Member of Parliament (MP) for the Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku has cautioned President John Mahama against falling into a trap of attempting to seek for a third term in office. The caution from the lawmaker follows two suits at the Supreme Court seeking an interpretation of Ghana’s presidential term limit to allow President Mahama go for a third term.
Managing Editor for the Daily Searchlight Newspaper and lawyer Kenneth Agyei Kuranchie and another private citizen from the Northern Region filed suits asking the Apex Court to rule that the two-term limit under Article 66(2) applies only to presidents who serve two consecutive terms, arguing that a four-year break should restore eligibility for another two consecutive terms.
Reacting to the development, Awuku cautioned the lawsuits could have political consequences for the President if its interpretation is accepted.
“I have a funny suspicion that those behind the suits are plotting the eventual downfall of President Mahama,” he wrote.
Addressing Mahama directly, he added, “Mr President, they don’t wish you well. Don’t fall for this trap and don’t be persuaded to drink a cup of ‘poison’ prepared by detractors in your own party.”
Awuku also referenced former President Jerry John Rawlings, saying he did not pursue such a path, and urged Mahama to leave office at the end of his current tenure.
“Retire in dignity in 2029. You don’t need endless demonstrations to end your successful political career,” he wrote.
