Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, popularly known as Joe Wise, has said the party is prepared to welcome former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, back but will not consider his demand to become its flagbearer.

According to Joe Wise, who doubles as the Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Disciplinary Committee, the party has already elected its flagbearer for the next general election, making it impossible for Kyerematen to assume the position without following the party’s established electoral process.

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Osei-Owusu said the former minister could rejoin the party if he follows the appropriate procedures for former members seeking a return.

His comments follow Kyerematen’s declaration that he would only consider returning to the NPP if he were offered the opportunity to lead the party as its flagbearer.

Speaking to the media at an NPP sensitisation programme for constituency secretaries in the Ashanti Region, held in Kumasi, Joe Wise described the demand as unacceptable, adding that he initially thought the former minister was joking.

“The party has a channel of electing a flagbearer, and that procedure has been completed. So, if Bawumia finishes his term and Alan comes back, we will see whether he can go unopposed. But for now, I don’t think the party can accept him as flagbearer,” he said.

He explained that the party has established procedures for former members who wish to return and urged Kyerematen to follow the process if he is serious about rejoining the NPP.

Osei-Owusu further stressed the importance of expanding the party’s membership, noting that Kyerematen had contributed to the NPP in various capacities during his time as a member.

“Alan Kyerematen has duly served the party in so many ways, so if he comes, we will accept him,” he stated.

NA/VPO