Perspective and the Politics of the NDC
By. Alexander Kukah
Integrity, unity, internal cohesion and effective leadership remain critical to sustaining the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) “Reset Agenda” as the party enters the second phase of its internal electoral process — the election of regional executives — following the successful completion of constituency elections, which have painted a picture of a grassroots-driven reset agenda.
The journey towards the final phase of the NDC’s internal elections reaches another significant milestone today, with delegates across all 16 regions going to the polls to elect regional executives who will be responsible for shaping the party’s regional strategies, strengthening its political structures and safeguarding its electoral fortunes ahead of the 2028 general elections.
The regional elections are not merely about filling executive positions. They represent a critical opportunity for the party to consolidate its 2024 electoral victory and position itself for an even stronger performance in 2028.
A fundamental question confronting delegates is whether the individuals seeking regional leadership positions are prepared to embrace and advance the vision of continuity under the Reset Agenda, while aligning themselves with the broader national policy direction of the government.
Equally important is the calibre, competence, integrity and political commitment of those seeking to occupy positions left vacant by some outgoing executives who have chosen not to contest at the constituency, regional and national levels.
There are growing concerns about the possibility of grassroots dissatisfaction following the party’s 2024 electoral victory. This sentiment could significantly influence the outcome of the regional elections, just as elements of it appeared to have been reflected in some constituency election results.
The party must therefore pay close attention to the concerns and expectations of its grassroots supporters, whose commitment, sacrifice and hard work remain central to its electoral success.
From a strategic and political perspective, the Ashanti and Eastern Regions stand out as key battlegrounds to watch in today’s elections. The outcomes in these two regions could have significant implications for the party’s organisational strength and its ability to expand its electoral fortunes in 2028.
The central question is whether delegates will vote for continuity or embrace a change in leadership. More importantly, will their choices produce the kind of leadership capable of winning additional parliamentary seats and increasing the party’s presidential votes in the next general elections?
The NDC must recognise that winning internal elections is only one part of the political process. Preserving party unity after the elections is equally important. In particular, the leadership emerging from the Ashanti and Eastern Regions must demonstrate the capacity to unite competing interests, rebuild trust and strengthen internal cohesion.
The party cannot afford to allow internal divisions, personal ambitions and factional interests to undermine the political machinery that contributed to its 2024 electoral victory.
Ultimately, sustaining the NDC’s “Big Push” requires more than political slogans. It demands integrity, hard work, inclusive leadership, unity, internal cohesion and an unwavering commitment to the party’s collective interests.
The regional elections must therefore serve as a foundation for renewal, reconciliation and strategic repositioning, rather than a source of division.
As the NDC looks towards 2028, the message must be clear: the party’s strength lies not only in the leadership it elects but also in its ability to remain united, connected to the grassroots and committed to delivering on the expectations of Ghanaians.
The real test of the regional elections is not simply who wins, but whether the party emerges stronger, more united and better prepared for the political battles ahead.