Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has officially withdrawn from the party’s upcoming national chairmanship contest, ending speculation about his possible return to the position.
The former NDC chairman explained that his decision followed careful consideration and consultations, stressing that he intends to concentrate on his current responsibilities in government and continue serving the party in other capacities.
His withdrawal comes despite strong indications that he was preparing to contest the position, with supporters from all 16 regions of Ghana reportedly purchasing nomination forms and paying the required filing fees on his behalf.
In a statement announcing his decision, Ofosu-Ampofo expressed appreciation to party supporters for their confidence in his leadership but said he had chosen not to proceed with his candidature in the overall interest of the NDC.
According to the statement, his decision reflects his commitment to serving both the party and the country through other important responsibilities.
Mahama Gives Ofosu-Ampofo Two Key Government Responsibilities
The statement further disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama had entrusted the former NDC National Chairman with two significant assignments within the government, which require his full attention.
Ofosu-Ampofo currently serves as Political Advisor to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
In his capacity as COCOBOD Board Chairman, he provides oversight for the ongoing restructuring of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
The statement indicated that these responsibilities are important to the successful implementation of the government’s reset agenda and the fulfilment of its development promises to Ghanaians.
Ofosu-Ampofo has therefore pledged to discharge his duties with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.
Former NDC Chairman Reaffirms Commitment to Party
Despite stepping aside from the national chairmanship contest, Ofosu-Ampofo has reaffirmed his loyalty and commitment to the NDC.
He indicated that his 34 years of experience in party politics and public administration remain valuable resources that he is willing to make available to support the party’s growth and development.
He also appealed to party members, national executive aspirants and other stakeholders to prioritise unity, discipline and mutual respect throughout the ongoing internal electoral process.
The former chairman stressed that the NDC’s strength lies in its collective experience, institutional memory, unity and commitment to the party’s founding principles.
Four Aspirants Remain in NDC National Chairmanship Race
Ofosu-Ampofo’s decision to withdraw leaves four prominent party figures in the contest for the position of NDC National Chairman.
The remaining aspirants include:
- Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye – Former Member of Parliament for Odododiodioo.
- Akwasi Oppong-Fosu – Former Minister for Local Government.
- Chief Sofo Azorka – Incumbent National Vice Chairman of the NDC.
- Nii Armah Ashitey – Former Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle.
The NDC is expected to close nominations for its national executive elections on Monday, November 9, 2026, as preparations intensify for the party’s internal elections.
Ofosu-Ampofo’s Previous Leadership of the NDC
Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo served as National Chairman of the NDC from 2018 to 2022.
He lost his re-election bid in 2022 to Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who subsequently became the party’s National Chairman.
His latest decision not to contest marks another significant development in the NDC’s preparations to elect its next national leadership, while also highlighting the political responsibilities he continues to hold within the Mahama administration.
Source: newsthemegh.com