Alan Kyerematen pledges bold constitutional shake-up to bring chiefs back into power

Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, the Presidential candidate and leader of the Movement for Change, has given a firm assurance to traditional leaders that he will include them in his government if elected as President of Ghana.

Speaking at the Palace of Drobonsohene, Nana Dwamena Dankwa Dwobisaw II on Sunday, October 6, 2024, in the Afram Plains Constituency, Ashanti Region, Alan Kyerematen blamed the 1992 Constitution for sidelining chiefs in modern governance.

He argued that the Constitution did not give traditional leaders the power to actively participate in national governance, stating, "When Alan comes, we will change that aspect of the Constitution." His view is that the roles of traditional leaders and politicians are aligned, as both aim to bring development to their people.

"Those in politics know that politics and chieftaincy have the same objective of bringing development to the people, so there is no difference between us," he emphasized.

Alan Kyerematen's promise to involve chiefs in governance is not just rhetoric. His Great Transformational Plan (GTP) already outlines a clear role for chiefs, making them co-trustees of lands and natural resources. Furthermore, the GTP envisions the creation of a Second Chamber of governance where traditional leaders will have a prominent role. This is a significant departure from the current political structure, reaffirming Mr. Kyerematen’s respect and confidence in the role of chiefs.

Alan Kyerematen’s commitment to traditional authorities may be deeply influenced by his family heritage. His late father, Dr. Alexander Atta Yaw Kyerematen, played an instrumental role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Asanteman and Ghana at large. This legacy of reverence for tradition and culture is now mirrored in his campaign to restore the status of chiefs in modern governance.

The Movement for Change leader is currently on a 19-day campaign tour of the Ashanti Region ahead of the December 7 polls. His visit to Drobonso is just one of many stops as he engages with chiefs and their communities. Earlier, he held a private conversation with the Kumawumanhene, Barima Tweneboa Kodua II, further strengthening his ties with the traditional leadership.

During his interaction with the people of Drobonso, Alan urged them to support him in the upcoming election, highlighting his position as number 13 on the ballot. His campaign continues to gain momentum in his home region, where he is receiving a groundswell of support. The Ashanti Region, known for its deep-rooted political loyalty, is now showing undeniable love for one of its own.

The support Alan Kyerematen is garnering in the Ashanti Region underscores the difference between a delegate election and a general election. The chiefs, the youth, and the people are rallying behind him in ways that were not evident during the NPP primaries. This wave of support is a clear indication that the Ashantis are fully backing their own to lead the country.

As Alan Kyerematen’s campaign snowballs in his home region, the broader message of inclusion, respect for tradition, and national development resonates deeply. With his plans to revamp the Constitution to include chiefs, Mr. Kyerematen is positioning himself as the candidate who will restore the dignity and role of traditional leadership in Ghana’s governance.