Ndoum likely to contest as independent candidate in 2012 elections

Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom

The 2008 presidential candidate of the Convention People's Party (CPP) Dr Paa Kwesi Ndoum has given the strongest hint yet that he will contest the 2012 elections as an independent candidate.

Earlier this month Dr Ndoum announced he had ceased campaigning as a presidential aspirant of the party, after a fallout with CPP chairperson Samia Nkrumah, who accused him of attempting to undermine her leadership.

He says he has since been inundated with calls by supporters and well wishers to form a movement that will pose a real alternative to the NDC and the NPP.

At a news conference in Accra on Saturday, head of Dr Ndoum's Communications team, Richmond Keelson, told Joy News' Araba Koomson that Dr Ndoum will contest the 2012 elections irrespective of whether he is chosen as CPP presidential candidate or not.

He said Dr. Nduom's personality outshines all the other candidates and will therefore be a key factor in his decision to contest the 2012 elections.

“The personality of the president matters a lot not necessarily the political party. Yes, the political party might be the vessel that the candidate might use but the moment elections are held, the very person that won the elections, you will see that all attention is shifted and focused on [him].”

He did not say whether the Dr. Nduom will leave if he fails to clinch the ticket of the party but he stated that “on the 7th December, 2012, Dr. Nduom's picture will boldly will be displayed on the ballot papers.”