Why Ofosu-Ampofo Has Withdrawn From NDC Chairmanship Race Despite Support From All 16 Regions

According to a report by GhanaWeb on Monday, November 9, 2026, former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has officially withdrawn from the party’s upcoming national chairmanship race, despite receiving considerable support from party members across all 16 regions of Ghana.

His decision has attracted attention within the NDC, particularly because some supporters had already purchased his nomination forms and paid the required filing fees on his behalf in anticipation of his return to the party’s top organisational position.

However, the former NDC chairman has explained that his decision was influenced by his commitment to serving the party and the country through his existing responsibilities in government.

In a statement issued on his behalf by former Adentan Member of Parliament and Presidential Staffer Kojo Adu-Asare, Ofosu-Ampofo expressed appreciation to the party members who demonstrated confidence in his leadership and encouraged him to contest the position.

He described the support from the grassroots as a remarkable expression of love, confidence and commitment, adding that he was deeply touched by the gesture.

Despite the encouragement, he said he had decided not to proceed with his participation in the chairmanship contest after careful consideration.

The statement explained that President John Dramani Mahama had entrusted him with two important responsibilities that require his attention and dedication.

Ofosu-Ampofo currently serves as Political Advisor to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. He also occupies the position of Board Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), where he provides leadership oversight for the ongoing restructuring of Ghana’s cocoa industry.

According to the statement, these responsibilities are important to the government’s resetting agenda and its commitment to delivering on promises made to Ghanaians.

The former NDC chairman therefore believes that concentrating on these assignments is the appropriate decision at this stage, rather than pursuing another leadership position within the party.

He has consequently pledged to continue discharging his responsibilities with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of duty.

Interestingly, Ofosu-Ampofo’s withdrawal does not mean he is distancing himself from the NDC. Instead, he has reaffirmed his commitment to the party, emphasising that his experience and knowledge remain available whenever his services are required.

He also highlighted his 34 years of experience in party politics and governance, expressing his willingness to contribute to the party’s development and future electoral fortunes.

Additionally, he congratulated newly elected constituency executives and encouraged party members seeking regional and national executive positions to conduct themselves with unity and mutual respect.

Ofosu-Ampofo previously served as NDC National Chairman from 2018 to 2022 before losing his re-election bid to Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who currently occupies the position.

His withdrawal leaves four prominent contenders in the race. They are former Odododiodio MP Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, former Local Government Minister Akwasi Oppong-Fosu, incumbent National Vice Chairman Chief Sofo Azorka and former Klottey Korle MP Nii Armah Ashitey.

The NDC is expected to hold its national executive elections on December 19, 2026.

His decision has therefore become one of the major talking points surrounding the party’s upcoming internal elections, especially considering the level of support he received before announcing his withdrawal.

Ultimately, Ofosu-Ampofo’s explanation suggests that his decision is largely driven by his existing government appointments and his desire to concentrate on the responsibilities entrusted to him by President Mahama.

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