Popularity not key to victory - Prof. Gyampo tells Mahama

A Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Gyampo has warned that Former President Mahama would lose the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential race if he depends on popularity.

According to him, the former leader should look beyond popularity within his party to cause acceptance for himself.

Speaking on an Accra based FM Station, he said “There is a difference between popularity and acceptance. In the 2016 election Mahama was popular but in spite of the popularity he still lost the election.”

Professor Gyampo’s comment comes after John Mahama officially declared his intention to contest in the party’s presidential primaries.

Several political analysts have waded into Mr. Mahama’s decision to contest for the party’s seat.

Whereas some perceive it as a wrong move, others believe he has the capabilities to lead the party in the 2020 Presidential elections.

Mr. Mahama would be facing stiffer competition from the likes of Sylvester Mensah former CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority, Alban Bagbin, MP for Nadoli Kaleo, Ekow Spio-Garbrah and Joshua Alabi who have already expressed their intent to contest ahead of the party’s polls.

However, Professor Gyampo believes the former President stands tall amongst the other candidates who have declared their intentions, but would lose if he thrives on popularity.

He said “Mahama may be popular within his party but he should also be mindful that the others are also working hard behind the scenes.”

Meanwhile, former Trade Minister under the erstwhile Mahama government, Dr. Spio Gabrah, who also intends to contest in the race, has warned party delegates against voting for Mahama in the upcoming party elections.

According to him, the description of Mahama being incompetent during the 2016 elections would go against the party should he be voted to lead the party in the 2020 Presidential elections.

The NDC is expected to hold its Presidential elections on December 7, this year.

The one who emerges victorious would lead the party to contest in the 2020 general election.