NDC Council of Elders orders immediate end to premature presidential campaigns within the party

The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has directed all party members, groups, and interest blocs to immediately stop any form of presidential campaign activity, warning that no such exercise has been sanctioned under the party’s constitution.

The directive was issued in a statement released on Thursday, May 29, 2026, following a meeting between the Council and President John Dramani Mahama, who serves as both President of Ghana and leader of the ruling NDC.

According to the Council, it has become increasingly concerned about reports of premature presidential campaign activities being undertaken by individuals and groups within the party. The Council noted that these activities have generated anxiety among party members and sections of the public.

The statement stressed that the NDC’s current priority is governance and the successful implementation of its mandate to improve the lives of Ghanaians.

“At this critical stage of national reconstruction and renewal, every member of the Party is expected to devote his or her energies, resources, and commitment to supporting the Government’s efforts to reset the country and improve the lives of Ghanaians,” the Council stated.

The Council further cautioned that internal political manoeuvring at this stage could create unnecessary divisions, distractions, and competition within the governing party.

Citing Article 42 of the NDC Constitution, the Council explained that the National Executive Committee (NEC) is solely responsible for determining the date and venue for presidential primaries. The constitution requires such elections to be held at least 12 months before a general election when the party is in government and 24 months before an election when the party is in opposition.

The Council emphasised that until the NEC formally triggers the constitutional process and announces a timetable for presidential primaries, no individual or group has the authority to campaign for any prospective presidential candidate.

“Accordingly, the Council of Elders directs all persons engaged in such activities to cease forthwith. These include all forms of campaigning, mobilisation, endorsements, publicity, or related activities intended to advance the presidential ambitions of any prospective candidate,” the statement said.

The Council concluded by urging party members to remain united and focused on supporting the government's development agenda rather than engaging in internal succession debates.

“The time for internal contests will come. For now, our collective responsibility is to serve the nation and successfully implement the mandate entrusted to us,” the statement added.