Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed gratitude to Ernest Kobea for supporting him by withdrawing from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer competition.

Kobea who was one of four members of the NDC to pick presidential nomination forms, announced his withdrawal from the race on Wednesday, March 29

The party has scheduled Saturday, May 13 on which to go to polls to elect the man to lead its presidential campaign in next year’s elections.

Four persons including Mr Kobeah had picked nomination forms to contest the primaries.They have all since been vetted.

On Tuesday, March 28 when he faced the Vetting Committee, Mr Kobeah was asked to return with some documents.

He was, however, full of praise for the Committee members, describing the brief process as “successful”.

“There is no issue,” he told journalists after facing the Committee.

“Just [that] I need to come back tomorrow [Wednesday]. Everything is fine and successful.”

His withdrawal leaves Mr Mahama, Dr Kwabena Duffuor and Kojo Bonsu as the aspirants awaiting the Vetting Committee’s report for clearance or otherwise to contest the primaries.

Commenting on his Facebook page,Mr Mahama said “Balloting has been done for the May 13 presidential primaries and John Mahama is No.1 on the ballot.

“I thank you all for your dedication, support and prayers through it all, thus far. I also want to thank my younger brother, Ernest who has not only stepped down from the contest, but has declared his support for me.”