Ghana's largest opposition party and one of its largest political players, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), marked its 33rd anniversary yesterday in an outburst of tributes, reminisces, and fresh appeals for unity and national rebirth.

Founded on 10 June 1992 by the late Flt Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, the NDC, whose roots lay in the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) years, was the vehicle for Ghana's return to multiparty democracy.

Also see: Sam George: As the government examines the nearly 39% telecom tax, data costs may decrease even more.

The establishment of the party occurred in the wake of continuous local and international calls for democratic transformation after the PNDC's 11-year military rule. Rawlings won the 1992 elections to become the first president of the Fourth Republic on the NDC ticket. 

Mahama Leads Tributes with Call for "Resetting Ghana"

Ex-President John Dramani Mahama, a leading party figure and the most likely party flagbearer for the 2024 election, commemorated the day on social media.
"Today, with pride, we celebrate 33 years of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) being born, an attestation to the enduring legacy of our irrepressible dedication… and that of our founder, Jerry John Rawlings."

Mahama congratulated the sacrifice of party activists and founders who have shaped the democratic terrain of Ghana. In his rallying call to members and supporters across the globe, he called for a recommitment to the ideals of the party and a collective effort to "reset Ghana."
"May our 33rd anniversary milestone energize us to redouble our efforts… and build on our gains."

Zanetor Rawlings

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, MP and daughter of the party leader, stepped forward to pay respect to the heritage of the party in a heartfelt tribute to her father and his vision.

"Unity, Stability, Development is the slogan of the NDC… founded on the assumption that the party already practises the values of accountability, transparency, probity, and integrity."

Dr. Rawlings called for a national reawakening based on transgenerational justice, institutional change, and conscious rejection of self-interest in political leadership.

"We should be loyal to our principles… and serve the people of Ghana in honour, integrity, humility, and dignity."

Her own message, both introspective and aspirational, was given an underlying desire for leadership putting Ghana first ahead of individual or partisan interests.

Fifi Kwetey

NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey also participated in the ceremonies with a statement summarizing the party's history and destiny.

"Today is 33 years since the NDC was born — a party that has stood firm in the struggle for democracy, social justice, and the well-being of all Ghanaians."
Kwetey reiterated the party's commitment to reconstituting national institutions and providing opportunities for all Ghanaian people, making the NDC the vehicle of a new national agenda.
"We are on course to reset Ghana — to restore hope, rebuild institutions, and create opportunities for all."

From Military Roots to Democratic Mainstay

The development of the NDC from its origins in the PNDC military administration to its maturation as a pillar of Ghana's multiparty system has been marked by achievement and hardship. It has had winning and losing national election experiences, navigated economic reform, and endured internal divisions.
Starting its 34th year, the party is poised to be back in power, fueled by its past and inspired by the renewed leadership spirit to alter the direction of the country's future.