In a recent press conference held on November 21, 2024, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), publicly condemned Alan Kyerematen for his critical remarks about former President John Agyekum Kufuor. Wontumi expressed his disapproval of Kyerematen’s comments, which he viewed as a betrayal of the political legacy and contributions of Kufuor towards Kyerematen’s own political career. Kyerematen, currently leading the Movement for Change as an independent presidential candidate, had criticized Kufuor for endorsing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s flagbearer for the upcoming elections.
Kyerematen articulated his disdain for Kufuor’s endorsement during an appearance on Oyerepa TV, arguing that the act diminished Kufuor’s reputation and exposed him to public criticism. He described the endorsement as leaving “a big blot” on Kufuor’s political record and highlighted the negative backlash the former president faced following the endorsement, noting the insults directed at him. Kyerematen, clearly disappointed with Kufuor’s actions, questioned why a respected political figure like Kufuor would subject himself to such public disdain. He took a critical stance, stating that it was unbecoming for a statesman to be involved in a scenario that elicited such widespread derision.
In response to Kyerematen’s accusations, Chairman Wontumi labeled his comments as disgraceful, alleging that Kyerematen was being manipulated by opposition leader John Mahama to unjustly attack Kufuor. Wontumi characterized Kyerematen’s decision to speak negatively about Kufuor as shameful and unworthy of a statesman, suggesting that he had stooped to a low level by allowing external political pressures to dictate his remarks. This exchange underscores the intense political polarization and the ongoing rivalries within Ghana’s political landscape, particularly as the elections approached.
Wontumi did not stop at just condemning Kyerematen’s comments about Kufuor but also expressed deep concern regarding Kyerematen’s recent departure from the NPP. He accused Kyerematen of betrayal akin to Judas’ denial of Jesus, insinuating that Kyerematen’s actions are indicative of a deeper unfaithfulness to the party and its foundational principles. This metaphor emphasizes the gravity of his accusations and the symbolic weight of perceived betrayal in political circles, especially within a party that has provided so much to its members.
Furthermore, Wontumi took the opportunity to remind Kyerematen of the essential role both the NPP and Kufuor played in shaping his political career. He argued that Kyerematen’s success was intrinsically linked to the support and opportunities provided by the party and its leaders, particularly during Kufuor’s presidency, which began in 2000. Wontumi’s comments reflected an underlying expectation of loyalty and gratitude from party members, especially those who have benefited from the party’s infrastructure and political backing in their careers.
Ultimately, the public spat between Chairman Wontumi and Alan Kyerematen sheds light on the fractures within the NPP and the broader Ghanaian political environment as the election date of December 7 approaches. Kyerematen’s comments highlight a significant shift in his allegiance, as he distances himself from the NPP while Wontumi’s responses evoke a call for loyalty and recognition of one’s roots in the political sphere. This conflict encapsulates the struggle for identity, loyalty, and political survival amidst a backdrop of intense competition for power and influence in Ghana’s political landscape.
