John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has been urged to consider an Akan as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 elections.
Dr. Alidu Seidu, Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, who made the suggestion emphasized the importance of tapping into Akan votes and their potential contribution to the NDC’s success in the elections.
According to Dr. Seidu, although traditionally, the Volta region, Oti region, and the northern regions have been strongholds for the NDC, relying solely on these areas might not be sufficient for victory.
He stated, “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.”
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, December 14, Dr. Seidu stressed the importance of selecting a running mate who could seamlessly continue in leadership, especially considering that John Dramani Mahama would have just one term left if elected.
Addressing the ongoing pressure for Mahama to announce his running mate, Dr. Seidu acknowledged lobbying efforts from traditional leaders in various regions, attributing it to the hope for increased development in their respective areas.
He also noted that candidates being considered may find it appropriate to lobby through traditional rulers due to the respect they command.
Mahama has assured that the selection process for his running mate would involve collaboration with the Functional Executive Committee and Council of Elders.
The decision is expected to be made in February 2024.
Mahama, who was accompanied by Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang in the 2020 election, has not ruled out the possibility of retaining her as his running mate, although there are calls for a fresh face in the role.