As Ghana heads toward its 2024 general election, an unlikely figure has risen as a critical player on the political chessboard.

Kwabena Agyeman Appiah Kubi, popularly known as Roman Fada, was recently appointed as running mate by the late Akua Donkor, founder and leader of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP).

He now finds himself in an unexpected position of power.

As Hamlet’s play quotes, “There is a special providence in the fall of a sparrow….the readiness is all,” Roman Fada was ready to flow with Madam Akua Donkor until his flagbearer died after a short illness.

In the wake of Madam Donkor’s passing, the futures of Ghana’s political giants the New Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) hinge on his decision to either contest the election or withdraw, making him arguably the most important man in the upcoming polls.

The weight of ballot positions: An advantage for the NDC

In Ghana’s political arena, ballot positions carry significant symbolic and strategic weight. For former President John Mahama and the NDC, securing the number 8 slot on the ballot has become critical.

This position could potentially influence voter psychology and bolster the NDC’s campaign with the “Breaking the 8” slogan. However, if Roman Fada decides not to contest, the number 8 slot could shift, creating a ripple effect that might destabilize the NDC’s plans.

With the stakes high, Roman Fada finds himself as the linchpin of the ballot lineup. His decision will determine whether Mahama’s NDC secures a position considered auspicious in local political lore. The NPP, on the other hand, could gain a competitive edge if Roman Fada steps back, reducing Mahama’s ballot number to 7, a shift that could dent the NDC’s momentum.

A legacy and a challenge

Roman Fada’s situation is further complicated by the legacy of Madam Akua Donkor. Known for her fervent advocacy for farmers and women’s rights, Madam Donkor was a prominent voice for grassroots issues, and Roman Fada’s selection as her running mate was seen as a continuation of her mission.

I remember enjoying that interesting interview on Atinka FM where Madam Akua Donkor justified the selection of Roman Fada as running mate. She said, “I chose Roman Fada because I’ve read him like a newspaper and I believe he is the best to maintain my legacy.”

However, taking up the mantle of her legacy comes with challenges. The GFP has historically been heavily reliant on Madam Donkor’s personal influence and resources, and her absence raises pressing questions about the party’s sustainability. Roman Fada, now in the position to lead, must weigh his loyalty to Donkor’s vision against the substantial financial and logistical burdens required to keep the GFP operational and competitive.

The legal maze and political calculations

In addition to the strategic and financial considerations, Roman Fada faces a web of legal implications. As Madam Donkor’s appointed running mate, he has a legitimate claim to lead the GFP into the election.

However, party dynamics and legal technicalities could potentially complicate his next steps, especially if there are contesting voices within the GFP or stakeholders who might seek a different path.

Ghana’s legal framework on succession within political parties does grant Roman Fada an opportunity to step into Madam Donkor’s shoes, but it also demands transparency in the decision-making process. Should he choose to contest, he may encounter legal challenges from rivals or face lobbying from the NPP and NDC, each side eager to sway his choice in favor of their own campaign agendas.

A season of lobbying and a nation on edge

This has become Roman Fada’s “challenging moment,” but others call it cocoa season, a time when his influence has reached unprecedented levels. With both the NDC and the NPP in a tug-of-war for the ballot, he has found himself at the center of intense lobbying.

The NDC, led by John Mahama, will need to ensure his commitment to the race to maintain their desired ballot position. Meanwhile, the NPP will be maneuvering to dissuade him, seeing an opportunity to disrupt Mahama’s strategy.

In Ghana’s political landscape, where legacy, strategy, and numbers intertwine, Roman Fada’s next move has become the linchpin of the 2024 election. As the country waits, one thing is certain: the decision of one man may very well shape the future of Ghana’s leadership.

The whole country is waiting to hear from Fada, but Heaven alone knows.