Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, Dr. Alidu Seidu, has suggested that John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), should consider selecting an Akan as his running mate for the 2024 election.
Dr. Seidu emphasised the importance of this suggestion, citing the significant influence of Akan votes and their potential contribution to the NDC’s success in the 2024 election.
During 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 northern regions traditionally support the NDC, relying solely on these areas might pose challenges in securing victory in the upcoming 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 told Evans Mensah.
Dr. Alidu Seidu, Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, has advised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to carefully consider a running mate for John Dramani Mahama, who could seamlessly assume leadership after Mr. Mahama’s potential one-term tenure if he secures victory in the upcoming 2024 election.
Dr. Seidu’s remarks come amid growing pressure on Mr. Mahama to announce his choice for a running mate. This pressure has intensified, with traditional leaders in the Bono and Western North regions expressing their preferences during Mr. Mahama’s recent campaign tour.
Similarly, youth groups in the Volta and Oti regions, NDC strongholds, are urging the former President to select a running mate from their regions.
Dr. Seidu explained that the lobbying by traditional rulers may stem from the expectation that their respective regions would benefit significantly in terms of development.
Additionally, he noted that individuals being lobbied may find it appropriate to engage with traditional leaders due to the influence and respect they command.
In response to the growing anticipation, Mr. Mahama has stated that the chosen candidate for the running mate position will be announced in February 2024.
“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.