The Fight for Asiedu Nketiah’s Seat Is Getting Serious, See the Four Names Involved

The battle to take over from Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is becoming one of the major political contests within the governing party, with four experienced politicians now in the race for the powerful position.

Asiedu Nketiah, popularly known as General Mosquito, has decided not to seek another term after serving as the party’s National Chairman since December 2022. His decision has opened the door for other leading figures to compete for a position that will play an important role in shaping the NDC’s future.

The four men who submitted their nomination forms are Sofo Azorka, Akwasi Opong-Fosu, Nii Armah Ashietey and Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye.

The race has attracted attention because the candidates come from different political backgrounds and have different experiences within the party. Whoever wins will inherit the responsibility of managing the NDC’s internal affairs, strengthening its grassroots structures and helping maintain unity as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.

One of the most talked-about candidates is Chief Sofo Azorka, whose political journey has been closely linked to the NDC’s grassroots mobilisation. He is known as the founder of the Azorka Boys, a pro-NDC group that has faced accusations of involvement in political violence. Azorka has previously rejected the description of the group as a vigilante organisation. He has also served as Northern Regional Chairman and First National Vice Chairman, giving him years of experience in the party’s leadership.

Another candidate is Dr Akwasi Opong-Fosu, a former MP for Amenfi East and former Minister for Local Government and Rural Development. He has also served as Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation. His experience in public administration and government is likely to be a key part of his campaign as he seeks to convince delegates that he can lead the party.

Nii Armah Ashietey is also seeking the position. He is a lawyer and former MP for Korle Klottey. He previously served as Greater Accra Regional Minister and Minister for Employment and Labour Relations under the Mahama administration. His years in Parliament and government have made him a familiar figure in the NDC’s political circles.

The fourth candidate, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, is a former MP for Odododiodio and former Minister for Youth and Sports. Before entering active politics, he built a career in sports journalism. His experience in Parliament and government gives him another route through which he hopes to win the confidence of party delegates.

There was initially a fifth name in the contest: former National Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo. However, he withdrew after the nomination process, leaving the four candidates who filed to contest the position.

The stakes are high because the next chairman will have to maintain unity among different groups within the NDC while helping the party manage its responsibilities as the governing party. The winner will also face the task of keeping the party’s structures active ahead of the 2028 elections.