, finished in third place, behind Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong. This unexpected outcome prompted him to withdraw from the race, citing intimidation of his supporters and unfair treatment in the North East Region.
The Second Resignation
Sources close to Kyerematen have revealed that he is gearing up for a second resignation from the NPP. A scheduled press conference on September 25 is expected to be the platform where he announces this decision. What motivates his departure is a desire to contest the 2024 Presidential election as an independent candidate. This move is seen as a response to what he perceives as humiliation by the NPP during the Special Delegates Conference.
A Retributive Gesture
One source familiar with Kyerematen’s thinking stated, “I can confirm to you that Chief Alan is all set to announce his resignation from the NPP and go independent. Unless there is a last-minute change of mind, he will resign from the party and go independent.” The source continued, “What happened in the Special Delegates Conference last month was really not good. The way the party voted was disappointing. It was really humiliating that considering all he has done and his stature in the party, he was third behind Kennedy Agyapong. Since he is not valued, he will resign and go independent and pay back the party.”
Opposition from Within
However, it’s worth noting that not everyone within Kyerematen’s circle supports his decision to go independent. Some of his allies across the country have expressed their disagreement with his choice. A staunch supporter of Alan, MP for Mpraeso, Davies Opoku, stated that he would not support Kyerematen if he goes independent. This sentiment is echoed by a significant number of his regional coordinators, who have publicly declared their support for Vice President Bawumia.
History Repeats Itself
Interestingly, this is not the first time that Alan Kyerematen has considered leaving the NPP. In 2007, he resigned from the party for similar reasons but later rescinded his decision. Upon his return, he participated in the NPP presidential primaries in 2010 and 2014, as well as the current primaries.
The political journey of Alan Kyerematen is marked by both ambition and controversy. His decision to resign from the NPP for the second time and run as an independent candidate in the upcoming presidential election is a bold move that will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the political landscape of Ghana. As we await his official announcement, the question remains: Will history repeat itself, or will Kyerematen’s retribution be a game-changer in Ghanaian politics?
FAQs
1. Why is Alan Kyerematen resigning from the NPP?
Alan Kyerematen is resigning from the NPP due to his dissatisfaction with the party’s treatment of him during the NPP Super Delegates Conference and his desire to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 Presidential election.
2. How did Alan Kyerematen perform in the NPP Super Delegates Conference?
Alan Kyerematen finished in third place among the contenders for the NPP flagbearership in the Super Delegates Conference, which prompted his withdrawal from the race.
3. Has Alan Kyerematen resigned from the NPP before?
Yes, this will be the second time Alan Kyerematen considers resigning from the NPP. He previously resigned in 2007 but later returned to the party.
4. Who are some of the notable figures supporting Alan Kyerematen’s independent candidacy?
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong are among the notable figures who finished ahead of Alan Kyerematen in the NPP Super Delegates Conference.
5. What impact could Alan Kyerematen’s independent candidacy have on Ghanaian politics?
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent candidate could potentially shake up Ghanaian politics and introduce a new dynamic to the upcoming presidential election.