The New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ghana's main opposition party, has taken a significant step by filing a petition with the Supreme Court to clarify the eligibility of President John Dramani Mahama for the 2028 presidential election. This move comes amid debates over the interpretation of constitutional provisions limiting presidential terms. The NPP, through its lawyer Godfred Yeboah Dame, seeks an interpretation of the constitutional provisions regarding the limitation of presidential mandates.
The petition, filed on July 28, 2026, specifically asks the Supreme Court to determine if the constitutional limit of two presidential terms applies to the total duration of an individual's presidency, regardless of whether the terms are consecutive or not. This question arises from the NPP's concern about the possibility of President Mahama running for a third term in 2028, having previously served from 2013 to 2017 and then regaining power in 2025.
The NPP's action is influenced by recent developments in other African countries where attempts to modify presidential term limits have led to political instability. The party cites the evolution of constitutional provisions in various countries, emphasizing the importance of clarity on this matter to prevent potential unrest in Ghana. The Supreme Court's interpretation is expected to provide a definitive stance on whether President Mahama can contest the 2028 election.
President Mahama has previously stated that he does not intend to run for another term. During a state visit to Singapore in August 2025, he mentioned that he would not be a candidate in the next elections, emphasizing his commitment to fiscal discipline. He reiterated this stance on July 17, 2026, during a tour in the Volta region, highlighting his focus on fulfilling the promises made to Ghanaians during his previous mandates.
The Ghanaian Constitution of 1992, specifically Article 66, states that no person shall be elected to the presidency for more than two terms. This provision is one of the entrenched clauses of the Constitution, which can only be amended through a referendum. The Supreme Court's ruling will be crucial in clarifying the legal principles governing presidential term limits in Ghana.
The NPP's petition reflects a broader debate about democratic governance and the rule of law in Ghana. By seeking a judicial interpretation, the party aims to ensure that any future electoral processes are guided by clear and unambiguous constitutional provisions. This move underscores the NPP's commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring that Ghana's political processes are transparent and fair.
The Supreme Court's decision on this matter will have significant implications for Ghana's political landscape. It will not only determine President Mahama's eligibility for the 2028 election but also set a precedent for future interpretations of the Constitution. As Ghana continues to consolidate its democratic institutions, the court's ruling will be closely watched by both local and international observers.
Key points
- The NPP has filed a petition with the Supreme Court to determine if President John Dramani Mahama is eligible to run in the 2028 presidential election.
- President Mahama has previously stated that he does not intend to run for another term.
- The Supreme Court's ruling will clarify the interpretation of the constitutional limit of two presidential terms.
