Alan Kyerematen's abrupt NPP flagbearership farewell: A self-imposed political retirement or strategic retreat?

In a seismic shift that has left the political landscape of Ghana in a state of flux, the long-anticipated reign of Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen has prematurely crumbled.

Poised to take the mantle of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Kyerematen has abruptly withdrawn from the upcoming flagbearer race, citing unprecedented levels of discrimination, favouritism and victimization.

This unexpected exit raises significant questions about his political future and the potential repercussions on the NPP.

The man once touted as the natural successor to President Akufo-Addo has been a stalwart presence in the party's flagbearer race since 2007.

However, amidst a series of perceived political missteps and internal party struggles, Mr Kyerematen has made the surprising decision to step back from the race.

This move, which has been interpreted by some as a self-imposed political retirement, has triggered widespread speculation about the potential impact on the party's fortunes in the upcoming elections.

Mr. Kyerematen's withdrawal was necessitated by a series of factors that may have dampened his chances of securing the flagbearer position:

1. The perceived over-reliance on President Akufo-Addo's 2007 "you will follow me promise".

2. His failure to resign from Akufo-Addo’s government after the first term and start his campaign ahead of the race.

3. His involvement in what many perceive as a failed government, in which he served as Trade Minister.

4. Underestimation of the emergence potential challengers, which later took him by storm after Vice President Bawumia declared his intention.

5. His alleged submission of a resignation letter after the 2007 flagbearer race.

6. His supposed poor relationship with party members.

His withdrawal from the race, according to many, could potentially lead to a repeat of the party's misfortune in the 2008 election.

This abrupt change of course has sent shockwaves through the party and the nation, and the full impact is yet to be felt.

In his withdrawal announcement, the 4-time flagbearer aspirant painted a bleak picture of the party's internal politics, citing intimidation, violence, and collusion.

He also questioned the party's trajectory, indicating a dangerous path to self-destruction.

His decision to withdraw from the upcoming Presidential Primaries scheduled for November 4, 2023, was, he said, in the best interest of his personal safety and the welfare of his team.

Now, as Mr. Kyerematen steps back, the focus shifts to the remaining frontrunners in the November 4 contest: Vice President Bawumia, who leads after the Super Delegates Conference, and Kennedy Agyapong, who came second.