Introduction
In a surprising turn of events, Alan Kyerematen, a prominent political figure in Ghana, has officially declared his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election. This announcement, which comes on the heels of his resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of Alan Kyerematen’s decision, its implications for the NPP, and the broader context of Ghanaian politics.
Alan Kyerematen’s Resignation and Independent Candidacy
On September 25, 2023, Alan Kyerematen submitted his resignation letter to the NPP, signaling his departure from the party he had been associated with for many years. The very same day, he addressed a press conference to make a groundbreaking announcement—he would be running as an independent candidate in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. To underscore his independence from the NPP, Kyerematen is launching a new movement called the “Movement for Change,” with a Monarch Butterfly as its symbol.
Impact on the NPP
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to go independent is undoubtedly a significant blow to the NPP. The party has held power since January 7, 2017, and was hoping to break the eight-year cycle of change that typically alternates between the NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). With Kyerematen’s departure and independent candidacy, the NPP faces internal divisions and a loss of a prominent figure who had been a key player in its ranks.
Speculations and Prior Events
Speculations regarding Alan Kyerematen’s resignation and independent presidential ambition had been swirling for some time. The rumors gained momentum after he withdrew from the NPP presidential race on September 5, 2023. It was believed by some that Kyerematen might have faced a tough challenge in the party’s internal election, given the rising popularity of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who were considered leading candidates.
In the August 2023 Special Delegates conference, Alan Kyerematen placed third, securing less than 100 votes out of over 900 cast. This outcome was unexpected for a candidate who had been in the race for more than 16 years. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a relatively new entrant into the race, managed to beat Kyerematen, adding to the speculation surrounding his political future.
A History of Political Ambitions
Alan Kyerematen’s political journey dates back to 2005 when he was considered as a potential replacement for then-President John Agyekum Kufuor, who was set to retire in 2009. In 2007, he contested alongside 16 other candidates in the NPP presidential primaries and came in second, losing to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is now the President of Ghana. Akufo-Addo has led the NPP since 2007 and has consistently defeated Kyerematen in subsequent party primaries.
With President Akufo-Addo retiring on January 6, 2025, the NPP was actively searching for a successor. Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as a strong contender, garnering substantial support within the party. He received a resounding endorsement of over 50 percent of the votes at the special delegates conference in August 2023.
Conclusion
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election has sent shockwaves through Ghana’s political landscape. His departure from the NPP, a party he has been associated with for years, could have significant implications for the party’s unity and electoral prospects. As Ghana gears up for the 2024 election, the country’s political future has become even more uncertain, with the emergence of Kyerematen as an independent contender adding a new dimension to the rac
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Alan Kyerematen choose to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election?
Alan Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent candidate stemmed from his perceived chances within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). After withdrawing from the NPP’s presidential race and facing stiff competition from other candidates, he opted to pursue an independent path to the presidency, believing it would offer him a better chance to contest the election.
2. How has Alan Kyerematen’s independent candidacy affected the NPP’s chances in the 2024 election?
Alan Kyerematen’s departure from the NPP and his decision to run independently have created divisions within the party and could potentially weaken its electoral prospects. It remains to be seen how the NPP will navigate these challenges and maintain party unity in the run-up to the election.
3. What is the significance of the “Movement for Change” that Alan Kyerematen is forming?
The “Movement for Change” is a political movement launched by Alan Kyerematen to symbolize his break from the NPP and his commitment to offering an alternative vision for Ghana. The Monarch Butterfly serves as the movement’s symbol, representing transformation and change in the country’s political landscape.
4. How has Alan Kyerematen performed in previous NPP presidential primaries?
Alan Kyerematen has been a consistent contender in NPP presidential primaries. He first ran in 2007 and came in second to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Akufo-Addo went on to lead the NPP and win the presidency. Kyerematen continued to contest in subsequent primaries but was unable to secure the party’s nomination.
5. Who are the other prominent candidates in the 2024 Ghanaian presidential election?
Apart from Alan Kyerematen, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong have emerged as prominent candidates in the 2024 presidential election. Vice President Bawumia received significant support within the NPP, while Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, despite being considered a “non-presidential” material, managed to secure a notable victory in the NPP’s internal elections.
