Member of Parliament (MP) for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has cautioned President John Dramani Mahama not to back any attempt to extend his presidency, warning of a “poison” trap being set by persons within his own party.
The warning comes as the Supreme Court prepares to interpret Article 66 of the 1992 Constitution on presidential term limits.
Three separate suits are before the court. One was filed in January 2026 by Anchoring Democracy Advocate Movement Ghana (ADAM-GH), a group that advocates against corruption and protects the rule of law. ADAM-GH is seeking a declaration that no person can be elected president for more than two terms.
The second suit was filed by Ken Kuranchie, a journalist, lawyer, and political activist known to be a member of the NPP. He argues that the president is eligible for a third term.
The third was filed on July 9, 2026 by Ganiwu Alhassan, a teacher from Kpandai in the Northern Region. Mr. Alhassan is asking the court to rule that an individual who has served two non-consecutive terms is still qualified to run for office. According to his petition, Article 66(2) merely prohibits someone from serving two consecutive terms and does not disqualify someone who has served two independent and different terms.
In a Facebook post on Friday, July 10, Mr. Awuku was reacting to journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, who wrote: “Whichever way the Supreme Court rules, President Mahama must not fall for the ruinous trap being set by those behind the suits.”
Mr. Awuku said he has a “funny suspicion that those behind the suits are plotting the eventual downfall of President Mahama.”
“Mr. President, they don’t wish you well. Don’t fall for this trap, and don’t be persuaded to drink a cup of ‘poison’ prepared by detractors in your own party,” he wrote.
The MP referenced former President Jerry John Rawlings, stating that “Even Rawlings, the founder of your party didn’t embark on this adventure.”
He further warned that there are people in the NDC already campaigning to be president who “will join hands with the opposition to nail you big time.”
Mr. Awuku advised President Mahama to “Retire in Dignity in 2029,” adding that “You don’t need endless demonstrations to end your successful political career.”
