The outcome of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency executive elections in Tema West has highlighted the role of grassroots delegates in determining the party’s leadership and shaping its preparations for the 2028 general elections.
The elections, held on October 25, 2026, saw Alhaji Mohammed Issah retain his position as constituency chairman after polling 1,149 votes, ahead of his closest contender, Jasper Midey, who secured 956 votes. Eleven ballots were rejected, according to a report by the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
The results also saw several other party members elected to executive positions, giving the constituency a leadership team tasked with organising the party, mobilising supporters and consolidating its electoral gains.
Chris Asher Jnr, a member of the NDC National Communications Team, believes the outcome reflects the willingness of grassroots delegates to exercise their independent judgement in choosing leaders they consider capable of advancing the party’s interests.
According to him, the decision to retain some executives while electing new leaders sends a message that party members are prepared to support renewal and change where they consider it necessary.
He views the outcome as an indication that the NDC’s grassroots structures remain central to determining the direction of the party and selecting individuals to occupy leadership positions.
Grassroots choices and party renewal
Mr Asher Jnr believes the elections demonstrate that the party’s internal democratic processes can provide opportunities for both experienced executives and new entrants to contribute to its development.
He said the choices made by delegates should serve as a reminder to party leaders and members that leadership positions must be supported by commitment, hard work and service to the party.
He expressed optimism that the NDC could draw on the experience and abilities of its wider membership to fill leadership gaps and prepare qualified individuals for responsibilities at various levels of government.
He also stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among party members following the elections, arguing that the successful functioning of the party depends on the collective efforts of its executives, grassroots supporters and other stakeholders.
Tema West’s changing political landscape
The internal elections come against the backdrop of a significant change in Tema West’s parliamentary representation following the 2024 general elections.
The NDC made history by winning the parliamentary seat for the first time under the Fourth Republic, ending the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) longstanding hold on the constituency.
The NDC’s James Enu secured 49,225 votes, representing 64.06 per cent of the valid votes, while the NPP’s Dennis Amfo-Sefah obtained 27,618 votes, representing 35.94 per cent. The result marked a major shift in the constituency’s political landscape.
For the NDC, the victory created an opportunity to strengthen its presence in Tema West. It also increased the importance of effective constituency organisation, sustained engagement with residents and coordination between elected representatives and party structures.
The NPP, meanwhile, faces the task of rebuilding its support and reconnecting with voters following the defeat.
Against this background, the selection of constituency executives has implications beyond internal party administration. The new leadership will be expected to help organise the party, maintain communication with supporters and prepare for future electoral contests.
Message to MPs and government appointees
Mr Asher Jnr believes the outcome of the elections should also serve as a reminder to Members of Parliament and government appointees to remain attentive to the needs of citizens and the interests of the party.
He called on political officeholders to exercise caution in their conduct and place national development and the collective interest above personal considerations.
He argued that the success of President John Dramani Mahama’s reset agenda would depend, in part, on the commitment of public officials to their responsibilities and their willingness to support the broader national development agenda.
He further maintained that party members entrusted with leadership positions at the constituency, regional and national levels must demonstrate accountability, dedication and a clear understanding of the expectations of the people they serve.
Looking ahead to 2028
As the NDC begins a new phase of internal organisation following the constituency elections, the focus will shift to how the newly elected executives work together to strengthen the party’s grassroots structures.
For Tema West, the challenge will be to maintain organisational cohesion, sustain engagement with constituents and build on the momentum generated by the party’s 2024 parliamentary victory.
Mr Asher Jnr remains optimistic that the NDC can draw on the experience of its existing leadership and the contributions of newly elected executives to prepare for future political contests.
The elections have reaffirmed the importance of grassroots participation in the party’s internal affairs. Whether the choices made by delegates translate into stronger organisation and effective representation will depend on the ability of the new executives to work together and fulfil their responsibilities.
As the 2028 general elections approach, the performance of the party’s constituency structures will remain an important part of the broader political contest in Tema West.