DRIP National Coordinator Edwin Vanderpuye Eyes NDC National Chairmanship if Asiedu Nketia Steps Down
The National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has declared his readiness to contest the National Chairmanship of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) should the current chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, decide not to seek re-election.
Speaking in an interview on Eyewitness News on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Mr. Vanderpuye expressed deep respect for Asiedu Nketia but made it clear that he is prepared to throw his hat into the ring if the incumbent steps aside.
“Well, I have made it clear that in case he [Johnson Asiedu Nketia] decides to contest the National Chairmanship again, I wouldn’t want to contest him because he’s my senior brother,” he said. “We started together in Sunyani; he’s one of the people that I respect so much… But if he’s not contesting, I’m ready to offer myself.”
Mr. Vanderpuye, a former Minister for Youth and Sports, highlighted his long-standing commitment to the NDC, describing himself as a foundation member who has served the party in various capacities since its early days.
“I was the youth organiser of the Democratic Youth League of Ghana, the Future Leaders Organisation. I’ve always been part of this. I’m also a foundation member of the party,” he noted.
He recounted his political journey, including serving as a ward secretary in 1992 while working at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), as well as roles as a parliamentary aspirant, deputy minister, cabinet minister, and campaign official.
Mr. Vanderpuye emphasised that his extensive experience has equipped him with the knowledge, loyalty, and dedication needed to lead the party effectively.
He also confirmed that he would resign from his current position as DRIP National Coordinator if he decides to contest the chairmanship.
“Yes, because I think this party has given me so much. I want to give back to the party,” he stated.
The announcement adds an interesting dimension to the internal dynamics of the NDC as it looks ahead to future leadership contests. The current National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has not yet indicated whether he will seek re-election.
