BY Grace Zigah
The internal succession race within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has entered a new phase, as National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah begins a three-day tour of the Eastern Region while speculation mounts about his presidential ambitions ahead of the 2028 elections.
Thank You Tour
Between September 17 and 19, 2025, Asiedu Nketiah—popularly known as “General Mosquito”—is scheduled to visit 15 constituencies across the Eastern Region as part of a “Thank You Tour” to engage party executives, chiefs, assembly members, and grassroots organizations. The move, The Daily Gist learnt has unsettled the party as he tries to divert attention to himself.
The itinerary, released by the NDC’s regional office, indicates meetings with branch and constituency executives, coordinators, cadres, traditional leaders, transport unions, and other influential local groups.
From Asuogyamang to Akwatia, the Chairman’s engagements are designed to consolidate support and energize the rank-and-file of the party.
Party insiders note that while the tour is officially framed as a gesture of appreciation following the 2024 general elections, it also offers Asiedu Nketiah an opportunity to test his influence in a region historically aligned to the NPP.
A Video That Sparked The Buzz
Fueling speculation about his future role in NDC politics, a video recently circulated online featuring Asiedu Nketiah’s trademark “mosquito” soundbite with the bold inscription: “Courageous, Trustworthy, and Experienced.”
The video concluded with the NDC chairman dressed in a striking fugu patterned in the party’s red, green, white, and black colors, accompanied by the tagline “Follow Akantamansoians.”
Supporters have since gone a step further, mounting campaign-style banners across the country as recently noticed in parts of the Upper West Region. One banner boldly declared: “NDC Youth Brigade for Asiedu Nketiah – Upper West Region Chapter – Next President of Ghana.”
Though Asiedu Nketiah has not officially declared his presidential bid, the signs suggest he is preparing the ground.
Mahama’s Exit Creates A Vacuum
The succession contest has been triggered by President John Dramani Mahama’s confirmation that he will not contest for the NDC flagbearership in 2028.
Having returned to power in 2024, Mahama will constitutionally end his final term in 2028, leaving the party in search of a new leader.
Party strategists warn that the NDC’s fortunes in 2028 will depend not only on who emerges as candidate but also on the performance of John Mahama’s government in the years ahead.
Asiedu Nketiah himself has repeatedly stressed that a weak Mahama administration could undermine the chances of any successor, no matter how experienced or popular.
The Growing List Of Contenders
The race to succeed Mahama is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive in NDC history, with several heavyweight figures emerging
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah: With more than 30 years of service to the NDC, rising from MP and Deputy Minister to General Secretary and now National Chairman, his grassroots following is unrivaled.
However, at 71 years by 2028, age could be a key consideration for delegates.
Julius Debrah: The current Chief of Staff and one of Mahama’s closest aides, Debrah is widely viewed as a frontrunner. With a career spanning roles as Regional Minister, Local Government Minister, and now the president’s right-hand man, he is seen as a unifier with cross-regional appeal.
Haruna Iddrisu: The Education Minister and long-time MP for Tamale South represents generational renewal at 54. His strong parliamentary record is an asset, though critics caution against back-to-back northern candidates.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson: As Finance Minister, he commands respect among professionals and the middle class. However, allegations of contract centralization and his perceived alignment with foreign interests may limit his grassroots traction.
Goosie Tanoh: A seasoned reformist and envoy for Mahama’s 24-hour Economy Initiative, Tanoh appeals to intellectuals and reformists but lacks broad grassroots mobilization.
Eric Opoku: The Agriculture Minister’s success in revitalizing agribusiness has earned him praise. Backed by First Lady Lordina Mahama, his candidacy could appeal to middle-belt voters, though he remains an underdog.
Akwasi Oppong-Fosu: A former MP and long-serving District Chief Executive, Oppong-Fosu’s ministerial experience in Local Government and Environment positions him as a technocrat who understands governance systems.
What Lies Ahead
Asiedu Nketiah’s Eastern Regional tour may be billed as a routine thank-you exercise, but the political undertones are unmistakable.
His movements are being closely watched by party faithful, rivals, and political analysts alike.
For the NDC, the 2028 race is not just about replacing Mahama—it is about defining the party’s identity for the next generation.
Whether Asiedu Nketiah ultimately declares his bid or plays kingmaker, his actions in the coming months will shape the trajectory of the-ruling government.
