Julius Debrah's Support Declines in NDC Presidential Race

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2028 flagbearership race has taken a dramatic turn, with Chief of Staff Julius Debrah suffering the steepest drop in support, and National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah consolidating his lead.

A nationwide survey by Africa Policy Lens (APL) conducted between June 24 and July 3, 2026, shows that Debrah's support has collapsed to 9.7%, a drop of over 20 points from his 30.1% in April. This decline coincided with gains for the top two, with Nketiah increasing his support from 31.9% to 33.8%, maintaining his position at the top.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson also made modest gains, rising from 13.0% to 15.1%. However, the biggest momentum was with Haruna Iddrisu, who jumped from 17.9% to 22.5% to claim second place.

Delegate preferences have become increasingly consolidated around a new hierarchy, according to APL. The report identifies Nketiah as the candidate most frequently perceived by delegates as the principal competitor, while naming Iddrisu as the emerging principal challenger.

Delegates told APL they are prioritising four things above all: experience and proven track record, personal integrity and honesty, ability to unite the party and grassroots appeal. According to the survey, 84% of respondents said they are "very likely" to actively campaign for their preferred candidate, pointing to high engagement ahead of the 2027 primary.

The NDC is expected to hold its presidential primary in 2027, and the June poll provides the most comprehensive independent benchmark yet of where the grassroots currently stand. The survey used structured telephone interviews and targeted politically active constituency and branch executives with high electoral participation.

The report notes that the findings are "a snapshot of grassroots sentiment during the period of data collection rather than a prediction of the eventual outcome." Delegate preferences may continue to evolve as campaigns intensify, and the contest remains competitive.

The June poll shows a clear shift in the dynamics of the NDC 2028 flagbearership race, with Nketiah extending his lead and Iddrisu climbing to second place. As the primary approaches, the battle for the top spot is likely to heat up, with all four candidates vying for the nomination.

Source: JOY