Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of Ghana’s ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), has delivered a clear message to party members: prioritize governance and shelve any presidential ambitions for 2028. Speaking on Accra 100.5 FM, Nketia emphasized the critical need for the NDC to focus on fulfilling the mandate given to them by the Ghanaian people in the December 2024 elections. He warned that premature jostling for leadership positions could divert attention from the crucial task of governance and undermine the progress expected under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. Nketia’s message underscores the importance of unity and collective effort within the party to deliver on their promises and secure the nation’s future.
Nketia’s concern stems from the potential disruption that internal competition for the 2028 flagbearer position could create. He believes that such premature maneuvering could fracture the party’s focus and hinder its ability to effectively address the challenges facing the nation. He argued that the party’s success is intrinsically linked to President Mahama’s success, and any internal divisions could jeopardize both. By urging party members to concentrate on the present task of governing, Nketia aims to create a cohesive and unified front dedicated to achieving the NDC’s goals for the country.
The NDC chairman stressed that internal party contests have their place and time, but that time is not now. He reassured members that the party would eventually open nominations for leadership positions, including the flagbearer role, when the time was appropriate. However, the current priority, he emphasized, is to deliver on the promises made to the Ghanaian people. Nketia’s message reinforces the idea that personal ambitions should be secondary to the collective responsibility of serving the nation.
Nketia framed the NDC’s mission as one of national restoration, citing the need to address what he described as the “rot” left behind by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. He argued that a successful track record in government would not only benefit the country but also pave the way for a smoother and more unified process of choosing a flagbearer for the 2028 elections. He implied that a strong performance would naturally elevate deserving candidates and minimize internal strife.
Nketia’s call for unity and focus echoes a broader theme of prioritizing national interest over individual ambition. He believes that a successful government will inevitably create a positive environment for future leadership transitions. By concentrating on delivering tangible results for the Ghanaian people, the NDC, according to Nketia, can solidify its position as a responsible and effective governing party, thereby enhancing its prospects in future elections.
In essence, Nketia’s message to the NDC is a call for disciplined pragmatism. He emphasizes the importance of concentrating on the immediate task of governance, delivering on promises, and restoring the nation’s well-being. He believes that by prioritizing these core responsibilities, the party will not only serve the best interests of Ghana but also create a more favorable environment for future leadership transitions, including the selection of a flagbearer for the 2028 elections. His message underscores the importance of unity, collective effort, and a commitment to national progress above personal political aspirations.
