Citizen Eye Ghana, a civil society organization committed to deepening democratic governance and promoting informed political participation, has conducted a strategic assessment of potential presidential candidates within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the party's internal selection process.

Based on months of research, stakeholder consultations, and political trend analysis, their findings strongly indicate that the Chief of Staff to the President, Julius Debrah, stands out as the most qualified, strategic, and unifying choice to lead the NDC into the 2028 elections.

The analysis by Citizen Eye Ghana factored in four critical areas: regional balance, age and energy, governance experience, and personal leadership qualities.

Regional Balance and Political Strategy

Historically, Ghana’s electorate has leaned toward regional inclusivity when choosing leadership. With the current president hailing from the Northern Region, our research suggests that the political atmosphere is more favorable for a southern candidate to represent the NDC. While figures like Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, at 54, bring energy and intellect to the table, selecting another candidate from the north could be perceived as lacking regional diversity. Hon. Julius Debrah, a native of the Eastern Region, provides the NDC with strategic geographical appeal and helps the party align with national expectations of regional balance.

Age, Capacity, and Electoral Trends

Our review of past electoral outcomes in Ghana's Fourth Republic reveals a consistent pattern: younger presidential candidates tend to enjoy greater momentum and public support. Mr. Asiedu Nketiah, at 68, is a seasoned party operative, but his age may not align with the current demographic expectations of the electorate. In contrast, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, though full of promise at 44, has not yet accumulated the executive experience needed for a presidential role.

Hon. Julius Debrah, at 59, is uniquely positioned, mature yet vibrant, tested but still dynamic. He is at the optimal age where energy, wisdom, and experience intersect.

Executive Governance Experience

One of the most decisive findings from our study is the unmatched governance exposure Hon. Julius Debrah brings to the table. From his days as Eastern Regional Minister to his tenure as Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, and eventually as Chief of Staff under President John Mahama, Debrah has navigated the highest corridors of power.

As Chief of Staff, he served as the principal coordinator of government business and the closest advisor to the president. This role is widely regarded as the operational backbone of the presidency. His understanding of the inner workings of state institutions, policy execution, and inter-ministerial collaboration makes him an exceptional candidate and not one who needs to learn on the job, but one who is already equipped to lead from day one.

Character, Vision, and Servant Leadership

Stakeholder interviews conducted by Citizen Eye Ghana highlighted Hon. Julius Debrah’s personal attributes as key strengths. He is widely described as a servant leader, humble, loyal, and deeply respected by both grassroots and elite actors within the NDC. His approach to politics is grounded in trust, inclusivity, and results. He is not known for political drama but for delivering on mandates with quiet competence.

Hon. Debrah’s vision focuses on development-oriented leadership, youth empowerment, and wealth creation for the broader population. His belief that public service is a duty, not a privilege, reflects the type of ethical leadership Ghanaians are yearning for.

A Strategic and Principled Path Forward

The research concluded that Mr Debrah offers the NDC a compelling blend of regional appeal, executive experience, moral authority, and visionary thinking. In an era where political trust is waning and governance challenges are mounting, the party’s electoral chances hinge not only on charisma or populism, but on proven competence, trustworthiness, and the ability to unify the party and the nation.

The organisation described Mr Debrah as not just another candidate but a statesman in waiting, a strategist forged through service, and a leader prepared for the weight of national responsibility.

They called on the NDC’s delegates and leadership to make a forward-looking, evidence-based decision. The future of the party and the multi-party democracy of the nation may well depend on it.