President John Mahama
Seeking to impute ambiguity in the constitutionally stated presidential term limit is to be advancing the cause of a sinister agenda-setting group of hypocrites and bootlickers.
The General Secretary of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Kwetey, did not mince words when he described those on this mission as in the foregone – hypocrites and bootlickers.
What better alternative expression is there for such persons who could not care a hoot about the future of the country as they drive the President on this dangerous mission?
It is silly, even crazy, to be proceeding to the apex court for an interpretation of a subject which is clearly spelt out.
Time was it when closed door discussions were held on the possibility of manipulating the law to give a different meaning to the unambiguous presidential term limit as enshrined in the constitution should the incumbent President be blessed with another tenure.
The project has resurfaced with a complex subtlety to make it look like the beneficiary is indifferent or not in favour of it at all.
President John Mahama has told Ghanaians that he has read the constitution over and over again regarding the presidential term limit and acknowledges the fact that he has two terms only. Some citizens have however gone to court to seek interpretation of this subject, he said. That is their choice, he pointed out. This means that whatever the outcome, he will stand by it.
We are resisting the temptation to think that he has the blessing of those who have gone to court seeking an interpretation of the presidential term limit provision which is not ambiguous at all.
He could have dealt the subject a decisive blow by telling those behind the effort at upending the constitutional provision that they should come of it. Such ambiguous remarks do not help the cause of democracy as far as deference for the constitution is concerned.
They do not wish President Mahama well who are insisting on embarking on this unproductive and toxic project.
The current efforts by the third-term agenda setters and alteration of the chemistry of the judiciary, some have observed, all lead to the fulfilment of a grand scheme.
Neighbouring countries which altered their constitution to achieve third terms or even indefinite occupation of the helm applied similar tactics. No, not in Ghana.
President Mahama is hereby advised to steer clear of this poisonous chalice.
President Mahama has said it severally that he is serving his last term. He is not rendering Ghana a favour but simply respecting the country’s Magna Carta as he swore to do. Any attempt at varying this constitutional order will be inimical to the interest of the nation and Ghanaians will resist it.