Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has withdrawn from the party’s upcoming national chairmanship election, leaving four other aspirants to battle for the position.
His decision comes despite strong backing from supporters across all 16 regions, who had purchased nomination forms and paid filing fees on his behalf in anticipation of his return to the party’s top administrative position.
In a statement announcing his decision, Ofosu-Ampofo said he would not proceed with his candidature, explaining that his decision was informed by the overriding interest of the party and his commitment to serving in other capacities.
He expressed appreciation to party members and supporters who demonstrated confidence in his leadership and contributed towards his anticipated campaign.
The former NDC chairman currently serves as Political Advisor to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Board Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
According to the statement, the two positions were entrusted to him by President John Dramani Mahama and require his full attention, particularly as the government pursues its resetting agenda and reforms in the cocoa industry.
Ofosu-Ampofo pledged to continue discharging his responsibilities with dedication, integrity and a sense of duty, while making his 34 years of experience in party politics and governance available to the NDC.
He also appealed to party members and aspirants to prioritise unity, mutual respect and the collective interest of the party throughout the ongoing internal electoral process.
His withdrawal leaves four contenders in the race for the NDC national chairmanship.
They are former Odododiodio MP Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, former Local Government Minister Akwasi Oppong-Fosu, incumbent National Vice Chairman Chief Sofo Azorka and former Klottey Korle MP Nii Armah Ashitey.
Ofosu-Ampofo served as NDC National Chairman from 2018 to 2022 before losing his re-election bid to Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
The party is expected to close nominations for its national executive elections on Monday, November 9, 2026.
