Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), has expressed his intention to run for the National Chairmanship of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), conditional on the incumbent chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, deciding not to run again.
Out of deference to their enduring relationship, Mr. Vanderpuye clarified that he has no intention of running against Mr. Asiedu Nketia, whom he respects deeply as a senior peer.
Nevertheless, he confirmed his readiness to join the contest if the chairmanship opens up.
The former Minister for Youth and Sports highlighted his deep roots and extensive track record within the NDC as proof of his qualifications for the top post.
His decades of loyalty date back to the party’s inception in 1992, during which he has held numerous roles, including: Ward Secretary (while working at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation) Parliamentary Candidate, Deputy Minister. Cabinet Minister and Campaign Strategist.
Mr. Vanderpuye believes this lifelong political trajectory has granted him the essential expertise required to guide the party at its highest executive level.
During an interview with Citi FM on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Mr. Vanderpuye noted that he would resign from his role as DRIP National Coordinator should he launch his chairmanship campaign.
“If he [Johnson Asiedu Nketia] is not contesting, I’m ready to offer myself,” he said, adding that he believes he has the credentials to lead the party. “This party has given me so much. I want to give back to the party.”
He added that his ambitions are fueled solely by a dedication to the NDC, maintaining that his lifelong devotion has fully equipped him to manage the party’s future if the slot becomes available.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
