Ofosu-Ampofo drops NDC Chairman bid to focus on COCOBOD and Vice President advisory roles

Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has withdrawn from the party’s national chairmanship contest.

His supporters reportedly spearheaded the picking of the nomination forms on behalf and also paid for the filing fees on his behalf.

But in a statement issued on his behalf on Monday, November 9, Kojo Adu-Asare, a former Member of Parliament for Adentan and presidential staffer, said Mr Ofosu-Ampofo has expressed appreciation to the supporters.

But, he has decided against proceeding with his candidacy after careful consideration.

He described the gesture from the supporters as a remarkable demonstration of confidence in his leadership and said he was “deeply touched by this remarkable expression of love, confidence and support from the rank and file of the party.”

He noted that he considered the gesture a great honour.

The former NDC chairman explained that his decision was taken in the overriding interest of the party and his commitment to serving the country in other capacities.

He noted that President John Dramani Mahama had entrusted him with responsibilities as Political Advisor to Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Board Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board.

According to the statement, his role at COCOBOD includes providing leadership oversight for the ongoing restructuring of Ghana’s cocoa industry, while his advisory position supports the Office of the Vice President.

“These responsibilities are significant to the successful implementation of the government’s resetting agenda and the delivery of the promises made to the people of Ghana under the NDC mandate,” the statement said.

Mr Ofosu-Ampofo reaffirmed his commitment to the NDC, citing his 34 years of experience in party politics and governance.

He said he remained available and willing to place his wealth of experience and institutional knowledge at the disposal of the party whenever called upon.

He also congratulated newly elected constituency officers and urged party members and aspirants in the upcoming regional and national elections to maintain unity and mutual respect.

“The strength of the NDC lies in its collective experience, unity, institutional memory and shared commitment to its ideals,” the statement added.