The National Democratic Congress (NDC) may have a better chance of winning the 2024 elections if its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, chooses an Akan as his running mate, according to a political scientist.
Dr. Alidu Seidu, Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, said that the NDC should not rely only on its traditional strongholds in the Volta, Oti, and northern regions, but also seek to attract more Akan votes.
He said, “So, I think a lot of people are calling for him to look beyond the Volta region and go to maybe an Akan-dominated region. The running mate should be an Akan either from the Ashanti region or any of the Akan-speaking regions.”
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Dr. Seidu also pointed out that Mahama’s running mate should be someone who can take over the leadership of the party and the country in case Mahama wins and serves his last term.
The lecturer made these comments on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, December 14, in response to the pressure on Mahama to announce his running mate.
Lobbying by traditional leaders
He observed that some traditional leaders from various regions have been lobbying for their candidates to be considered, hoping that it would bring more development to their areas.
Dr. Seidu added that some candidates may also use traditional rulers as channels of lobbying because of their respect and influence.
Mahama has said that he will consult with the Functional Executive Committee and Council of Elders of the NDC before making his decision on his running mate.
The former President will announce his choice in February 2024.
Mahama, who ran with Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang in the 2020 election, has not ruled out the possibility of keeping her as his running mate, although some people have called for a change.
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