The leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Action Movement, James Agbey, has cautioned party leadership and government officials against any attempt to impose candidates as the party prepares for a new era beyond President John Mahama.

In a press statement released on Saturday, March 21, he called for an immediate end to what he described as “nasty factionalism” within the party, cautioning that internal divisions risk undermining the credibility of the NDC’s democratic credentials.

He expressed concern over growing tensions among competing groups, noting that different shades of campaign machinery are already emerging and quietly attempting to outmanoeuvre one another ahead of the party’s presidential primaries.

Mr Agbey warned that, whether by design or default, the impending contest is shaping up to be a fierce internal battle, with analysts already predicting a high-stakes and potentially divisive primary.

While commending President Mahama for his public pledge not to interfere in the selection of his successor, Mr Agbey cautioned that the actions of some party and government officials could still tilt the playing field unfairly.

He stressed that no aspirant should be disadvantaged through the misuse of state or party structures, insisting that all candidates must be given a fair and equal opportunity to contest.

“To achieve true internal party democracy, party leaders, government officials and public agencies must appear neutral,” he said, adding that a party that claims to stand for equity must demonstrate that principle in practice.

Mr Agbey urged party faithful and delegates to uphold the values of transparency and fairness, describing them as “the most sophisticated electors” capable of safeguarding the integrity of the process.

He also called on all factions within the party to close ranks and avoid rancour, warning that internal bitterness could weaken the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

According to him, the NDC must learn from the New Patriotic Party's experience, which he claimed suffered setbacks in the 2024 elections due to the imposition of candidates and a disregard for grassroots voices.

Mr Agbey maintained that the NDC has a responsibility to lead by example as a democratic and progressive party, adding that the next generation of leadership must remain committed to the party’s founding ideals.

He concluded that while the current administration is delivering on key national issues, including addressing the cost of living, the future of the party depends on unity, fairness, and a transparent leadership transition process.