In a surprise move, Alan Kyerematen, a former Trade Minister and one of the leading contenders for the flagbearership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially announced his resignation from the party to form a new independent political party. This decision comes as a shock to many, especially given the fact that the NPP is gearing up for the 2024 presidential election.
According to sources close to Alan Kyerematen, he has been dissatisfied with the way the party has treated him and his supporters. Specifically, he has expressed frustration with the process that led to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's convincing victory in the Super Delegates Conference. It is worth noting that Alan Kyerematen was one of the front-runners for the NPP's flagbearership alongside Dr. Bawumia and President Akufo-Addo.
In a statement released to the press, Alan Kyerematen stated that "the NPP does not appreciate my efforts for the party." He went on to say that "I have always been a loyal member of the party, and I have worked tirelessly to ensure its success. However, it has become clear to me that my contributions have not been valued or recognized."
The reasons behind Alan Kyerematen's resignation are complex and multifaceted. One of the main factors is believed to be the perceived bias within the party's hierarchy, particularly in the selection of candidates for the 2024 presidential election. Many of Alan Kyerematen's supporters feel that he was unfairly excluded from the race, despite his strong track record and popularity within the party.
Another factor contributing to Alan Kyerematen's resignation is the lack of internal democracy within the NPP. He has reportedly been frustrated by the party's top-down approach, which he believes stifles the voices of grassroots members and prevents meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
Now that Alan Kyerematen has resigned from the NPP, he plans to form a new independent political party and contest in the 2024 presidential election as an independent candidate. This move is seen as a bold and risky one, as independent candidates rarely succeed in Ghanaian politics. However, Alan Kyerematen has a strong base of support within the party and could potentially attract disillusioned NPP members who share his vision for the country.
It remains to be seen how this development will impact the NPP's chances in the 2024 election. Some analysts believe that Alan Kyerematen's departure could weaken the party's prospects, while others argue that it could actually strengthen the party by forcing it to address its internal issues and become more inclusive.
Regardless of the outcome, Alan Kyerematen's resignation marks a significant turning point in Ghanaian politics. His decision to form a new independent party and contest in the 2024 election as an independent candidate sends a powerful message about the need for greater internal democracy and accountability within the country's political parties.