NDC Triggers 2026 Internal Elections as New Leadership Polls Show Dr. Ato Forson Leading 2028 Race

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially commenced its internal restructuring process, opening nominations for constituency executive positions across the country. Running from September 15 to September 17, 2026, this electoral cycle marks a critical phase in the party's reorganization during President John Mahama’s current term. Deputy General Secretary Barbara Serwaa Asamoah and Director of Elections Mahdi Gibrill have emphasized the need for a transparent and disciplined process, urging members to adhere to democratic values as the party prepares for its nationwide constituency elections in October.

According to the official timeline released by the party hierarchy, candidates are expected to file their nominations between September 23 and September 24, 2026, following the initial nomination period. Vetting is scheduled to take place from September 25 to 27, followed by an appeals process from September 29 to October 1. The constituency-level elections are slated for October 24 and 25, 2026. To ensure financial commitment and institutional loyalty, the NDC has mandated that all aspirants must have fully paid their membership dues for the last four years, with all nomination form payments processed exclusively through online platforms.

Parallel to the constituency-level races, high-profile figures are beginning to announce bids for regional and national roles. Steven Nhyira Odarteifio formally declared his candidacy for the National Youth Organiser position, pledging to mobilize young Ghanaians for economic empowerment in alignment with President Mahama’s vision. Odarteifio expressed an ambitious goal to economically impact one million young people before the end of the current administration. Similarly, businessman Richard Dogbe, popularly known as "Alhaji ATM," has announced his bid for the Deputy Greater Accra Regional Youth Organiser seat, highlighting a party-wide push to recognize youth as integral leaders of the present.

While the party focuses on its immediate internal structures, a new Global InfoAnalytics poll has stirred discussions regarding the NDC's long-term leadership. The survey indicates a significant shift in delegate preferences for the 2028 presidential ticket, with Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson now leading the race at 32%—a 10-point jump since July 2026. He has overtaken the party’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who currently stands at 23%. With 28% of delegates still undecided, the poll suggests that the outcome of the ongoing internal elections could play a pivotal role in shaping the party’s future hierarchy and its strategy for the 2028 general elections.