Former Energy Minister Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko has served notice he will not take part in Saturday’s run-off with former Asante Mampong Member of Parliament (MP) Francis Addai-Nimoh.
According to Mr Agyarko, it is unconstitutional for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to allow only National Council members vote.
A decision was taken on Wednesday, August 30 to restrict Saturday’s run-off, which is meant to elect a fifth aspirant for the November 4 Presidential Primary, to only members of the Council.
According to the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken, inter alia, to save cost.
But Mr Agyarko says this is not constitutional and he will not take part in any unconstitutionality.
“It is totally unacceptable to me that such an unconstitutional act can be perpetuated on the altar of expediency,” he indicated in a letter to the Chairman of the Presidential Elections Committee.
“Am I to surmise that the party did not know the cost implication? It is unconscionable that the rules of the game will be changed midstream,” he stated on Thursday, August 31.
“Rules and regulations that are flip-flopped in such a manner is only detrimental to fair play and justice.
“It is a clear violation of the party’s constitution and the guidelines for the Special Electoral College. It is an unconstitutional act which I cannot allow myself to be associated with.”
He said his conscience will judge him if he partakes in such a process arrived at from an “errant decision”.
“I, therefore, respectfully, serve this notice to refrain from such a contest. As always, I wish the party well.”
This decision is likely to give Mr Addai-Nimoh the greenlight to be part of the five for the November 4 primary.