Growing indications within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) suggest that the current Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, is being seriously considered by influential factions within the party as a possible presidential candidate for the 2028 general elections.
With President John Dramani Mahama constitutionally barred from seeking re-election after his current term—which ends in 2029—attention has turned to who will lead the party into the next electoral cycle. Mahama previously served from 2012 to 2016 and returned to office in January 2025 for a final term.
Several prominent names have emerged as potential successors, including National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, MP for Klottey Korle and daughter of the late President Jerry John Rawlings.
However, recent internal chatter points to the MP for Asunafo South, Eric Opoku, as the preferred heir apparent. Sources indicate that consultations are well underway among key stakeholders to rally support behind his candidacy, with efforts being made to build momentum quietly and avoid premature publicity.
Deep-rooted insiders reveal that influential government figures and individuals close to the presidency are actively backing the Agriculture Minister, describing him as a competent and dedicated leader fit to carry the NDC banner forward.
A discreet yet strategic mobilisation effort has reportedly begun, with a team working across the regions to quietly promote his potential bid.
InfoAnalytics Poll Shows Tight Race for 2028 NDC Leadership
Meanwhile, new polling data from research and data analytics firm Global InfoAnalytics shows a competitive landscape within the NDC regarding its 2028 flagbearer race.
According to the poll, shared via the company’s official Facebook page, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu leads with 27% of the support base, narrowly edging out National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, who polled at 26%.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson followed closely with 22%, while Chief of Staff Julius Debrah received 11%. North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa garnered 8%, and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings polled 4%. The remaining 3% went to other unnamed individuals.
The results reflect a tight contest and a party carefully weighing its leadership future as it prepares for the 2028 presidential elections.
