Accra, Ghana – Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor has publicly defended the ongoing nationwide tour by National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, popularly known as General Mosquito, refuting claims that it is a clandestine campaign for the party’s next presidential candidacy. Dafeamekpor challenged critics to present evidence of Asiedu Nketia explicitly declaring presidential ambitions during his engagements.
Context of the Tour
The controversy arises from Asiedu Nketia’s extensive ‘Thank You’ tour, which has seen him visiting various constituencies across the country. This tour has been interpreted by some within the political landscape as a strategic move to bolster his profile and position himself as a potential flagbearer for the NDC in future elections.
However, Dafeamekpor asserts that the tour is a pre-planned, post-election engagement strategy initiated in April 2025, following the government’s ministerial appointments and regional tours. He stated that the initiative stemmed from concerns raised within the party’s national executive meetings regarding the perceived lack of direct appreciation for grassroots supporters and constituency executives following the NDC’s return to power.
The argument presented is that after eight years in opposition, the party faithful felt a need for direct acknowledgment from the party’s leadership, not just the presidential candidate. Dafeamekpor highlighted the significant logistical challenges involved in mobilizing for such a widespread tour across numerous constituencies, explaining the methodical pace at which it is being conducted.
Challenging the Narrative
Dafeamekpor directly contested the notion that the tour provides Asiedu Nketia with an undue advantage over other potential presidential contenders within the NDC. He questioned how visiting party members and stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community groups, to express gratitude could be construed as a presidential campaign strategy.
Furthermore, the South Dayi MP dismissed suggestions that the current tour’s visibility distinguishes it from similar initiatives undertaken by Asiedu Nketia in the past. He recalled a similar extensive tour conducted by the chairman in his own constituency after the 2020 general elections.
During that post-2020 tour, Asiedu Nketia reportedly visited multiple zones within the South Dayi constituency, engaging with supporters. According to Dafeamekpor’s account, the chairman’s message then was one of solidarity and encouragement, acknowledging the disputed election results while rallying the base for future battles.
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