BY Grace Zigah
The succession battle within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has taken a dramatic turn, with the party’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, popularly known as “General Mosquito,” signaling his readiness to enter the race to succeed President John Dramani Mahama in 2028.
A Video That Sparked Debate
Speculation about Asiedu Nketiah’s presidential ambition gained momentum after a short video surfaced online.
The clip featured his signature mosquito soundbite, accompanied by the bold description: “Courageous, Trustworthy, and Experienced.”
The video ended with him dressed in a striking fugu woven in the NDC’s red, green, white, and black colors, with the message “Follow Akantamansoians.”
While he has yet to make an official declaration, his supporters have already begun mounting campaign-style banners across parts of the Upper West Region. One banner, in bold letters, read:
“NDC Youth Brigade for Asiedu Nketiah – Upper West Region Chapter – Next President of Ghana.”
This development has stirred excitement and unease within the NDC, which now finds itself navigating a crowded field of aspirants following Mahama’s decision not to contest beyond 2028 in line with constitutional term limit.
Mahama’s Exit
President John Dramani Mahama, who returned to power in the 2024 elections, has confirmed that he will not seek the party’s flagbearership in the 2028 polls.
Constitutionally, 2028 will be his final term, marking the end of an era for the NDC.
His announcement has opened the floodgates for internal competition.
Party strategists warn that John Mahama’s performance in office over the next three years will directly impact the electoral chances of whoever takes up the NDC mantle.
Even Asiedu Nketiah himself has repeatedly cautioned that a weak Mahama administration could undermine the party’s prospects, no matter the strength of its candidate.
The Growing List of Contenders
Six figures have so far emerged as likely aspirants for the NDC’s 2028 presidential ticket, each with unique appeal and vulnerabilities:
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah: With more than three decades of service to the party, he has risen from MP and Deputy Minister to General Secretary and now National Chairman.
His grassroots following are unmatched, though questions about his age—he will be 71 by 2028—may shape perceptions.
Julius Debrah: Currently Chief of Staff, Debrah is viewed as a unifying force within the NDC. His long career as Regional Minister, Local Government Minister, and now Mahama’s closest aide makes him a formidable contender. He appears to be the frontrunner with the ability to attract floating voters.
Over the weekend he was seen at the Asempa Fm walk with the stars actively participating in the exercise amidst the fanfare.
Haruna Iddrisu: The Education Minister and Tamale South MP is highly regarded for his parliamentary leadership. At 54, he represents generational renewal, though some fear voter fatigue with consecutive northern candidates.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson: The Finance Minister commands respect in economic circles and appeals to the professional class. However, accusations of centralizing contracts and aligning with foreign interests may hinder his chances.
Goosie Tanoh: A veteran reformist and envoy for Mahama’s 24-hour Economy Initiative, Tanoh appeals to intellectuals and reformists but lacks a strong grassroots base.
Eric Opoku: The Agriculture Minister’s revitalization of agribusiness has earned him praise. Backed by First Lady Lordina Mahama, his candidacy could sway middle-belt voters, though he remains the underdog.
Akwasi Oppong-Fosu: Also gaining traction is Akwasi Opong-Fosu, one of Ghana’s longest-serving District Chief Executives and a former Member of Parliament.
With ministerial experience in Local Government and Environment, Opong-Fosu is regarded as a technocrat who understands governance systems and institutional reform.
