Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has raised questions about the motivations of key staff members of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who are contesting parliamentary seats ahead of the 2024 general elections.
According to Dr. Ofosu Ampofo, this move signals a lack of confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s presidential bid and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) chances of retaining power.
Speaking at the campaign launch of Bismark Tetteh Nyarko, the NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Upper Manya Krobo in the Eastern Region, Dr. Ofosu Ampofo pointed out that notable figures close to the Vice President—including his sister, his economic affairs advisor, and his spokesperson, Dr. Gideon Boako—are vying for seats in Parliament. He argued that this decision reflects the NPP’s concerns about the upcoming elections.
“How do people who are walking with the Vice President and working in his office, all of a sudden, change their minds and contest as MPs?” Ofosu Ampofo questioned.
He suggested that these actions indicate an internal recognition of the NPP’s uncertain electoral prospects. “If you truly believe your presidential candidate is going to win the election, why abandon your special position to seek a parliamentary seat? This is a clear indication that even those closest to Dr. Bawumia do not have confidence in his chances of becoming President.”
The former NDC Chairman further claimed that the NPP’s strategy of securing parliamentary positions is part of a broader attempt to maintain influence in the event they are voted into opposition. He asserted that the NPP is aware of the likelihood of an NDC victory in 2024, under the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama.
“The NPP itself knows that John Dramani Mahama will win the next elections, so they are looking for positions where they can remain relevant in opposition,” he concluded.