The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing a major challenge ahead of the 2024 presidential election, as one of its prominent members, Alan Kyerematen, has announced his intention to run as an independent candidate. Kyerematen, who is a former trade minister and a three-time aspirant for the NPP flagbearer-ship, said he was disappointed by the party’s internal processes and accused some leaders of bias and manipulation.
His decision has sparked mixed reactions from the NPP and the public, with some expressing support and others warning of the negative consequences for the party. One of the NPP flagbearer hopefuls, Kennedy Agyapong, has cautioned that Kyerematen’s exit could pose a serious threat to the party’s chances of retaining power in 2024. He said that Kyerematen has a strong base of supporters across the country, especially in the Ashanti Region, which is considered the stronghold of the NPP.
“Anybody who tells you that Alan Kyerematen’s exit will not pose a challenge to the NPP, then the person is not a good politician,” Agyapong said in an interview with Starr FM on October 5, 2023. He added that Kyerematen’s personality and appeal could attract voters from other parties and regions, making him a formidable contender in the election.
Agyapong also said that Kyerematen’s departure could create divisions and conflicts within the NPP, as some members may defect to his camp or lose confidence in the party’s leadership. He urged the party to resolve its internal issues and ensure a fair and transparent process for selecting its flag bearer. He said he was ready to compete with any candidate, including Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who is widely seen as the frontrunner for the NPP nomination.
The NPP has scheduled November 4, 2023, to elect its presidential candidate for the 2024 election. The party will face a tough challenge from the main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which has already confirmed former President John Mahama as its flagbearer. Mahama lost to President Nana Akufo-Addo in the 2020 election by a narrow margin, but challenged the results in court, alleging fraud and irregularities.
The 2024 election is expected to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable in Ghana’s history, as both parties will seek to win over the electorate with their policies and programmes. The emergence of Kyerematen as an independent candidate could also alter the political landscape and dynamics, as he may appeal to voters who are dissatisfied with both parties or looking for a third option. However, some analysts have also questioned his viability and sustainability as an independent candidate, given the challenges of funding, organization and mobilization.
As Ghana prepares for another crucial election, it is hoped that all stakeholders will uphold the principles of democracy and peace, and respect to the will of the people.
Source [ GhanaWeb ]
