The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a strong warning to party members against engaging in premature presidential campaign activities, stressing the need for unity, discipline and unwavering support for the government's development agenda.
The caution follows a meeting between the Council and President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, May 29, 2026, where discussions centred on strengthening party cohesion, maintaining internal discipline and supporting the government's ongoing "Resetting Agenda."
In a statement released after the meeting, the Council expressed concern over reports that some individuals and groups within the party had begun activities aimed at positioning themselves for future presidential contests.
According to the Council, such actions risk creating divisions within the party and diverting attention from the government's efforts to address national challenges and fulfil its campaign promises.
"At this critical stage of national reconstruction and renewal, every member of the Party is expected to devote his or her energies, resources, and commitment to supporting the Government's efforts to reset the country and improve the lives of Ghanaians, rather than engaging in activities that have the potential to create division, distraction, or unnecessary internal competition," the statement said.
The Council reminded members that the NDC Constitution clearly outlines the process and timeline for electing a presidential candidate, noting that the responsibility for setting such timelines rests with the party's National Executive Committee (NEC).
Citing Article 42 of the party's constitution, the Council emphasised that no individual or group has the authority to commence or promote any form of presidential campaign until the NEC officially announces guidelines and a timetable for presidential primaries.
"The Council emphasises that, until the appropriate constitutional processes have been initiated and the National Executive Committee has determined the timetable and guidelines for the conduct of presidential primaries, no individual, group, or interest bloc is authorised to undertake or promote any form of presidential campaign, whether directly or indirectly," the statement stressed.
As a result, the Council directed all party members and supporters currently involved in such activities to halt them immediately. The directive covers campaigning, mobilisation efforts, endorsements and other related political activities that could be interpreted as part of an early presidential bid.
The Council further urged party faithful to remain focused on strengthening the party's unity and supporting the Mahama administration's efforts to implement policies aimed at improving the lives of Ghanaians.
It noted that while internal democratic contests are an important aspect of the party's tradition, the current priority should be effective governance and the successful execution of the government's mandate.
"The time for internal contests will come. For now, our collective responsibility is to serve the nation and successfully implement the mandate entrusted to us," the Council stated.
The statement is expected to quell growing speculation about potential contenders for the NDC's future presidential ticket and reinforce the party leadership's message that governance and national development must take precedence over internal political ambitions.