The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has officially resigned from his position to pursue a national executive role within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a public statement announcing his resignation, Vanderpuye said the decision was driven by his desire to continue serving both the party and the nation in a different capacity while contributing to the strengthening of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“This decision is driven by my desire to continue serving our party and country in a different capacity, while contributing to the strengthening of our democratic traditions and institutions,” he stated.
The resignation comes shortly after Vanderpuye publicly indicated his willingness to contest for the position of NDC National Chairman should the party’s current chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, decide not to seek re-election.
His comments sparked discussions within party circles about the future leadership of the NDC and potential contenders for key national executive positions ahead of the party’s next internal elections.
Political observers view his resignation as a strategic move aimed at complying with party and governance principles while positioning himself for a possible national leadership campaign.
In his statement, Vanderpuye expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for entrusting him with the responsibility of coordinating the DRIP initiative.
He described his tenure as both an honour and a privilege, noting that the programme has played a significant role in improving local infrastructure and enhancing development efforts across communities nationwide.
“It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as National Coordinator of a programme dedicated to transforming local infrastructure and improving livelihoods across our communities,” he said.
Despite stepping down from his role, Vanderpuye emphasized that his resignation should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from public service or national development efforts.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the vision of the Mahama administration and the principles of the NDC, stressing that he remains dedicated to supporting the government's development agenda.
“I remain fully committed to the vision of President Mahama’s administration and the core values of the National Democratic Congress,” he stated.
He also expressed appreciation to staff, stakeholders, development partners, and all those who contributed to the implementation of the District Road Improvement Programme, while expressing confidence in the programme’s continued success.
The District Road Improvement Programme was introduced to improve road infrastructure in districts across Ghana by providing Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies with road construction equipment and logistical support.
The initiative forms part of broader government efforts to improve access roads, boost local economic activity, and enhance connectivity in underserved communities.
Vanderpuye's departure marks a significant leadership transition for the programme as attention shifts toward his anticipated involvement in the NDC's future leadership contest.