Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has officially announced his decision not to contest the party’s upcoming national chairmanship election, citing his commitment to serving the party and government in other capacities.
The announcement confirms rumors that the former chairman had decided against seeking a return to the position following extensive consultations with senior figures within the NDC and government.
Ofosu-Ampofo was widely expected to contest the chairmanship after supporters from all 16 regions of the country purchased nomination forms and paid the filing fees on his behalf.
However, in a press statement announcing his decision, the former NDC Chairman expressed gratitude to his supporters for their confidence in his leadership but explained that he had decided not to proceed with his candidature in the overriding interest of the party.
The statement further explained that President John Dramani Mahama had entrusted him with two significant responsibilities in government, which require his attention and commitment.
Ofosu-Ampofo currently serves as Political Advisor to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Board Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), where he provides oversight for the ongoing restructuring of the cocoa industry.
According to the statement, these responsibilities are critical to the successful implementation of the government’s resetting agenda and the delivery of its promises to Ghanaians.
He therefore remains committed to discharging these duties with dedication, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.
Despite his decision not to contest, Ofosu-Ampofo reaffirmed his commitment to the NDC, indicating that his 34 years of experience in party politics and governance would remain available to support the party.
He also urged party members and aspirants to conduct themselves with unity and mutual respect throughout the ongoing internal electoral processes.
“The strength of the NDC lies in its collective experience, unity, institutional memory and shared commitment to its ideals,” the statement noted.
Ofosu-Ampofo served as National Chairman of the NDC from 2018 to 2022, when he lost his re-election bid to the incumbent chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
His decision not to enter the contest leaves four other prominent party figures in the national chairmanship race.
They include former Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye; former Minister for Local Government, Akwasi Oppong-Fosu; incumbent National Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka; and former Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, Nii Armah Ashitey.
The NDC is expected to close the filing of nominations for its national executive elections on Monday, November 9, 2026.
