Leading contender in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairmanship race, Stephen Ayesu Ntim has expressed optimism of claiming victory as the next Chairman of the party when the party goes to Congress later next month.

Mr Ntim who set the stage for the contest by picking his nomination forms last week has also disclosed that all impediments that may hinder his victory have all been cleared and expressed hope in the assurance of delegates that he will be fourth time lucky in his bid.

The former National First Vice Chairman of NPP goes into the contest as one of the experienced candidates with a vast knowledge of grassroots mobilization as well as his exposure of serving in pivotal working committees of the party.

Throughout his previous contests, he placed second, showed grace and continued to work for the party; continued playing within the larger team and keeping his financial and logistical support for the party flowing more than ever.

Speaking to the media after picking his nomination forms at the party’s headquarters in Asylum Down, Mr Ntim maintained that the time has come for him to take over the mantle of leadership of the party.

This he disclosed resonates with his slogan ‘Time Aso’ to wit the time is now “Everyone believes it is time for Ntim to ascend to the chair and I believe it, I don’t doubt it”.

He disclosed that he has been through thick and thin with the delegates who themselves have given him the assurance he worked hard and deserved the grown but said not being complacent he still goes round to educate them on his vision for the elephant family.

According to him, his vision for the party stretches beyond 2024.

He has therefore made a strong case against what appears to be the norm under the fourth republic where the ruling government is given only a two-term mandate indicating that it is better in cases of the non-performing but must be given some extension under a performing administration.

He observed that the current administration is proving its worth and must not be limited to a two-term mandate as always been the case.