Former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has withdrawn from the party’s upcoming National Chairmanship contest, citing the overriding interest of the party and his commitment to serving in other capacities.
The decision means he will not pursue the position despite supporters from all 16 regions having purchased his nomination forms and paid the filing fees on his behalf.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 9, Dr. Ofosu-Ampofo expressed appreciation to the supporters for the confidence they had demonstrated in his leadership but said he had decided against proceeding with the contest after careful consideration.
“After careful consideration, Hon. Dr. Ofosu-Ampofo has decided not to proceed with his participation in the NDC National Chairmanship race, a decision he has taken in the overriding interest of the party and his commitment to serving the party and the nation in other capacities,” the statement said.
He also pointed to his current responsibilities as Political Advisor to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Board Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
According to the statement, the two roles require his attention as the government pursues its resetting agenda and works on restructuring the cocoa industry.
Dr. Ofosu-Ampofo further reaffirmed his commitment to the NDC, saying he remained available to support the party with his political and governance experience.
“With 34 years of experience in party politics and governance, he remains available and willing to place his wealth of experience, knowledge and institutional understanding at the disposal of the party whenever called upon,” the statement added.
His withdrawal comes as the NDC prepares to elect new national executives at its December 19, 2026 National Delegates Congress.
Dr. Ofosu-Ampofo previously served as the party’s National Chairman from 2018 until December 2022, when he lost his re-election bid to Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
Supporters had picked nomination forms for him in October, but his decision on whether to contest was left pending until his formal announcement.
The former chairman also congratulated newly elected constituency officers and urged party members to maintain unity and mutual respect throughout the remaining internal electoral process.
