Rumors are circulating in Ghana that President John Dramani Mahama may be considering a third-term bid in 2028.
While no official statement has been made by Mahama or his government, discussions about the possibility have sparked heated debates across the country.
Some believe he is laying the groundwork for a constitutional amendment, while others dismiss these claims as baseless political speculation.
Supporters of the theory argue that Mahama’s recent actions, including his rumored plans to remove the Chief Justice, could be strategic steps to change the constitution in his favor.
On the other hand, his defenders insist that he has always upheld democracy and would never manipulate the system for personal gain.
As these debates intensify, Ghanaians are left with more questions than answers. Could Mahama really be planning a third term, or is this just another political distraction? Let’s take a closer look at the key factors fueling this controversy.
What the law says about a third term
Ghana’s constitution clearly defines presidential term limits. Article 66(2) of the 1992 Constitution states that a person can only serve as president for two terms. Since Mahama previously served from 2012 to 2016 and won another term in 2024, his eligibility for a third term would be impossible under the current law.
For Mahama to run again in 2028, the constitution needs to be amended. This is no small task, as it requires approval from Parliament and a public referendum. The big question is whether Mahama’s government would dare attempt such a move, knowing the political risks involved.
The Chief Justice controversy
One of the most controversial claims surrounding Mahama’s rumored third-term bid is that he intends to remove the current Chief Justice and replace her with a loyalist from his party. Critics believe this could be a calculated move to ensure that legal barriers to a third term are removed.
The judiciary plays a critical role in upholding the constitution, and any changes to the Chief Justice position would likely attract scrutiny. However, there is currently no concrete evidence that Mahama plans to take such an action. Could this claim be another political rumor aimed at discrediting him?
Mahama’s silence: What does it mean?
Despite the growing speculation, Mahama has not made any public statements regarding the rumors. This silence has led to mixed interpretations.
Some believe he is ignoring the speculation because there is no truth to it. Others argue that his silence could be a strategic move to test public reaction before making any official announcements. If Mahama has no intention of seeking a third term, why not address the rumors directly?
Public reaction to the speculation
The idea of a Mahama third-term bid has divided public opinion. Many Ghanaians strongly oppose any attempts to amend the constitution, fearing it would set a dangerous precedent.
However, some of his supporters believe that if he continues to perform well, he should be allowed to serve beyond the current term limits. The discussion has taken over social media, radio, and TV talk shows, with both sides passionately defending their views.
The opposition’s view on the matter
Opposition parties have been quick to attack Mahama over these rumors. They argue that any attempt to change the constitution to extend his time in office would be a betrayal of democracy.
Several opposition leaders have already vowed to resist any such move, warning that it could lead to political unrest. Some have also accused Mahama’s government of trying to test public reaction before officially attempting to amend the constitution.
Could this be a political strategy?
Some analysts believe the rumors could be a political tactic rather than a serious plan.
It is not uncommon in politics for opponents to spread speculation in order to weaken a leader’s public image. By fueling these rumors, Mahama’s critics might be trying to create doubt about his leadership and distract from his governance.
On the other hand, there is also the possibility that Mahama’s allies are floating the idea to see how the public reacts before taking any concrete steps.
Mahama’s legacy: Would he risk it?
Mahama has built a reputation as a leader who respects democratic principles. After losing the 2016 election, he peacefully handed over power, setting an example for other African leaders.
Would he now risk his legacy by attempting to change the constitution for personal gain? Some believe he values his reputation too much to take such a controversial step. Others argue that political ambition often pushes leaders to make unexpected decisions.
If Mahama were to pursue a third term, he would face strong opposition from civil society, the judiciary, and the Ghanaian public.
What history teaches us about third-term attempts
Across Africa, several leaders have tried to extend their time in office by amending their countries’ constitutions.
In some cases, like Rwanda and Uganda, these amendments succeeded, allowing the leaders to remain in power. However, in other countries, such attempts led to public protests, political instability, and in some cases, even coups.
Ghana has long been seen as a strong democracy, and any attempt to extend presidential term limits could threaten that reputation.
The role of Parliament in any constitutional change
If Mahama were to pursue a third term, Parliament would be central to the process.
Amending the constitution requires a two-thirds majority vote in Parliament before it can be put to a public referendum. The current composition of Parliament makes it uncertain whether Mahama’s party would be able to secure enough votes to pass such a law.
Even if the amendment were to pass through Parliament, Ghanaians would have the final say through a national referendum. Would the people support such a move?
The uncertainty of the future
For now, these are just rumors and speculations. There is no official confirmation that Mahama is considering a third term, but the debate continues to dominate political discussions.
As time goes on, the truth will become clearer. Until Mahama addresses the issue, Ghanaians will continue to speculate about what the future holds for the country’s leadership.
Would you support a constitutional amendment for Mahama to run again, or do you think Ghana should stick to the two-term limit? Share your thoughts!
