Amid mounting debate over Ghana’s presidential term limits, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has sounded a cautionary note to President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to steer clear of what he describes as a “trap” intended to tarnish the President’s political legacy.
The controversy stems from a writ filed at the Supreme Court by Ghanaian teacher Ganiwu Alhassan, seeking interpretation of Article 66(2) of the 1992 Constitution. The clause states that no person shall be elected to hold the office of President for more than two terms. The lawsuit, however, argues that the provision only prohibits two consecutive terms, leaving the door open for someone who has served two non-consecutive terms to contest again.
This legal challenge has sparked widespread discussion, with analysts and commentators speculating it could pave the way for President Mahama to seek another term in office. Weighing in on the issue, Sammi Awuku took to Facebook to warn President Mahama not to be lured into what he believes is a scheme by some individuals, possibly within his own party, to undermine him.
“I have a funny suspicion that those behind the suits are plotting the eventual downfall of President Mahama. 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 wrote, delivering a pointed reminder that even former President Rawlings, the party founder, did not pursue such a path.
Awuku cautioned that with others already campaigning for the presidency within Mahama’s party, there is a risk that internal rivals could join forces with the opposition to damage his reputation. He advised the President to consider retiring with dignity in 2029, warning against actions that could provoke “endless demonstrations” and mar his political legacy.
The MP’s comments were issued in response to investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, who had earlier emphasized the need for President Mahama to be wary of those orchestrating the legal challenge, regardless of the court’s verdict.
Sammi Awuku’s remarks add another layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding Ghana’s constitutional provisions on term limits and the far-reaching political implications of the Supreme Court’s impending decision.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com