Alan Kyeremanten, a leading contender for the 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential nomination, has withdrawn from the race. He cited violence against his supporters and systemic bias in favor of one candidate during the super delegates conference as his reasons for withdrawing.
Kyeremanten, who is the former Trade and Industry Minister, said in a statement that he made the decision after careful consideration. He said that he was disappointed by the level of violence at the super delegates conference, and that he was also concerned about the allegations of bias against his campaign.
"I am withdrawing from the race because I believe that the playing field is not level," Kyeremanten said. "There has been violence against my supporters, and there has been systemic bias in favor of one candidate. I cannot continue in a race that is not fair."
Kyeremanten's withdrawal is a significant development in the NPP presidential race. He was one of the leading contenders for the nomination, and his withdrawal will likely give an advantage to the other candidates, particularly Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
Bawumia is seen as the frontrunner in the race, and his chances of winning the nomination have been boosted by Kyeremanten's withdrawal. However, there are still other strong contenders in the race, including former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko and businessman Kennedy Agyapong.
The NPP presidential primaries are scheduled to be held in October 2023. It remains to be seen who will emerge as the party's nominee, but Kyeremanten's withdrawal has certainly made the race more competitive.
In his statement, Kyeremanten said that he would address his political future in due course. It is possible that he will remain in the NPP and continue to support the party, but it is also possible that he will leave the party and join another one.
Only time will tell what Kyeremanten's next move will be. However, his withdrawal from the 2024 NPP Presidential race is a significant development that will likely have a major impact on the race.