Former MP Nii Armah Ashietey Seeks NDC Chairmanship, Gains Teshie Chiefs' Support

Nii Armah Ashietey, the former Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey and ex-Minister of Employment, has taken a significant step towards his bid for the National Chairmanship of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), securing the blessing of Teshie's traditional authorities during ceremonies marking the Homowo festival. The move signals the former minister's intent to enter the race for party leadership as the NDC positions itself ahead of the 2028 general elections.

On Wednesday, 26 August 2026, Ashietey visited the Teshie Palace, where he formally notified the Paramount Chief and elders of his aspirations for the national chairmanship role. Gbetsoolo Nii Ashitey Akomfra III and the traditional council responded by performing libation ceremonies and invoking ancestral blessings for Ashietey's political campaign, a gesture reflecting his standing within the Teshie community.

Experience and Party Credentials

Ashietey has emphasised his extensive background in party politics and public administration as the foundation for his candidacy. Speaking to media representatives following the palace visit, he outlined his progression through various levels of NDC leadership, from branch chairman to constituency chairman and eventually to national-level positions. He framed this trajectory as natural preparation for the chairmanship role.

"I don't think that journey is anything special. I have been a branch chairman and a constituency chairman, and therefore, coming as a national chairman is part of the process of development," Ashietey stated. He expressed confidence that his accumulated experience over the years would strengthen the party's capacity to secure victory in the 2028 general elections.

Ashietey was accompanied to the palace by a delegation including Hajia Amina Amadu, former District Chief Executive for Bono; Osah Mills, former Minister of State; and Captain (Retired) Eric Dodoo, former Chairman of the Ablekuma South Constituency. The composition of his delegation underscores his effort to build a broad coalition of experienced party figures supporting his bid.

Why This Matters for Ghana

The NDC chairmanship race will significantly influence Ghana's political landscape leading up to 2028. As the ruling party seeks to consolidate power and prepare its campaign machinery, the choice of party leadership becomes crucial to its electoral strategy and internal cohesion. Ashietey's entry into the race adds another seasoned political operator to what is likely to be a contested process within the party.

For the broader Ghanaian political context, the chairmanship contest reflects evolving dynamics within the NDC. The party must balance competing interests and ambitions while maintaining focus on its governance agenda and electoral objectives. Leadership contests in ruling parties often influence ministerial reshuffles, campaign direction, and policy priorities—matters that directly affect citizens' lives.

The Teshie Palace visit also illustrates the continued importance of traditional authorities in Ghanaian political life. Seeking blessings from chiefs and elders remains a standard practice for politicians with national ambitions, particularly in the Greater Accra Region, highlighting the intersection of traditional authority and modern electoral politics.

Next Steps in the Campaign

Ashietey's consultation with Teshie leadership represents the beginning of wider stakeholder engagement activities preceding his formal declaration. Political observers expect additional consultations with party executives, regional leaders, and grassroots members as his campaign gains momentum. The formal announcement of his candidacy will clarify the full field of aspirants contending for the NDC chairmanship position.

As the NDC navigates internal party competitions, the outcomes will likely shape the party's strategic direction, messaging, and organisational focus in the run-up to 2028—a process that will unfold under considerable media scrutiny and public interest.