Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, a presidential aspirant from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially withdrawn from the upcoming run-off election, which was intended to determine the 5th aspirant.
This decision comes in response to the NPP’s announcement that its National Council would form an electoral college to resolve the tie between Mr. Agyarko and his rival, Francis Addai Nimoh, both of whom secured the 5th position in the recently concluded super delegate conference.
In a press release issued by Mr. Agyarko, he has characterized this move as unconstitutional, arguing that the National Council’s selection of a few individuals to represent the 955 participants from the first round is not in line with the party’s democratic principles.
He further contends that the establishment of this electoral college also violates the party’s constitution, pointing to additional legal violations as well.
“It is totally unacceptable to me that such an unconstitutional act can be perpetuated on the altar of expediency. Am I to surmise that the party did not know the cost implication? It is unconscionable that the rules of the game will be changed midstream.
“Rules and regulations that are flip-flopped in such a manner is only detrimental to fair play and justice. It is a clear violation of the party’s constitution and the guidelines for the Special Electoral College. It is an unconstitutional act which | cannot allow myself to be associated with,” portions of his statement read.
In light of these concerns, the former Energy Minister asserts that he cannot, in good conscience, participate in an electoral process that disrupts an earlier mutually agreed-upon procedure.
“I, therefore, respectfully, serve this notice to refrain from such a contest. As always, I wish the party well.”
On Saturday, August 26, during the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Conference, six presidential aspirants successfully advanced in the competition. Leading the pack was Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 68.15% (629) of the total votes. He was followed by Kennedy Agyapong, who secured 15.03% (132) of the total votes.
Alan Kyerematen secured the third position with 10.29% (95) of the total votes, while Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto came in fourth place with 3.90% (36) of the votes.
Interestingly, although the Super Delegates Conference was originally intended to select five candidates, it resulted in a tie for the fifth position, with both Francis Addai Nimoh and Boakye Kyeremateng Ayarko receiving nine votes each.