Franklin Cudjoe Hails Haruna Iddrisu’s Political Influence and Leadership Record

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Published: May 28 2026

Published at: 7:44am

Story by Saibu Terry

Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has praised the political leadership and influence of former Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, describing his role in Parliament and within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as “phenomenal.”

In a strongly worded reflection, Cudjoe highlighted Haruna Iddrisu’s contributions during some of Ghana’s most intense parliamentary moments, including his role in debates surrounding the controversial Agyapa Royalties Deal. According to him, several lawmakers who rose through the ranks under Haruna’s leadership later became ministers, citing figures such as Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah among others.

Cudjoe argued that Haruna’s impressive political track record has fueled growing perceptions that he could emerge as a future presidential candidate for the NDC after the era of John Dramani Mahama.

He further suggested that recent comments by NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah — popularly known as “General Mosquito” — may have unintentionally elevated Haruna’s stature. Asiedu Nketiah had reportedly implied during a conversation with party members that Haruna’s removal from parliamentary leadership contributed to the NDC’s electoral success.

According to Cudjoe, if one individual’s political influence could significantly impact the fortunes of a major political party, then Haruna’s abilities could become even more valuable when positively deployed in future national elections.

The policy analyst also described Haruna Iddrisu as one of the strongest political pillars in Northern Ghana, noting that he remains highly influential across the Northern, North East, Savannah, and Upper regions. He credited the Tamale South MP for mentoring many politicians and sustaining the NDC’s strength in the north during the party’s years in opposition.

Cudjoe additionally praised Haruna’s political pragmatism, particularly his stance during discussions around possible impeachment proceedings against former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He noted that Haruna chose political stability and strategic engagement over confrontation at a critical time in Ghana’s democratic journey.

He concluded by acknowledging Haruna Iddrisu’s behind-the-scenes role in strengthening the NDC’s presence even in strongholds traditionally considered difficult for the party, including parts of the Ashanti Region.