The People’s National Convention (PNC) has officially endorsed John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), ahead of Ghana’s December 7, 2024, general elections. This move follows the disqualification of the PNC’s flagbearer, Bernard Mornah, from the presidential race.
The decision was made during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. According to the party’s National Chairman, Asaki Samson Awingobit, a majority of the party’s leadership supported the resolution to align with the NDC.
In an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu on Ahotor FM, the National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Asaki Sampson Awingobit, shared insights into recent developments within his party and broader political discussions.
According to him, the PNC held an executive meeting last Wednesday, during which they reiterated their openness to dialogue and collaboration. He explained that the party had initially scheduled a follow-up meeting for Monday to build consensus on key issues but later postponed it to Wednesday to allow more time for thorough deliberations.
Chairman Awingobit also revealed that a special committee had been set up to engage with both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The NDC, in their response, acknowledged their role as the main opposition party and expressed a strong belief in the PNC’s potential to implement policies aimed at rescuing Ghana from its current challenges.
The PNC leader further highlighted some of the NDC’s policy priorities, including their proposed “24-Hour Economy” plan, which they believe is the key to addressing Ghana’s pressing issues. He criticized the NPP, stating that they have lost their connection with the business community and failed to address the needs of the Ghanaian people. He emphasized that Ghanaians, particularly the youth, are yearning for job opportunities and innovative policies that will rebuild the country’s economy.
Chairman Awingobit concluded by stressing that the PNC remains committed to introducing initiatives that create jobs, support local businesses, and restore hope to the citizenry. He expressed optimism that with the right leadership and policies, Ghana’s future can be brightened.
“Nine days to the general elections, the PNC cannot remain neutral. We had 15 regional representatives for our NEC meeting today. After thorough deliberations, we collectively and by majority vote declared that the PNC will throw its support behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its presidential candidate, John Mahama,” he announced.
He emphasized that the decision is strategic, aiming to ensure the formation of a collaborative government led by the NDC with the support of the PNC.
Background to the Disqualification
The PNC’s original presidential candidate, Bernard Mornah, was disqualified from contesting the 2024 elections by the Electoral Commission (EC) on September 20, 2024. He was one of 11 aspirants, out of 24 who filed nominations, whose forms were deemed invalid. The EC cited errors in his nomination documents as the basis for the disqualification.
Mr. Mornah challenged the EC’s decision in both the High Court and the Supreme Court but ultimately lost, leaving the PNC without a candidate for the presidential race.
With this endorsement, the PNC joins the NDC’s growing coalition of support as the country prepares for a fiercely contested election. This alliance could play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape as Ghanaians head to the polls.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
