Accra, Ghana – In a surprising turn of events, Alan Kyerematen, one of the prominent flagbearer hopefuls for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially withdrawn from the race. He made his decision public through a detailed statement posted on his official social media platforms.
In his statement issued on Sunday, August 27, 2023, Kyerematen addressed concerns regarding the selection and shortlisting of Presidential Aspirants by the Special Electoral College convened by the NPP on August 26, 2023. His decision to withdraw stems from what he believes were significant irregularities during the election process.
Kyerematen expressed his belief that the Special Delegates Conference was strategically and tactically skewed in favor of one particular aspirant. He pointed to pronouncements made by some leading members of the NPP both before and after the elections, which he felt lent weight to his observations.
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of Kyerematen’s statement was his assertion that there was an unprecedented level of intimidation, both direct and indirect, inflicted upon a substantial number of delegates at various voting centers across all sixteen regions. He also mentioned a disturbing incident where his polling agent in the North East region suffered severe eye damage while ensuring compliance with the election rules and regulations as approved by the Presidential Elections Committee. He condemned these acts of violence and collusion as appalling, unconscionable, and despicable.
Kyerematen emphasized his commitment to the safety of those working with and for him and his determination to fight for their interests. He raised the critical question of how the NPP had arrived at this point and expressed doubt that the circumstances he outlined would improve in the upcoming round of elections scheduled for September 6, 2023.
In light of these concerns, Alan Kyerematen confirmed his honorable withdrawal from the process leading to the Presidential Primaries scheduled for November 4, 2023. He indicated that, in the coming weeks, he would decide on his future political role in Ghana after consulting with his family, well-wishers, various stakeholders, and interest groups.
Kyerematen concluded his statement by wishing the other aspirants well on their journey and expressing profound gratitude to his family, the Alan 4 President (A4P) Campaign Team, and his supporters from Ghana and around the world. He reassured them that “the battle is still the Lord’s” and that those who wait upon the Lord shall have their strength renewed.
The withdrawal of Alan Kyerematen from the NPP flagbearer race marks a significant development in Ghanaian politics, leaving many to wonder about the implications for the upcoming presidential primaries and the political landscape in the nation.