Former Tamale Central MP Inusah Fuseini has called on President John Dramani Mahama to reject any potential third-term bid, even if the Supreme Court rules in favour of it. Speaking on Channel One TV's The Big Issue on October 31, 2026, Fuseini emphasized that constitutional term limits must be respected. He expressed concerns about the implications of African leaders manipulating constitutional provisions to prolong their stay in office, citing the often-resulting undermining of democratic institutions and fuelled political instability.
Fuseini's comments come amid a legal challenge filed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) at the Supreme Court, seeking clarity on constitutional provisions governing presidential tenure. The NPP is asking the court to determine whether an individual may serve only two four-year presidential terms in total, irrespective of whether the terms are separated by a period out of office. This challenge has sparked a national debate on the interpretation of the 1992 Constitution.
According to Fuseini, the Constitution already restricts a president to two terms, arguing that Article 66(2) makes no distinction between consecutive and non-consecutive presidential mandates. He stressed that his concerns extend beyond the legal interpretation of the Constitution to the broader consequences of attempts to alter constitutional arrangements for political gain.
Fuseini warned that efforts by incumbent leaders to extend their tenure through constitutional changes often shrink democratic space and concentrate excessive power in the presidency. This, he cautioned, can erode public confidence in state institutions and create perceptions that the judiciary is being influenced to deliver rulings that favour those in power.
The former MP's advice to President Mahama is rooted in his concerns about the potential consequences of tampering with the Constitution. He urged Mahama not to pursue a third term, even if the Supreme Court rules in favour of it, saying, "Even if the Supreme Court were to rule that a president can serve more than two terms, I would pray that John Dramani Mahama does not pursue that path."
Fuseini's stance has been met with attention, given his experience as a legislator and his insight into the country's constitutional framework. His comments add to the growing debate on the presidential term limits and the role of the Supreme Court in clarifying the constitutional provisions.
The issue of presidential term limits remains a contentious topic in Ghana's politics, with various stakeholders weighing in on the matter. As the Supreme Court prepares to rule on the NPP's challenge, Fuseini's advice to President Mahama serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting constitutional term limits and the potential risks associated with attempts to alter them.
Key points
- Former MP Inusah Fuseini urges President Mahama not to seek a third term.
- Fuseini cites concerns about undermining democratic institutions and fuelling political instability.
- The Supreme Court is set to rule on a challenge to the constitutional provisions governing presidential tenure.
