Alan Kyerematen, once buoyed by the hopeful nickname “Alan Cash,” finds his political influence waning after decades near Ghana’s summit of power.
Analysts now argue his best shot at the presidency slipped away years ago, despite early charisma that promised to bridge divides. What happened?
Many point to 2008 as the turning point. After losing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) primary to Nana Akufo-Addo, Kyerematen retreated from the spotlight.
Professor Ransford Gyampo of the University of Ghana believes that was the moment. “The country wanted someone connecting grassroots hopes with economic pragmatism,” Gyampo noted. “Alan had trade expertise and charm. But he stepped back instead of pushing forward.” Political analyst Dr. Franklin Oduro agrees, suggesting Kyerematen’s loyalty to Akufo-Addo cost him dearly as voters hungered for fresh leadership amid economic strain.
His “Alan Cash” persona, earned during successful stints as Trade Minister under President Kufuor, once symbolized resourcefulness and export growth. Yet his return as Trade and Industry Minister from 2017-2023 under Akufo-Addo proved less stellar.
Flagship projects like the One District, One Factory initiative drew mixed reviews. Critics saw unmet promises and sluggish results. “Linking his brand to an administration many felt underdelivered eroded his standing,” said Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey of IDEG. “The shine faded.”
Kyerematen’s recent exit from the NPP to run as an independent in 2024 underscores his diminished party clout. Few see a path to victory outside Ghana’s two-party system.
“Independents struggle in our polarized climate,” observed political science lecturer Dr. Michael Osei. “Without the NPP machine, his base looks too narrow.”
The lesson? Timing defines political legacies. Kyerematen’s peak appeal in the late 2000s wasn’t seized, leaving Ghanaians to wonder what might have been.
While he could still reframe his message around jobs or anti-corruption, history may recall him as the leader who hesitated when the door opened widest.
