Oppong-Fosu declares NDC national chairmanship bid, outlines three-point vision

Dr Akwasi Oppong-Fosu, a former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, has formally declared his intention to contest the National Chairmanship position of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), unveiling a three-point vision aimed at repositioning the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The Declaration

Dr Oppong-Fosu, who also served as a Minister of State and held key positions in the NDC administration under former President John Dramani Mahama, made the announcement at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, where he outlined his agenda for the party’s future.

The former Minister, who has been a long-serving member of the NDC and held various leadership roles at both the regional and national levels, said his decision to contest was informed by a deep commitment to strengthening the party’s internal structures and ensuring it remains a formidable force in Ghanaian politics.

The Three-Point Vision

Dr Oppong-Fosu’s three-point vision focuses on party unity, grassroots empowerment and electoral victory.

1. Party Unity and Reconciliation

The former Minister said his first priority would be to heal divisions within the NDC and foster a sense of belonging among all members, regardless of their regional, ethnic or factional affiliations. He noted that internal disunity has been a recurring challenge for the party and pledged to build a more inclusive and cohesive organisation.

“We cannot win elections when we are divided. My leadership will prioritise reconciliation and ensure that every member of the party feels valued and heard,” he said.

1. Grassroots Empowerment

Dr Oppong-Fosu said his second priority would be to strengthen the party’s grassroots structures by ensuring that branch and constituency-level executives are properly resourced, trained and motivated. He emphasised that the NDC’s strength lies in its grassroots base and that neglecting the base would be detrimental to the party’s electoral fortunes.

He pledged to introduce a comprehensive capacity-building programme for party executives at all levels and to ensure that resources are equitably distributed across all regions and constituencies.

1. Electoral Victory in 2028

The third pillar of his vision, he said, is to lead the NDC to a decisive victory in the 2028 general elections. Dr Oppong-Fosu said this would require strategic planning, effective communication, and a united front against the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He called on party members to support his bid, promising to run an issue-based campaign that would focus on the needs and aspirations of ordinary Ghanaians.

Background

Dr Akwasi Oppong-Fosu is a veteran politician and public servant who has held several key positions in Ghana’s public service. He served as the Municipal Chief Executive for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) during the Jerry John Rawlings administration and later as a Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development.

Under the NDC government led by President John Dramani Mahama, he was appointed Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, where he played a key role in implementing decentralisation policies and local governance reforms.

He also served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to India and was a presidential staffer in the Mills administration.

The NDC is scheduled to hold its national executive elections later this year, with several aspirants expected to contest various positions, including the National Chairmanship. The current National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, is expected to seek re-election, though his tenure has been marked by internal disputes and legal challenges.

Political Context

The NDC, currently in government under President John Dramani Mahama, is preparing for its internal elections as it seeks to consolidate its hold on power and prepare for the 2028 polls. The party has faced internal tensions in recent years, with various factions vying for control and influence.

Dr Oppong-Fosu’s entry into the race is expected to intensify the contest, as he is seen as a seasoned politician with a strong track record in public service and party administration.

Supporters of the former Minister have welcomed his decision, describing him as a unifier and a leader with the experience and integrity to lead the party.

“Dr Oppong-Fosu is someone who has served this party faithfully for decades. He understands the challenges we face, and he has the vision to lead us to victory in 2028,” said a party supporter who attended the declaration.

What’s Next

Dr Oppong-Fosu said he would soon begin a nationwide tour to engage party executives, grassroots members and other stakeholders as part of his campaign. He urged all party members to participate in the upcoming internal elections and to conduct themselves with decorum and respect for one another.

“I am not just seeking a position; I am seeking a mandate to serve. Together, we can build a stronger, more united NDC that will deliver victory in 2028 and prosperity for all Ghanaians,” he said.

The NDC’s national executive elections are expected to be held in the coming months, with the exact date yet to be announced by the party’s National Executive Committee.