John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has submitted his selection for a running mate to the party’s leadership.
A meeting of the Council of Elders is scheduled for March 7 to deliberate on Mahama’s choice and announce it thereafter.
Reports suggest that three top candidates, including Julius Debrah, Naana Opoku-Agyemang, and Awuah-Darko, are being considered for the position of Mahama’s running mate in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a prominent figure in Ghana’s academic and political spheres, known for her remarkable achievements and steadfast commitment to education, gender equality, and sustainable development. Born on November 22, 1951, in Cape Coast, Ghana, she has made significant contributions in various fields of public service, academia, and governance, leaving a lasting impact in each domain.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s academic journey is a testament to her passion for education and scholarship. She obtained her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in English and French from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana and later pursued her Master’s and Ph.D. in Literature from York University in Canada. Her career in academia flourished at the University of Cape Coast, where she not only imparted knowledge but also assumed transformative leadership roles. In 2008, she made history as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a Ghanaian university, a position that allowed her to advocate for quality education, research excellence, and gender equity within the university community and beyond.
Throughout her academic career, Professor Opoku-Agyemang played a pivotal role in initiating and implementing policies aimed at improving the educational landscape in Ghana. She championed various educational reforms and projects, advocating for accessible and inclusive education. Her efforts also focused on promoting literacy and encouraging girls to study science and mathematics, recognizing the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and societies.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s political journey began in July 2020 when she was selected as the running mate to John Mahama, the Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2020 Ghanaian general election. Her nomination was historic, as she became the first woman to be nominated for the vice-presidency by a major political party in Ghana. Although the NDC did not emerge victorious in the election, her candidacy marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s political history, highlighting the increasing recognition of women’s leadership in governance.
Beyond her academic and political endeavors, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is a passionate advocate for social issues, including women’s rights, children’s education, and environmental sustainability. She has actively participated in various conferences and platforms, both locally and internationally, where she has articulated her commitment to these causes. Her advocacy is driven by the belief that sustainable development can only be achieved through inclusive policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of all members of society.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang’s legacy is defined by her pioneering spirit, intellectual contributions, and ethical leadership. Her career reflects a deep-seated commitment to public service, with a focus on advancing educational excellence, advocating for gender equality, and contributing to Ghana’s sustainable development. As she continues to engage in public discourse and advocacy, her life’s work serves as an inspiration to many, especially women and young people who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Julius Debrah
Julius Debrah is a renowned Ghanaian politician celebrated for his substantial contributions to public service and governance in Ghana. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape, particularly within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), one of Ghana’s major political parties.
Born on June 17, 1966, in the Eastern Region of Ghana, Julius Debrah pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, Legon, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. His academic background laid a solid foundation for his entry into public service and his subsequent rise in the political arena.
Julius Debrah began his career in public service in local government, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Akuapim South District Assembly. His leadership in this role was marked by initiatives aimed at enhancing local governance and fostering community development.
His political career gained momentum when he was appointed as the Eastern Regional Minister in Ghana. In this role, Debrah focused on addressing regional challenges and promoting economic development within the Eastern Region.
Debrah’s reputation and contributions led to his appointment as the Greater Accra Regional Minister, overseeing Ghana’s most populous region. Here, he spearheaded the implementation of government policies and programs aimed at improving the living standards of residents.
In 2015, Julius Debrah reached a career milestone when he was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama as the Chief of Staff. In this capacity, he served as the President’s principal assistant, managing the staff of the Office of the President and ensuring the effective implementation of the President’s agenda. His tenure as Chief of Staff was characterized by his diplomatic approach to governance and his efforts to enhance efficiency within the presidency.
Julius Debrah is widely respected for his calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities. His approach to governance emphasizes inclusivity, consensus-building, and sustainable development. He is admired for his dedication to public service and his commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.
Throughout his career, Julius Debrah has made significant contributions to Ghana’s political and social development. His roles at various levels of government have enabled him to positively impact governance, regional development, and national policy implementation. Even after serving in high-profile positions, Debrah remains a respected figure in Ghanaian politics, known for his experience, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the country’s progress.
Kwame Awuah-Darko
Kwame Awuah-Darko is a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics and business, known for his leadership, strategic vision, and contributions to the country’s economic and political development. His diverse career has spanned both the private and public sectors, showcasing his expertise and commitment to Ghana’s advancement.
Born in Ghana, Kwame Awuah-Darko pursued higher education focusing on economics and finance, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. His academic background equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of global business and political governance.
Before entering politics, Awuah-Darko established himself in the business world, demonstrating entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. He has been involved in various ventures, contributing significantly to Ghana’s private sector development. His success is attributed to his innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
Transitioning into politics, Awuah-Darko has shown dedication to public service and a desire to leverage his expertise for national development. He is a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), where he has played a key role in shaping policy and strategy.
One of his notable contributions to public service was his tenure as the Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST) and later, the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). His leadership focused on operational efficiency, financial stability, and strategic investments, revitalizing these critical components of Ghana’s energy sector.
Under his management, BOST and TOR saw significant improvements, contributing to Ghana’s energy security and economic stability. His efforts were recognized for enhancing the country’s oil and gas industry.
Awuah-Darko’s legacy in Ghanaian public service and the business sector is marked by impactful leadership and transformative initiatives. Through his roles, he has contributed to Ghana’s economic landscape, fostering growth, and promoting sustainable development practices.
His work continues to inspire future generations, highlighting the potential for impactful leadership in both business and politics. Active in Ghanaian political and business circles, Kwame Awuah-Darko’s ongoing contributions are closely watched by many who admire his dedication to Ghana’s progress.
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