Ghana’s political landscape is bracing for an extraordinary face-off in the 2028 general elections, one that promises to be as symbolic as it is historic. In what many analysts are calling a “Clash of the Beasts,” the presidential race is shaping up to feature a battle between the resilient and agile mosquito and the bold and powerful lion.

The mosquito is none other than Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the longest-serving National Executive of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), affectionately and sometimes mockingly called “General Mosquito” by Ghanaians.

Known for his sharp tongue, strategic wit and grassroots appeal, Asiedu Nketiah seems to be emerging as the front-runner in the NDC’s upcoming presidential primaries who may face-off notable contenders like Haruna Iddrisu, the seasoned Tamale South MP and Minister for Education; Julius Debrah, the current Chief of Staff; and Dr Kwabena Duffuor, the respected former Finance Minister.

Asiedu Nketiah’s edge stems from decades of dedication to the NDC, his unmatched organisational skills and his ability to resonate with both the party base and the ordinary Ghanaian. Despite his lean physique and unassuming appearance, he has time and again proven to be a political tactician, often underestimated by rivals but always emerging with a sting. He may look fragile, but underestimate General Mosquito at your own peril. He is always buzzing where it matters most in the minds and hearts of the grassroots.

Indeed, the mosquito may be small, but it is ever-present, persistent and impossible to ignore. Asiedu Nketiah’s knack for circumnavigating political storms and his reputation for standing firm in the face of opposition have made him a symbol of tenacity. His likely victory in the NDC primaries would mark a dramatic turn in the party’s strategy, which could lean fully into experience, loyalty and probably a populist appeal.

On the other side of the political divide, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) appears ready to crown its lion, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, as the party’s presidential candidate for 2028. Agyapong, the maverick businessman and outspoken former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, has increasingly consolidated power within the party, and that is outpacing other potential aspirants.

Known for his fearlessness, booming voice and fierce loyalty to party and country, Kennedy Agyapong is the embodiment of strength and dominance, the classic traits of a lion. His 2024 presidential primary run, although falling short, endeared him to a significant section of the party’s youth and grassroots supporters who view him as a no-nonsense leader capable of taking decisive action. The lion does not ask permission before it roars, and similarly, Kennedy does not wait for cues; he defines the moment.

His reputation as a straight-talker and defender of truth has earned him admirers and critics alike. But few doubt his influence, wealth and raw political power. With his growing appeal, especially among those frustrated with the status quo, many believe that 2028 is his moment.

If the two men secure their respective party nominations, Ghanaians will witness one of the most symbolic and intriguing electoral contests in the nation’s history: a lion squaring off against a mosquito.

The metaphor is rich. The lion, strong and dominant, roams with authority, staking its claim boldly. The mosquito, nimble and strategic, strikes at unexpected moments, often leaving even the mighty unsettled. The 2028 election, if it becomes this duel, would not just be about personalities, but it would be about political styles, strategies and philosophies.

Kennedy Agyapong would likely campaign on a platform of strength, patriotism and economic nationalism and would ultimately promise to deal ruthlessly with corruption and inefficiency.

Asiedu Nketiah, on the other hand, would likely lean into his record of loyalty, grassroots empowerment and democratic resilience, and he will pitch himself as the defender of the ordinary Ghanaian.

With both men carrying immense influence within their parties and among sections of the electorate, the lion-versus-mosquito showdown is set to redefine Ghanaian politics. Whilst lions may rule the savannah, mosquitoes have been known to interrupt even the king’s slumber and come 2028, Ghanaians may have to choose between the roar of strength and the sting of strategy.
May God protect us from witnessing this epic showdown.

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Author: Scott Edward Agyemang, Doctoral Researcher and Political Analyst