Mawerehene Baffour Brentuo Osei Hwedie Hyiaman, a revered figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has lambasted the current leadership for sidelining key founding members, including presidential hopeful Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen.

Speaking with unbridled passion and pain at his palace in Santanse Apre Heman, Atwima Kwanwoma, Manwerehene recalled the tumultuous era of Jerry John Rawlings, where multi-party democracy was prohibited. He emphasized that none of the current NPP leadership was present during the party’s formation in 1992.

Manwerehene expressed his disappointment and frustration, stating that people like himself, who played instrumental roles in the party’s early days, have been marginalized and their contributions overlooked. He singled out Alan Kyerematen, who he described as having “really sacrificed for the party.”

Manwerehene also took aim at Hackman Owusu Agyemang, the eldest person in the current NPP leadership, stating that he didn’t play a vital role in the party’s formation.

In a show of solidarity, Manwerehene endorsed Alan Kyerematen’s presidential bid, urging his people to rally behind him. He believes Alan has the capacity to lead the country better than anyone else.

Alan Kyerematen’s visit to Manwerehene’s palace coincided with his 19-day campaign tour in the Ashanti Region. The presidential hopeful aims to sell his message and garner votes in every constituency and community.

Manwerehene’s statements have significant implications for the NPP, highlighting:

1. Divisions within the party: The marginalization of founding members may create divisions and tensions within the party.
2. Legitimacy of current leadership: Questions arise about the legitimacy of the current leadership, who weren’t present during the party’s formation.
3. Alan Kyerematen’s chances: Manwerehene’s endorsement may boost Alan Kyerematen’s presidential bid, particularly in the Ashanti Region.

As the NPP navigates its internal dynamics, Manwerehene’s words serve as a stark reminder of the party’s history and the importance of honoring its founding members.