Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu says Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson could be a strong contender for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 elections, given his performance in managing Ghana's economy.
However, he believes the party's National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, could pose a strong challenge because of his considerable support at the grassroots.
Speaking during a discussion on TV3's The Key Point, Kpebu said that although Ato Forson had gained recognition for helping to stabilise the economy, Asiedu Nketia remained popular among ordinary party members.
“We all recognise that Asiedu Nketia is very popular in terms of the grassroots. He has a lot of grassroots support,” he stated.
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Kpebu explained that Dr Ato Forson's main strength was his role in improving Ghana's economic situation, particularly through efforts to stabilise the cedi and strengthen the country's foreign exchange position.
He also praised GoldBod Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi and his team for their role in supporting Ghana's gold trade and foreign exchange earnings, noting that their efforts formed part of the government's broader economic management strategy.
However, Kpebu acknowledged that challenges remained, particularly rising transport fares, which continue to affect ordinary Ghanaians.
According to him, some commercial transport operators had increased fares beyond the reported 8 per cent adjustment, placing additional financial pressure on passengers.
He therefore called on the Ministry of Transport to investigate the situation and ensure that commuters were not overcharged.
Despite these challenges, Kpebu maintained that the government had made progress in stabilising the economy and reducing wasteful spending.
He also pointed to the government's planned New Economy Policy, expected to feature in the November 2026 Budget, as another important component of its economic programme.
“Based on the economy and his youthful nature, you would ordinarily say Ato Forson should be in a good stead to clinch the flagbearer race,” he said.
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However, Kpebu stressed that Asiedu Nketia's strong grassroots support made it difficult to predict the outcome of a potential contest.
He added that other candidates could also emerge, noting that the final decision would rest with NDC delegates.
Election 2028: Based on the performance of the economy, Ato Forson should be in good standing to clinch the flagbearer position, but Asiedu Nketia is on the ground, which makes it really difficult. - Martin Kpebu, Private Legal Practitioner #TheKeyPoints #TV3GH https://t.co/3X7OFAGM37
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