Don't fall for a trap to extend your stay in office - Sammi Awuku cautions Mahama

Sammi Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, cautioned President John Dramani Mahama against any attempt to extend his stay in office beyond his current term, warning that such a move could damage his political legacy. His comments followed a suit filed at the Supreme Court by Ghanaian teacher Ganiwu Alhassan, seeking an interpretation of Article 66(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which limits a person from being elected President more than twice. Awuku stated in a Facebook post, "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."

The plaintiff is asking the apex court to determine whether the provision applies strictly to two consecutive terms or whether it prevents a person who has already served two separate, non-consecutive terms from contesting again. The case has triggered public debate, with some commentators suggesting that a favourable interpretation could open the door for President Mahama to seek another term. Awuku, the former National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), argued that any attempt to extend his stay in office could generate internal and external resistance, including from members of the President's own party with presidential ambitions. He noted that even Rawlings, the founder of Mahama's party, didn't embark on this adventure.