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On May 13, 2023, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) re-elected former President John Dramani Mahama as their candidate to lead the party’s red, green, black, and white flag with the imposing eagle in the crucial 2024 polls. John Mahama had previously served as a running mate to the late Professor John Evans Atta Mills, and together, they secured victory for the party after two unsuccessful attempts. It is worth mentioning that the ‘Swedru Declaration’ led Prof. Mills to choose ABK Amidu as his running mate in the 2000 election and Muhammad Mumuni in 2004. In the 2008 election, Prof. Mills selected the former President, who ultimately secured victory for the party.
Over the years, it has become an unwritten tradition for the frontrunners of the NDC to change their vice-presidential candidate, a prerogative solely held by the flag bearer. This debate has ignited fiery conversations within the NDC and the public as the party intensifies preparations to regain political power.
The decision on whether the former educationist, Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, will continue as the vice-presidential candidate poses a challenging task for John Mahama in the coming months. While some supporters advocate for her retention, others argue for fresh faces and new ideas to rejuvenate the party and connect with a broader demographic.
Supporters of potential running mates have already begun lobbying for their favorites on social media platforms. Names like Dr. Zanetor Rawlings, Julius Debrah, Awuah Darko, Prof. Joshua Alabi, and Cassiel Ato Forson are being mentioned as possible replacements.
Despite successfully leading the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Prof. Agyemang’s 2020 campaign received backlash, with some believing the need for a more aggressive running mate to balance John Mahama’s demeanor. However, she is respected for her trustworthiness, conviction, and appeal to gender advocates and academia.
The NDC leadership is taking note of party members and the public’s expressions while considering the running mate for John Mahama in the 2024 elections campaign. The goal remains to secure victory and positively change Ghanaians’ lives.
As the days pass and the elections draw nearer, the NDC leadership faces the weighty internal dialogue and decision-making task. Hopefully, with time, a consensus will be reached, and the NDC will emerge united with a running mate who embodies the party’s vision and resonates with the aspirations of the Ghanaian people. Until then, the debate will continue, and social media platforms will remain abuzz with fervent supporters advocating for their preferred running mate potentials.
Ultimately, the collective voice and choice of the NDC will shape its future and determine the path to success in the 2024 elections.
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Source: Omanghana.com
