Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, Dr. Alidu Seidu, has put forth a suggestion that the opposition National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, should contemplate selecting an Akan as his running mate for the 2024 election.
He explained that this is necessary “because of the dominance of the Akan votes and the significant contribution the Akan vote can make to the NDC’s victory in 2024 election.”
In an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, December 14, Dr. Seidu highlighted that while the Volta region, Oti region, and the five regions of the north have consistently been the stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), relying solely on votes from these regions would pose a challenge for the party to secure victory in an election.
“So, I think a lot of people are calling for him to look beyond the Volta region and go to maybe an Akan-dominated region. The running mate should be an Akan either from the Ashanti region or any of the Akan-speaking regions,” he said.
Dr. Seidu has emphasized the importance for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to consider a running mate who can seamlessly continue in a leadership role, especially since John Dramani Mahama would have only one term left if he emerges victorious in the polls.
His comments come amid increasing pressure on Mr. Mahama to announce his running mate. During Mr. Mahama’s campaign tour in the Bono and Western North regions, traditional leaders made suggestions regarding potential running mates. Additionally, NDC youth groups in the Volta and Oti regions have expressed their desire for the running mate to come from the NDC stronghold.
Dr. Seidu noted that the lobbying by traditional rulers might be rooted in the expectation that their regions would benefit in terms of development. He also acknowledged that individuals being lobbied for might find it appropriate to engage with traditional rulers due to the respect they command.
Despite the lobbying, John Dramani Mahama has stated that the decision on the running mate will be made in February 2024, adding a timeline to the anticipation surrounding the selection.
“I don’t choose a running mate alone. Myself, together with the Functional Executive Committee and Council of Elders, pick from a list and decide on one person,” he pointed out.
He urged those appealing for their preferred candidates to exercise restraint.
“I would pray for your patience, as we all know that God grants the King and the NDC doesn’t discriminate.”
Mr Mahama was partnered by Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang in the 2020 election, and there are suggestions she may be retained, although others want to see a new face.