Richard Dela Sky writes: Alan vrs NPP: The Divorce that Can Make or Unmake the Elephant Family

In the ever-evolving minefield of politics, every move, every speech, and every decision carries profound implications. The recent resignation of Mr Alan Kyerematen, a prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana, has sent ripples through the political landscape. Such departures have the potential, as they have done in the past, to reshape the political narrative and redefine the fortunes of political parties.

In this short note, I sought to delve into the repercussions of Alan Kyerematen’s exit from the NPP and the subsequent response from the party’s leadership. I expended words dissecting the allegations made by Alan Kyerematen and the counterarguments presented by the NPP, examining – briefly – the potential impact on the party’s unity, voter base, and prospects in the critical 2024 elections.

Alan Kyerematen’s Allegations:

1. Alan Kyerematen alleged at a press conference yesterday that the National Council of the New Patriotic Party made unconstitutional decisions regarding the Super Delegates Conference.
2. He claimed that the Super Delegates Conference was strategically skewed to favor one aspirant.
3. Alan Kyerematen asserted that the Party had been hijacked by a selected group of leaders and government appointees and behind-the-scenes power brokers.
4. He mentioned concerns of intimidation against his supporters.

NPP’s Response:

1. The NPP, at a press conference today, stated that the National Council’s decisions regarding the Super Delegates Conference were in accordance with the Party’s Constitution and historical precedents. They emphasized that the National Council did not violate the Constitution by voting against certain proposals.
2. The Party argued that the demand by petitioners for delegates to vote for five persons instead of one was unconstitutional. They highlighted that a democratic process was followed, with a significant majority of the National Council voting against both proposals.
3. The NPP rejected the assertion that the Party had been hijacked by a privileged few. They explained that the Party had decentralized its electoral college to include a larger number of delegates, thus broadening participation and defeating the claim of hijacking by a selected group.
4. The NPP refuted allegations of intimidation against Alan Kyerematen’s supporters by pointing out that government appointees who openly supported him remained in their positions without facing intimidation.

Strengths of NPP’s response:

1. Acknowledgment of Contributions: The statement starts by acknowledging Alan Kyerematen’s contributions to the party and expresses gratitude for his services. This shows a degree of respect and appreciation for his role in the party.
2. Explanation of Party Decisions: The statement provides explanations and legal references to counter some of the claims made by Alan Kyerematen in his resignation speech. This helps to clarify the party’s stance on certain issues.
3. Call for Unity: The statement emphasizes the importance of unity within the party and encourages party faithfuls to remain committed and dedicated to the NPP’s goals. This promotes party cohesion and solidarity.

Gaps in NPP’s response:

1. Lack of Empathy: While the statement acknowledges Alan Kyerematen’s contributions, it could have expressed empathy or regret for his decision to resign. A more empathetic tone could help maintain a sense of unity within the party and among supporters.
2. Missing Clarifications: Although the statement attempts to clarify certain issues raised by Alan Kyerematen, it does not address all the concerns and allegations made in his resignation speech. Addressing all relevant points would be more comprehensive and convincing.
3. No Mention of Reconciliation Efforts: The statement mentions that the National Chairman visited Alan Kyerematen, but it doesn’t provide details about any reconciliation efforts or discussions that might have taken place. Sharing such efforts could demonstrate the party’s commitment to resolving internal disputes.
4. No Mention of Future Plans: The statement doesn’t outline any plans or strategies to move forward or to fill the gap left by Alan Kyerematen’s resignation. Providing a vision for the party’s future could inspire confidence among party members and supporters.
5. Lack of Outreach: While the statement addresses party faithful, it doesn’t extend a message or outreach to the broader public or potential voters. Sharing the party’s vision and objectives beyond internal matters could be more inclusive.

Conclusion

In summary, the NPP’s response to Alan Kyerematen’s resignation contains some strengths in terms of explanations and calls for unity, but it also has yawning gaps in terms of empathy, addressing all concerns, outlining future plans, and reaching out beyond party members. A more comprehensive and empathetic response might help the party navigate this internal challenge more effectively.

Without any doubt, Alan Kyerematen’s exit from the NPP undeniably carries a substantial risk of negatively affecting the party’s fortunes in the 2024 elections. Only zealots who are decidedly naive will poo-poo the potency of this risk. His departure, without any doubt, leaves a void that may be challenging to fill, given his significant influence within the party and his popularity among certain segments of the electorate.

While the NPP has a history of resilience and adaptability, and transitions can lead to rediscovery and renewal, there’s no denying the immediate challenges this exit poses. It could potentially result in internal divisions, loss of supporters, and a need for the party to work harder to regain its electoral appeal.

In politics, uncertainty is a constant, and it’s essential for the NPP to acknowledge and address these challenges head-on. While there is an opportunity for rejuvenation, there is also a substantial risk of a negative impact on the party’s performance in the upcoming elections. The ultimate outcome will depend on how the NPP navigates this period of change and whether it can effectively rally its members, rebuild its battered image, and connect with voters in 2024.

While retaining the keys to the Flagstaff House in next year’s polls seems virtually an impossible task, largely because of the government’s failure – so far – to deliver the Ghana Beyond Aid promised by Nana Addo, politics teaches us that not all is lost until all is lost. As such, the party may want to invoke the wisdom of its respected former chair, B.J. da Rocha (of blessed memory) who scribbled to the following words to the media in the immediate aftermath of Alan Kyerementen’s first resignation from the NPP in 2008:

“In light of this latest statement, it is my considered view that it will not be in the best interest of the NPP to receive Mr. Alan Kyeremateng back into the party’s fold. He will become a disruptive factor in the party, a stumbling block, a loose cannon. The party has an election to win. We should concentrate our efforts on the task ahead and let him go his way in peace.”

rD.s