Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Senior Campaign Adviser to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has expressed disappointment over Alan Kyerematen’s exit from the party.
Kyerematen, the former Minister of Trade, departed the NPP following the internal contest for the presidential candidacy in 2023 and subsequently launched his Movement for Change, announcing his intention to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 elections.
In an interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, Mr. Agyepong described the split as painful, noting that it was unfortunate for the party, especially considering Kyerematen’s long-standing ties with the NPP.
Agyepong highlighted the loyalty shown by other presidential aspirants, such as Kennedy Agyapong, the MP for Assin Central, who are now campaigning for Dr. Bawumia’s success in the upcoming elections.
He contrasted this loyalty with Kyerematen’s departure, calling it “very sad” and suggesting that Kyerematen should have appreciated the roles and opportunities the party provided throughout his political career.
“I found it very sad; he had been given significant roles. Historically, I don’t think anyone has served as a minister in one portfolio for close to 12 years in this country, and he was also an ambassador to the US. When the party offers you such wonderful opportunities, I think you should return the compliments,” Agyepong stated.
The Senior Campaign Adviser acknowledged Kyerematen’s significant role in the electoral process and admitted that he might still attract some NPP votes.
However, Agyepong emphasized that the party’s main focus is on winning the elections, noting that it is too late to extend an olive branch to Kyerematen for a return to the party.
“Every vote counts, and the possibility that he could sway some of our votes is a concern we have to address. But we need to stay focused and run our best campaign. It’s too late now to try to reach out. I was very hurt by this situation, but we must move forward and fight through the elections.”
Mr. Agyepong is optimistic that the various infrastructure projects initiated by the government will encourage voters to support Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming elections.
“I’m very confident that the party’s record, especially regarding community needs, will resonate with the electorate. The infrastructure delivered, along with the impactful Free SHS policy, has affected every household, and areas that previously lacked asphalt roads have now received them.
“The health facilities that have been established and completed are significant issues for Ghanaians, and these accomplishments will matter to voters.”
