In a significant political shift, over one hundred supporters of Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s Movement for Change have officially defected to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the country gears up for the 2024 general elections. This move was announced during a press conference held in Cape Coast, where the group articulated their reasons for leaving the Movement for Change and expressed their commitment to supporting the NPP in the upcoming elections.
The supporters, who previously campaigned vigorously for Kyerematen during the presidential primaries, have cited the numerous developmental projects undertaken by the NPP across the country as a key factor influencing their decision to switch allegiances. They believe that under the leadership of the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party stands a better chance of securing victory in the 2024 elections. This sentiment reflects a growing confidence among some former Kyerematen supporters that the NPP’s track record and future prospects are more aligned with their political aspirations.
The leader of the defectors, Francis Edzie, now serves as the polling station secretary for the NPP in the Twi-Ndzi-Twi Jejem Electoral Area in Cape Coast South. During the press conference, he emphasized the unity and collective decision-making within the group, stating that they have heeded the calls from the national campaign team of Dr. Bawumia. Edzie expressed optimism about their decision, asserting that it is in the best interest of both the NPP and the individuals involved. “We, the campaign team members of Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, during the presidential primaries, have gathered here today. Some of us followed him to the Movement of Change when he withdrew from the presidential primaries. Upon advice from national campaign leadership, we, the youth in the Central Region, who campaigned for Alan and his Movement for Change, have decided to return to our mother party, the NPP,” Edzie stated.
He further referenced a well-known saying by former president John Kofi Agyekum Kufuor, noting, “It is better to be a messenger in a ruling party than to be a general secretary in a position party.” This remark underscores the sentiment among the defectors that being part of a ruling party provides them with greater opportunities for influence and impact. Edzie highlighted the numerous departmental projects that the NPP has undertaken during its nearly eight-year term in office, arguing that the party’s progress should continue rather than support an opposition party that they perceive as lacking direction.
The announcement of the defections has sparked discussions within political circles, particularly concerning the NPP’s strategy for the upcoming elections. The ruling party has faced challenges, including economic issues and public dissatisfaction in certain areas, but the influx of former Kyerematen supporters may bolster its campaign efforts, particularly in the Central Region. The addition of these new members could provide fresh energy and grassroots support, particularly among the youth who have expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Bawumia’s leadership.
As the political landscape evolves in the lead-up to the elections, it remains to be seen how this shift will affect both the Movement for Change and the NPP’s campaign strategies. The Movement for Change, which was formed by Kyerematen following his withdrawal from the presidential primaries, has faced challenges in maintaining its momentum and support base. This defection is a significant blow to Kyerematen, who has struggled to consolidate his position within the political sphere since his departure from the NPP.
The NPP is now focused on harnessing the energy of the newly acquired supporters and integrating them into its campaign machinery. With the elections just around the corner, party officials are working tirelessly to unify their base and present a strong front against the opposition. The addition of former Kyerematen supporters is seen as a strategic move that could enhance the party’s appeal and messaging as it seeks to secure another term in office.
In conclusion, the defection of over one hundred supporters from Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen’s Movement for Change to the NPP marks a notable shift in the political dynamics of the Central Region ahead of the 2024 general elections. The decision reflects a broader trend among some former supporters who are aligning themselves with the ruling party, driven by the belief in the NPP’s developmental projects and leadership under Dr. Bawumia. As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how these changes impact the election strategies of both the NPP and the Movement for Change in the coming weeks.
