The Overlord of Asanteman, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has eulogized the immediate past Trade and Industry Minister, Mr Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen for exemplifying traits of a gentleman throughout his political life.
According to the Asante King, the Trade Minister had comported himself well in both private and public life since he got to know him.
The Asantehene made these remarks when the former Trade Minister paid a visit to him at the Manhyia Palace Monday morning to publicly make his intentions clear of seeking to contest as flag bearer of the NPP when nominations are opened.
‘’ Since yours is a democratic political party others who also have interest in contesting would also come just as you have come to seek my blessings but I urge you to be the gentleman and hard working man I have known and let’s see who God crowns as flag bearer of your party’’, Otumfuo stated.
ADMONITION:
The Asante King reminded the NPP that even though they may be planning to elect a flag-bearer, they should be mindful that whoever they choose should be acceptable to the majority of Ghanaians since they are the ones the leader would be serving when he becomes President.
The King said a person who can work to advance the fortunes and living standards of the Ghanaian people should be considered when they go out to elect a flag-bearer.
The Asantehene therefore urged Alan to conduct himself in manners that would continue to endear him to the party’s delegates and Ghanaians.
‘’I want to remind the NPP and your members that when you go out to elect a flag-bearer you should choose someone who would also be accepted by the Ghanaian people since the ultimate service would be to them’’, the King posited.
ALAN KYEREMATEN:
Addressing the Asantehene and his sub-chiefs at the Palace earlier, Mr Alan Kyerematen thanked Otumfuo for his prayer and support during his tenure as Minister.
He noted that the timely and deep guidance from Otumfuo had shaped him up to do what he has become noted for.
The one district one factory program under the Trade Ministry, the Minister revealed, became successful because of the particular input and support from the Asante Monarch.
‘’Otumfuo I owe my success to your timely and constant advice and as I seek to lead the NPP party as flag-bearer when nominations are opened I decided to come to you for your blessings for a successful campaign’’, Mr Kyerematen stated.
Accompanying the former Trade Minister who is billed to tour Ashanti for two days including a public campaign at Heroes Park were Sampson Kwaku Boafo, former MP for Subin and Chieftaincy Minister, Collins Owusu Amankwah, former MP for Manhyia North, Mr Asafu Agyei, former MP for Nsuta-Kwamang-Beposo as well as Yaw Buaben Asamoa and Boniface Saddique, former MPs for Adenta and Madina Abokobi.
STORY BY MICHAEL OFOSU-AFRIYIE, KUMASI