The Founder of the United Party and former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, has outlined the foundational values of his newly launched political organization, positioning it as a values-driven movement aimed at reshaping Ghana’s political and governance culture.
Speaking at the official unveiling of the party, Mr. Kyerematen emphasized that the true strength and soul of any political organization lie not in its wealth or size, but in its moral compass and guiding principles.
“You may become rich, but if you don’t have values, then nobody respects you. Your value system as a political organization, for me, is your anchor.”
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
The former presidential candidate, who founded the Movement for Change after parting ways with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), said the United Party is open to all Ghanaians irrespective of background or political affiliation. However, he stressed that anyone joining the party must adhere to its clearly defined core values.
He began by highlighting integrity and ethical leadership as the foremost principles guiding the United Party. According to him, leadership that upholds integrity must exist at every level of the political structure, not just at the presidency.
“Ethical leadership and integrity are not just for the president. If you are a constituency chairman, you are a leader. If you are a polling station chairman, you are the leader of your polling station. So we want you to exhibit that kind of leadership.”
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
Mr. Kyerematen also emphasized the importance of discipline in national life, describing it as a cultural deficiency that has slowed Ghana’s progress. Using Germany as an example, he noted that punctuality and orderliness are taught from an early age, and Ghana must cultivate a similar mindset if it hopes to develop.
“We want to introduce a culture of discipline in all aspects of national life. In Ghana, if a function is supposed to start at 10, people assume everyone will be late, so they come at 11. We must change that attitude.”
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
Rule of Law: A Pillar of Good Governance
The United Party, he added, will also prioritize law and order as a pillar of governance. He lamented the growing disregard for laws in Ghana and said one of the party’s key commitments will be ensuring that the rule of law is respected and enforced.
In outlining the party’s next core value, Mr. Kyerematen spoke passionately about meritocracy and excellence, insisting that appointments and opportunities should be based on competence and achievement rather than political connections.
“Sometimes you wonder, how did this man get into this position? Somehow he has maneuvered to become a big man in society. That is not meritocracy. We want to promote meritocracy and have a passion for excellence. How can you become the economic powerhouse of Africa if you don’t have a passion for excellence?”
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
He further stressed the need to foster tolerance and decency in political discourse, criticizing the growing use of insults and divisive language in Ghana’s public conversations.
“Are you happy with the kind of language we use in public discourse? Nobody has shown direction that it is not right to insult people just because they have a different opinion. The UP will change that”.
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
Patriotism and the Promotion of National Interest
Another cornerstone of the United Party’s philosophy, he said, is patriotism and the promotion of national interest above personal gain. He lamented that too many Ghanaians, including those in leadership, prioritize individual advancement over the collective good.
“In Ghana, everybody is protecting their own interests. How can we develop as a nation if we forget about the interests of Ghana?” he asked.
Beyond values of governance and ethics, Mr. Kyerematen also identified entrepreneurship as a defining feature of the Ghanaian identity that has been stifled by partisan politics and weak leadership.
He said the United Party intends to “unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of Ghanaians,” which he believes will be critical to achieving national prosperity. “What makes Ghanaians different is our entrepreneurial spirit. But our politics has dampened that spirit. You need a new party that will unleash it,” he said.
Mr. Kyerematen concluded by reaffirming the United Party’s commitment to free speech, freedom of association, and resistance to oppression in all forms. He described the new organization as “UP Plus,” a modern iteration of the old United Party tradition that combines historical values with a forward-looking, people-centered vision.
“We want to fight against dictatorship, oppression, and the subversion of human rights, he emphasized, adding that the party’s principles must also be reflected in the personal lives of its members.
“When you go to work and cannot give your best, check what is happening at home. Somebody is being oppressed — either the man or the woman. You cannot give your best if you are oppressed.”
Alan Kwadwo John Kyerematen, Founder of the United Party
Through these guiding principles, Mr. Kyerematen said, the United Party seeks to build a new political culture defined by integrity, accountability, and respect for all.
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