2028 Ghana Elections: Nana Yaa Jantuah Predicts Heavy Defeat for NPP Candidates

Introduction

The political landscape in Ghana is already shifting ahead of the 2028 general elections, despite the fact that the 2024 polls have only recently concluded. In a candid interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on January 22, 2026, Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah made a bold prediction regarding the future of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). She asserted that any candidate who contests on the NPP’s ticket in 2028 faces an inevitable and “abysmal” defeat. This analysis delves into her statements, the context of the current administration under President John Mahama, and the strategic challenges facing the NPP. This article provides a comprehensive look at the political dynamics, economic indicators, and party rebuilding strategies relevant to Ghana’s upcoming electoral cycle.

Key Points

Background

To understand the gravity of Nana Yaa Jantuah’s statements, one must look at the trajectory of Ghanaian politics following the December 2024 general elections. The New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has historically been one of the two major political forces in Ghana alongside the National Democratic Congress (NDC), faced significant setbacks in 2024. The election resulted in a victory for the NDC, returning John Mahama to the presidency.

Political “aftershocks” following a loss are common in Ghanaian party politics. These often involve internal factionalism, blame games regarding campaign strategy, and the need to reorganize party structures at the grassroots level. Nana Yaa Jantuah’s comments come in this context—referencing a party that is still processing the electoral loss and struggling to find a unified path forward.

Furthermore, the 2028 elections will mark the end of President Mahama’s current term (assuming he serves the full four years). In Ghanaian political culture, incumbency provides a significant advantage, often referred to as the ” incumbency factor.” Jantuah’s analysis leans heavily on this factor, suggesting that the momentum currently lies with the ruling party.

Analysis

The NPP’s Strategic Dilemma

Nana Yaa Jantuah’s assertion that the NPP is not ready to compete effectively in 2028 is rooted in the concept of political recovery cycles. Historically, opposition parties that suffer decisive defeats require time to restructure. Jantuah argues that the “aftershocks” of 2024 are still palpable, making it difficult for the NPP to mount a “reputable comeback” within a short four-year window.

She suggests a tactical pivot: focusing on parliamentary elections rather than the presidency. This is a strategic observation. In Ghana, it is often easier for opposition parties to retain or gain seats in parliament than to win the executive presidency. A strong parliamentary presence allows a party to check the government’s power and build a foundation for a future presidential bid. By advising the NPP to field parliamentary candidates, Jantuah implies that the party should consolidate its legislative base before attempting to recapture the Jubilee House.

The Incumbency Advantage: Economic Indicators

A key pillar of Jantuah’s argument is the performance of the current administration. She highlights tangible improvements in the economic environment, specifically citing the reduction in petroleum prices. Fuel prices are a critical barometer of the Ghanaian economy, influencing transportation costs, inflation, and general cost of living.

Jantuah noted that she filled her vehicle for as low as GH¢200, a figure she presents as evidence of economic stabilization under President Mahama. When the cost of living decreases and fuel prices stabilize, the incumbent government typically enjoys increased public goodwill. This economic relief creates a favorable environment for the ruling party (in this case, the NDC) heading into the next election cycle.

International Recognition and Leadership

Beyond domestic economics, Jantuah referenced President Mahama’s receipt of the Kwame Nkrumah Leadership Award in West Africa. This accolade is significant as it places the President’s leadership in a regional context. Awards of this nature can enhance a leader’s image both locally and internationally, framing them as a statesman capable of regional diplomacy and effective governance. For the opposition, countering such recognition requires a compelling alternative narrative, which Jantuah suggests the NPP currently lacks.

Practical Advice

For political analysts, party strategists, and observers of Ghanaian democracy, Jantuah’s insights offer several practical takeaways regarding the 2028 elections.

For the NPP (Opposition Strategy)

• Internal Reconciliation: The immediate priority for the NPP should be healing internal divisions. A fractured party cannot present a unified front to the electorate.
• Grassroots Mobilization: Instead of focusing on a presidential candidate immediately, resources should be channeled into strengthening constituency-level organizations.
• Policy Critique: To challenge an incumbent successfully, the opposition must move beyond rhetoric and offer detailed policy alternatives that address the specific needs of the electorate.

For Voters and Observers

• Economic Monitoring: Voters should continue to monitor economic indicators such as fuel prices, inflation rates, and job creation figures as the 2028 election approaches.
• Candidate Vetting: As parties begin to announce aspirants, voters should assess candidates based on their track record and ability to unite rather than divide.

FAQ

Conclusion

Nana Yaa Jantuah’s prediction serves as a stark warning to the New Patriotic Party regarding their prospects in the 2028 Ghana general elections. Her analysis highlights the importance of economic stability under President John Mahama and the necessity for the NPP to engage in deep introspection and rebuilding. While the political landscape can shift rapidly, her argument underscores the current momentum favoring the incumbent administration. For the NPP to mount a competitive challenge in 2028, significant strategic shifts and a resolution of internal conflicts will be essential. As the election cycle approaches, observers will be watching closely to see if the NPP can transform these challenges into opportunities.