Political Science Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Legon Dr Kwame Asah-Asante says the 2024 flagbearer ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is John Dramani Mahama’s for the taking.
He said so far as the former president is in the race, the other contenders would not have any chance of besting him.
Mr Mahama on Wednesday, February 22, when nominations opened for the May 13 Presidential Primary, picked forms to lead the NDC into yet another elections, to be his fourth in a row.
The forms were picked on his behalf by former challenger Professor Joshua Alabi, who assured other contenders of a level-playing competition.
“I am assuring other contestants that everything is going to be smooth, we love all of them, and at the end of it we are going to invite all of them for victory.”
Speaking on Ghana Tonight on TV3 on Wednesday, Dr Asah-Asante said any aspirant who rides on the ticket of the NDC can only campaign on the legacies of three leaders – Jerry John Rawlings, Professor John Evans Atta Mills – both deceased – and John Dramani Mahama.
“And if Mahama is one of the contestants, then I am afraid none of them can rub shoulders with [John] Mahama.
“It is obviously clear that Mahama is miles away from those who are going to contest with him. There are no doubts about that.”
He, however, said the contenders also have their achievements in their own rights but since politics is a referendum of one’s work in addition to the contest of ideas, they have no works to show for in the party.
John Mahama is miles ahead with his experience. Other candidates don't have as much to offer and will struggle to send out their messages – Dr Asah Asante, Political Scientist#GhanaTonight pic.twitter.com/YgfxEYVEf3
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) February 23, 2023
So far, three aspirants have picked forms for the primary.
Aside the former President, who is tipped to win the votes, Kojo Bonsu and Ernest Kwaku Kobeah have also gone for the forms.
Close contender Dr Kwabena Duffour is expected to pick his forms on Thursday, Febuary 23.