The search for who to partner the two candidates for the two main political parties for the 2024 elections has become intense.
As opinion leaders are urging the flag bearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, to select his running mate from their regions, the ruling New Patriotic Party’s Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has asked for more time to make the decision which the party’s constitution mandated it to be done on December 6, this year.
During Mr Mahama’s campaign tour in the Bono and Western North regions, some traditional leaders made requests on whom should be considered for the office.
Also, some NDC youth groups in the Volta and Oti regions are demanding that the former President selects his running mate from the region known to be the NDC’s stronghold.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Ghana, Dr. Alidu Seidu, has advised John Mahama to settle on someone of an Akan descent as his running mate.
He says the Akan votes, due to their dominance, can guarantee victory for the umbrella party.
“…because of the dominance of the Akan votes and the significant contribution the Akan vote can make to the NDC’s victory in 2024 election,” he noted.
Despite the five regions in the northern sector of the country, together with the Oti and Volta regions being the backbone of the NDC, Dr. Seidu says their votes alone cannot secure power for the party
“So, I think a lot of people are calling for him to look beyond the Volta region and go to maybe an Akan-dominated region. The running mate should be an Akan either from the Ashanti region or any of the Akan-speaking regions,” he indicated on Accra-based Joy FM Thursday, December 14, 2023.
His advice also touched selecting a candidate who can continue in leadership for the party after Mahama’s tenure since he has only one term remaining.
Dr. Seidu, has, however, noted that the traditional leaders lobbying for the position for their indigenes is as a result of an anticipated development they suppose would come their way, adding that those being lobbied for, are doing so through the traditional leadership are doing so as a result of the respect they command.
John Mahama has also indicated that his running mate would be selected in February 2024.
“I don’t choose a running mate alone. Myself, together with the Functional Executive Committee and Council of Elders, pick from a list and decide on one person,” he pointed out.
He urged those appealing for their preferred candidates to exercise restraint.
“I would pray for your patience, as we all know that God grants the King and the NDC doesn’t discriminate.”
Mr Mahama was partnered by Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang in the 2020 election, and there are suggestions she may be retained, although others want to see a new face.
READ ALSO: Election 2024: Afriyie Ankrah cautions party faithful against premature jubilation
