The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has paved the way for a potential presidential running mate for its flagbearer, John Mahama.

This comes after the former president presented names for consideration to the NEC and Council of Elders of the party to partner with him for the December presidential election.

The decision of the two bodies will bring finality to the choice of the running mate at a meeting scheduled for March 7, 2024. However, this has opened the doors for lobbying by persons interested in the job.

Speaking to JoyNews, a Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, Mustapha Gbande stated that the party is ready to listen to those endorsed for the job.

He explained that voting processes at meetings have consistently been part of the NDC custom, emphasising that if it becomes necessary at any level of the party to cast a vote to arrive at a decision, the process will be proposed by the General Secretary and the National Chairman.

“That doesn't just put so much pressure on the flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, knowing very well that with this announcement out, those who are very interested in partnering with him will scale up their lobbying skills,” he said.

Commenting on the likelihood that, since the NEC has paved the way for potential individuals to apply, it may create an opportunity for others to lobby the Committee for the slot, Mr Gbande said, "If you aspire to be a flagbearer, you go around and campaign; the same principle applies to the running mate.

"So a lot of people are interested; they have to call us and speak to us so that we arrive at the best choice in the interest of the party.”

He dismissed the claims that allowing people to lobby the NEC for the presidential running mate position would encourage monetisation of the electoral process.

"Who told you that when lobbying somebody, you carry money around and lobby the people? No, in NDC you lobby, you speak to individuals, you sell your vision, you have to carry your CV on your back,” the NDC Deputy General Secretary said.