Ghana Supreme Court to rule on Mahama's eligibility for a third presidential term

A petition filed by teacher Ganiwu Alhassan seeks a Ghana Supreme Court interpretation of Article 66(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which limits any individual to two presidential terms. The suit asks whether the restriction applies only to consecutive terms, potentially allowing former President John Dramani Mahama to run again.

New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials have publicly rejected the petition. Spokesperson Akosua Manu urged the justices to “think about the long term” and said, “Please throw that petition away.” Party lawyer Gabby Asare Otchere‑Darko warned that accepting a non‑consecutive‑term reading would let Mahama contest elections through 2044, calling it “rewriting the Constitution.” MP Sammi Awuku cautioned Mahama against any “political trap,” adding, “Don’t fall for this trap and don’t be persuaded to drink a cup of ‘poison’ prepared by detractors.”

The case has sparked extensive debate over constitutional limits and the potential impact on Ghana’s political landscape, with the Supreme Court’s upcoming decision expected to shape future electoral contests.