The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has directed all party members, groups, and interest blocs engaged in premature presidential campaigning to immediately cease such activities, warning that no individual has been authorised to begin campaigning for the party’s next presidential race.
The directive was contained in a statement issued after a meeting between the Council of Elders and President John Dramani Mahama, who is also the leader of the NDC, on Friday, May 29, 2026.
According to the Council, the decision follows growing concerns within the party and among the public over reports of early presidential campaign activities by some individuals and groups.
“The Council notes with concern the growing unease among sections of the Party and the wider public regarding reports of premature presidential campaigns and related political activities by individuals and groups within the Party,” the statement said.
The Council stressed that the NDC’s immediate priority is to support the Mahama administration’s Resetting Agenda and deliver on the mandate given to the government by Ghanaians.
“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,” it stated.
Citing Article 42 of the NDC Constitution, the Council reminded members that the National Executive Committee (NEC) is solely responsible for determining the timetable and venue for electing a presidential candidate.
The statement emphasised that until the NEC officially announces guidelines and timelines for presidential primaries, no person or group is permitted to undertake any form of campaign activity.
“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 added.
The Council therefore ordered the immediate suspension of all campaign-related activities, including endorsements, mobilisation efforts, publicity campaigns, and any actions intended to promote the presidential ambitions of prospective candidates.
Calling for unity and discipline, the Council urged party members to focus on governance and national development rather than internal political contests.
“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 statement concluded.
The Council also appealed to members to remain united and committed to supporting the government’s transformational agenda while working to meet the expectations of the Ghanaian people.
