Johnson Asiedu Nketia
The National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, is currently leading the party’s flagbearer race with 29 percent support among delegates, according to a new poll by Global InfoAnalytics.
The survey places Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, in second position with 19 percent, which reflects a sharp rise in support within a short period and narrows the gap with the NDC Chairman.
The poll, described as the first public measurement of delegate sentiment since discussions on a successor to President John Dramani Mahama began gaining traction, was conducted between March 31 and April 9, 2026. It sampled nearly 10,400 delegates across all 16 regions through telephone interviews.
According to the findings, the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, follows with 11 percent support, while the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, and Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang are tied at 8 percent each. Other potential contenders account for just 1 percent, while a significant 24 percent of delegates remain undecided.
The report noted that although Mr. Asiedu Nketia has been touring the country on what he describes as a “thank you” campaign, his lead has been gradually narrowing as Dr. Ato Forson gains traction, despite not officially declaring his candidacy.
Analysts say the Finance Minister’s 19 percent support, without a formal announcement, signals strong grassroots appeal and growing momentum within the party.
In hypothetical one-on-one matchups, Mr. Asiedu Nketia still maintains an edge, polling between 37 and 32 percent.
Regionally, Mr. Iddrisu dominates in the Northern Region with 35 percent support, while Mr. Nketia trails with 26 percent. In key swing regions – Greater Accra, Central, Eastern and Western – Johnson Asiedu Nketia records 28 percent, maintaining a competitive advantage over his closest rivals.
Despite the chairman’s nationwide engagements, observers indicate that his campaign has yet to decisively convert the large bloc of undecided delegates, leaving the race open.
The survey further highlighted that delegates prioritise competence over identity factors. About 74 percent cite performance as their top consideration, 53 percent prefer visionary leadership, and 35 percent value government experience. Youth and gender representation rank low, at 8 percent and 1 percent respectively.
With nearly a quarter of delegates yet to make up their minds, analysts conclude that the race remains fluid and could shift significantly in the months ahead.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah