Alan Kyerematen, a well-known member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the former minister for trade and industry, has unexpectedly decided to run for office as an independent in the impending 2024 elections.
Given that Kyerematen has been a devoted supporter of the NPP for a long time, his choice has shocked the political establishment.
Political veteran Kyerematen is well known for his work with the NPP and his participation in numerous government offices.
However, at a press conference held in Accra on Monday, September 25, Mr Kyerematen noted that “it is abundantly clear to me, that my services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008.
“Under the circumstances and given the context provided, I wish to use this platform to announce that I am honourably resigning with immediate effect from the New Patriotic Party to contest for the high office of the President of the Republic of Ghana in the 2024 General Elections, as an Independent Presidential Candidate.”
Kyerematen emphasized his commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the country, including economic development, job creation, and social welfare. He stated that his decision to run as an independent candidate was driven by his belief that this approach would enable him to better serve the interests of the Ghanaian people.
His candidacy as an independent presents a unique challenge to the established political order in Ghana, with the potential to reshape the political landscape.
This is the second time Mr. Kyerematen has quit from the NPP.
Feeling bitter about the loss in the 2007 presidential primary and what he described subsequently as being sidelined, Alan, in 2008 resigned from the NPP in a similar move but was politically coerced and later rejoined the party.
Kyerematen’s decision to break away from the NPP again and contest the 2024 elections as an independent candidate marks a significant moment in Ghanaian politics.
