Four-time flagbearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Dr Edward Mahama, has been reluctant to confirm reports he would not contest the flagbearership a fifth time.
Dr Mahama has however told Joy FM the party’s flagbearer position is open to members who want to contest when the party goes to congress.
The flagbearer is already calling for early congress.
Joy News sources say Dr. Mahama officially announced at the party’s meeting on Friday that he would not contest the flagbearership.
It is not clear if he was pressured to take the decision as some members have sought to blame him for the PNC’s misfortunes at the polls.
But speaking to Joy News’ Sampson Ladi Ayenini, Dr Mahama said comments suggesting he is giving up the position are speculative.
Asked why he would not confirm or deny the reports, the flagbearer responded: “I live a day at a time,†and would want congress to decide.
General Secretary of the PNC, Benard Mornarh, has however confirmed to Joy News Dr Mahama has hinted giving up his presidential ambition.
“Dr Mahama is not available for election 2012,” Mr Mornarh told Joy News Editor Matilda Asante.
He played down speculations that the flagbearer was prevailed upon by some high-ranking members of the party to step down.
Reports were rife during the run-up to the 2008 presidential election that Dr Mahama was having troubles with some party members including former Member of Parliament (MP) for Zibilla, John Ndebugri.
Dr Mahama has however hinted that although he is no longer interested in leading the party to polls, he would be available for other party duties.
Story by Fiifi Koomson