As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares for another flagbearership contest, the silence of President Nana Akufo-Addo on Alan Kyerematen’s candidacy has been a topic of debate.

Many see this as a betrayal, while others argue that it is a gesture of fair play.

But in this high-stakes political game, does the answer lie somewhere in between?

Alan Kyerematen and Nana Akufo-Addo have a long history of competing for the NPP’s flagbearership.

In the 2007 contest, neither candidate secured the required 50% plus one vote, leading to a run-off election.

However, Alan stepped down in favor of Akufo-Addo, who promised to support Alan after serving his tenure.

This promise, however, has not been fulfilled in subsequent elections, with Akufo-Addo defeating Alan in the run-up to both the 2012 and 2016 contests.

As Akufo-Addo’s tenure comes to an end in 2025, many believed Alan would have a clear path to lead the party in the 2024 elections.

But Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has recently confirmed his intention to contest the flagbearership, casting doubt on Alan’s prospects.

Akufo-Addo’s silence on the matter has left many questioning whether he has betrayed Alan or is simply committed to the democratic process and ensuring a fair contest.

One could argue that Akufo-Addo’s promise to support Alan ended with the party’s loss in the 2008 elections.

After all, Alan chose to contest against Akufo-Addo in subsequent primaries, signalling that the promise may no longer be binding.

Moreover, Akufo-Addo, a former human rights lawyer, may believe that imposing his will on Bawumia would be undemocratic and contrary to the principles of fair play.

On the other hand, the perceived betrayal could have far-reaching consequences for the party.

Should Alan lose the race, squabbles and internal divisions could emerge within the NPP, potentially weakening the party’s prospects in the 2024 general elections.

A united front is crucial for any political party, and the perceived betrayal could sow seeds of discontent among party members and supporters.

Akufo-Addo’s silence on Alan’s candidacy can be seen as both a betrayal and a commitment to fair play, depending on one’s perspective.

While it may appear that he has not kept his promise to support Alan, his silence could also be an indication to his belief in the democratic process and the importance of fair competition.

Regardless of the outcome, the NPP has it as a duty to ensure that unity prevails in the aftermath of the flagbearership contest, as internal divisions could weaken the party’s chances in the 2024 general elections.