A new field survey by Prof. Smart Sarpong has identified Johnson Asiedu Nketia as the early frontrunner in the race for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer position, ahead of an anticipated internal contest.
The study, conducted between April 14 and April 19, covered eight of Ghana’s 16 regions, sampling 100 constituencies and 2,350 communities. According to Prof Sarpong, Director of Research and Innovation at Kumasi Technical University, a total of 6,735 respondents participated, comprising an equal split between the general public and NDC delegates.
Prof Sarpong explains the findings point to a clear early lead for Mr Asiedu Nketiah, particularly among party delegates, who showed higher levels of interest in the internal race compared to the general public.
The survey ranked Haruna Iddrisu in second place, followed by Eric Opoku in third and Cassiel Ato Forson in fourth. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang placed fifth, while Julius Debrah ranked sixth.
Other figures, including Kojo Bonsu and Joshua Alabi, were less prominent in the surveyed regions but were mentioned by some delegates as possible contenders.
The findings also revealed a notable level of indecision, with 34.5 percent of respondents from the general public and 17.5 percent of delegates yet to make a choice—suggesting the race remains open ahead of any formal declarations.
Prof Sarpong cautioned that the survey should not be interpreted as predictive, but rather as a reflection of current perceptions within the party and the wider public. He indicated that the study would be repeated once candidates officially declare their intentions.
He added that delegates’ preferences were influenced by factors such as experience, communication skills, grassroots appeal, and loyalty to the party. Age, he noted, could also become a consideration, as several potential candidates would be in their late 50s to late 70s by the 2028 elections.
