ACCRA — New data emerging from political analyst Misa Danika suggests a shifting landscape for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) leadership race, with former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu establishing a significant lead among key voter blocs.
The analysis, which categorizes preferences based on how respondents voted in the 2024 general elections, reveals a complex divide within the party’s base. Among NDC supporters who voted for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB), 36% expressed a preference for Haruna Iddrisu. This is followed by 21% for Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and 13% for the current party Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
The dynamics shift slightly among those who remained loyal to the NDC’s 2024 candidate, John Dramani Mahama (JDM). In this group, Iddrisu remains the top choice with 29%, closely trailed by Asiedu Nketia at 24% and Ato Forson at 23%. Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the party’s 2024 running mate, garnered 9% support from this bloc.
Voter sentiment appears even more fragmented among those who backed third-party candidates. Among NDC supporters who voted for Alan Kyerematen, Asiedu Nketia leads with 31%, followed by Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa and Ato Forson at 21% and 17% respectively. Conversely, those who supported Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar) showed a split preference, with 30% backing Professor Joshua Alabi and another 30% favoring Ablakwa.
A broader demographic trend is also evident in the data. Approximately 64% of NDC voters who supported John Mahama indicated a preference for an Akan candidate to lead the party. Furthermore, 57.5% of the Mahama voter base expressed a desire for “younger” leadership, specifically naming Haruna Iddrisu, Ato Forson, and Okudjeto Ablakwa as their preferred choices.
The report further suggests that Iddrisu’s continued public support for Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang may be a calculated tactical move. Analysts believe this strategy is designed to consolidate her 9% core support base, serving as a “political insurance” policy to maintain his lead as the field of potential candidates narrows.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
