The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress has issued a directive following a meeting with President John Dramani Mahama, who also leads the party.
The engagement took place on Friday, 29 May 2026, and focused on internal cohesion, discipline, and the responsibilities of members in supporting the government’s ongoing policy programme.
The Council explained that the discussions centred on strengthening unity within the party as it works to implement what it described as the Government’s Resetting Agenda.
It noted that the successful delivery of this agenda depends on collective effort, organisational discipline, and a shared commitment to national priorities.
The statement was issued after what the Council described as extensive deliberations on matters affecting both the internal stability of the party and public expectations regarding governance.
Concern over premature political activity
The ruling party’s Council of Elders expressed concern about increasing reports of early political activity linked to presidential ambitions within the party.
It noted that there is growing unease among sections of the party and the wider public over actions by some individuals and groups that appear to promote internal leadership contests ahead of schedule.
It stated that at this stage, the priority of the party is the implementation of its mandate to govern and deliver development outcomes for citizens. Members were therefore urged to focus their attention on supporting government programmes rather than engaging in activities that could generate division or unnecessary competition.
According to the Council, premature campaigning has the potential to distract from governance responsibilities and weaken internal unity at a time when coordination is required to meet public expectations.
Reference to constitutional provisions
The Council drew attention to Article 42 of the Constitution of the National Democratic Congress, which outlines the framework for the selection of presidential candidates. The provision states:
“The date and venue for the election of the Presidential Candidate shall be decided by the National Executive Committee (NEC), but that election shall take place at least twelve (12) months before a national election date if the Party is in power and at least twenty-four (24) months if the Party is not in power.”
Article 42 of the Constitution of the National Democratic Congress
The Council emphasized that no individual, group, or faction is permitted to initiate or promote any presidential campaign activity until the National Executive Committee formally sets the timetable and issues official guidelines for the conduct of presidential primaries.
It added that adherence to party rules is essential for maintaining fairness, order, and institutional discipline, particularly during a period when the party is focused on governance responsibilities.
Directive to halt campaign activities
The Council of Elders issued a firm instruction calling for the immediate cessation of all early campaign related activities. It stated that all forms of mobilisation, endorsements, publicity, and any indirect actions intended to advance presidential ambitions must stop without delay.
The directive applies to all members of the National Democratic Congress, regardless of status or position. The Council stressed that continued engagement in such activities runs contrary to the party’s current priorities and risks undermining cohesion.
It further indicated that internal competition must not be allowed to overshadow governance duties, particularly at a time when the party is expected to focus on delivering on its mandate to the electorate.
Call for unity and disciplined focus
The Council urged members to redirect their attention towards strengthening unity and supporting the government’s development agenda. It stated that the party’s immediate responsibility is to consolidate its efforts in delivering policies aimed at addressing national challenges and improving living standards.
It emphasized that internal political processes will be conducted in accordance with established rules and at the appropriate time determined by the party’s leadership structures. Until then, members are expected to prioritise collective goals over individual ambitions.
The Council also reminded members that discipline and restraint are essential to sustaining public confidence in the party’s ability to govern effectively.
The directive issued by the Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress follows its meeting with President John Dramani Mahama and reflects a broader effort to maintain unity within the organisation.
By prohibiting early presidential campaign activities and reinforcing constitutional guidelines, the Council has signalled a firm position on internal discipline.
The statement underscores a renewed emphasis on governance, organisational order, and adherence to party rules, while urging members to focus on delivering the mandate entrusted to them by the Ghanaian public.
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