Inside the National Democratic Congress (NDC), political circles are abuzz with discussions about potential successors to President John Dramani Mahama, who will be constitutionally barred from seeking another term after 2028. While many familiar names have dominated media speculation, a new contender is quietly gaining traction — the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku.
Though the party’s National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, and MPs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings have been widely cited as frontrunners, insiders reveal that factions within the NDC are rallying behind Opoku. Known for his diligent work ethic and grassroots appeal, Opoku is reportedly being groomed as a serious candidate, with key party influencers and senior government officials mobilizing support discreetly.
The push for Opoku is being managed quietly to avoid premature hype that could derail the momentum. Sources say that consultation with party stakeholders is well underway, reflecting a strategic effort to build a robust campaign infrastructure across regions without attracting undue attention.
Meanwhile, a recent survey by Global InfoAnalytics adds an interesting dimension to the unfolding leadership contest. The research firm’s poll shows Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu leading the pack with 27% of respondents backing him as the party’s preferred 2028 flagbearer, narrowly ahead of National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah at 26%. Finance Minister Forson follows with 22%, while Chief of Staff Debrah and MP Ablakwa hold 11% and 8% respectively. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings trails with 4%, and other candidates share the remaining 3%.
These survey results highlight a highly competitive and fragmented race within the NDC, underscoring the uncertainty and fluidity as the party prepares for the post-Mahama era. Yet, the rising but less publicized support for Eric Opoku suggests that the contest may be more open-ended than previously perceived, with fresh contenders challenging established figures for the party’s top ticket.
As the NDC navigates this crucial transition, the coming months will be decisive in shaping who ultimately emerges as the party’s standard-bearer to lead the charge in the 2028 general elections.
