Former Minister for Local Government and Rural Development Akwasi Opong-Fosu has urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to focus on building strong internal institutions rather than allowing leadership contests to become personality-driven.
Speaking on TalkTime with Kwesi Pratt Jnr on Pan African Television, Opong-Fosu said leadership positions within the party should be viewed as part of a democratic process rather than contests centred on individuals.
“Once nominations are announced, all positions become vacant. We do not have to make contesting positions within political parties a personality issue. That is one of the challenges. We need to build political systems that outlast personalities.”
His comments come amid growing speculation over who may contest the NDC’s national chairmanship when nominations eventually open.
Although his own name has been mentioned in discussions, Opong-Fosu said approaches from various groups within the party had prompted consultations rather than a personal campaign for the position.
He maintained that the party’s institutional strength should remain the priority regardless of who eventually assumes office.
Leadership as service
Reflecting on his political career, Opong-Fosu said his approach to public office has always been guided by service rather than personal ambition.
He cautioned against candidates assuming they deserve leadership positions simply because of their experience or qualifications.
“You can have all the qualities, you can have all the competencies, but when you elect yourself, thinking that you are the most qualified to be in a particular position, it is a bit presumptuous for me.”
He added that he is continuing consultations with senior party leaders, including President John Dramani Mahama, as well as grassroots members before deciding whether to contest.
Focus on party unity
Opong-Fosu’s remarks come as discussions over the NDC’s future leadership continue within the party.
While the NDC has yet to announce a timetable for national chairmanship nominations, conversations around potential candidates have intensified across regional and constituency structures.
His comments emphasised the importance of preserving party unity and ensuring that leadership transitions strengthen, rather than divide, the organisation.
