The Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has stated that President John Dramani Mahama will have the biggest say in who emerges as the party’s next flagbearer.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM, Gbande said Mahama’s influence within the NDC is unmatched and will shape the party’s future leadership.
“President Mahama will have about 80 percent influence in who becomes the flagbearer of the NDC. Whether you like it or not,” he stated.
Gbande explained the NDC’s order of command, saying that while the National Chairman is the second most authoritative individual and the General Secretary leads the party administratively, Mahama remains the ultimate figure of influence.
He added that President Mahama comes to say he is supporting someone, that is the person the members will support.
Mr. Gbande likened that to doing something out of obligation if the National Chairman asked him to do it.
The Deputy General Secretary also raised concerns about inactivity at the grassroots following the last election.
According to him, neglecting party activities at the base risks breeding discontentment, disenchantment and pressure among supporters.
Gbande urged the leadership to sustain engagement at the grassroots by organizing activities to keep the party’s base vibrant.
He specifically mentioned Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, calling on him to play a more active role outside the Jubilee House.
“I have been on his neck as a Chief of Staff that he should leave the Jubilee House, leave the president, let’s go to the regions and do stakeholder engagements. Let’s supervise what the appointees are doing. Are they really implementing government policy?” Gbande stressed.
