The Minority in Parliament has challenged President John Dramani Mahama to publicly and unequivocally state his non-interest in seeking a third term on Ghanaian soil, rather than repeating the assurance only on international platforms.
According to the Minority, recent comments by President Mahama during an engagement in Singapore, where he reportedly indicated he has no intention of pursuing a third term, are insufficient to calm growing public anxiety at home.
Addressing the media on Monday at a press conference dubbed ‘Holding Government to Account, a Year of Active and Responsible Minority Scrutiny in Ghana’s 9th Parliament, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin argued that the President owes Ghanaians a clear, direct assurance within the country, particularly at a time when sections of the public and civil society are raising concerns about constitutional fidelity and democratic backsliding.
“Mr President should tell Ghanaians directly, not audiences abroad, that he has no interest in a third term. If he truly means it, he should repeat it here at home so that his party members and supporters hear it clearly,” the Minority leader stated.
He warned that persistent silence on the issue within Ghana risks emboldening individuals within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) who may be pushing an unconstitutional agenda.
He stressed that Ghana’s democratic stability depends not only on constitutional text but on the conduct, clarity, and restraint of political leaders.
The Minority leader accused the government of weakening democratic institutions through selective enforcement of the law, erosion of parliamentary scrutiny, and what he described as increasing political interference in state institutions.
He cautioned the judiciary against actions that could undermine public confidence, insisting that Ghanaians are closely watching how sensitive constitutional matters are handled.
“When leaders speak clearly and act consistently, democracy is strengthened. Ambiguity creates room for suspicion, manipulation, and instability,” the Minority Leader cautioned.
The Minority reaffirmed its commitment to resisting any attempt to undermine Ghana’s Constitution and pledged to intensify parliamentary oversight, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle.
Hon. Afenyo-Markin stressed that the call is not partisan but rooted in the collective duty to protect Ghana’s democratic legacy and prevent avoidable constitutional crises.
