Vanderpuye: I’ll contest NDC chairmanship if Asiedu Nketia opts out

The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has indicated that he is prepared to resign from his current role to contest for the National Chairmanship of the governing National Democratic Congress if the party’s current chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, chooses not to seek another term.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Vanderpuye said he would not challenge Asiedu Nketia out of respect for him, describing the NDC chairman as a senior colleague with whom he shares a long-standing relationship.

He explained that while he would step aside if Asiedu Nketia decides to run again, he would be willing to put himself forward should the position become vacant.

The former Minister for Youth and Sports cited his extensive history within the NDC as evidence of his readiness to lead the party. He noted that he had been actively involved in the party’s youth structures and was among its founding members.

Vanderpuye recalled serving as a ward secretary during the formation of the NDC in 1992 while employed at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), describing it as one of the earliest stages of his political journey.

He also highlighted his experience in various leadership and government roles, including serving as a parliamentary aspirant, deputy minister, cabinet minister, campaign operations director, and presidential staff member under previous NDC administrations.

According to him, this breadth of political and administrative experience has equipped him with the skills needed to lead the party if the opportunity arises.

Vanderpuye further confirmed that he would step down as DRIP National Coordinator if he decides to enter the race, explaining that he views the move as a way of giving back to a party that has played a significant role in his political career.