Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his decision not to seek a third term in office during a high-level meeting with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders. The meeting, held at the Flagstaff House shortly before President Mahama's departure for the United Kingdom, was convened to address growing concerns over succession campaigns within the party.
According to Ghana Web, President Mahama used the closed-door consultation to dispel speculation about a potential third-term bid. The discussion involved senior party figures, including those with ties to the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) era, and was chaired by Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu. The meeting sought to quell premature succession activities that could disrupt party unity.
President Mahama reiterated his stance against seeking another term, a position he initially announced during a state visit to Singapore last year. Despite calls from some supporters to explore constitutional loopholes for another bid, both the President and NDC leadership have consistently dismissed such suggestions, emphasizing their commitment to Ghana's constitutional two-term limit.
The issue of a third-term bid has stirred debate within the NDC and drawn allegations from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) about potential political maneuvers favoring President Mahama. Claims of influencing the Constitutional Review Committee and future judicial appointments have been firmly denied by government officials and NDC leaders.
During a state visit to Singapore, President Mahama publicly ruled out a third term, emphasizing his focus on fiscal discipline and economic reforms. His remarks have been echoed by senior party officials, including General Secretary Fiifi Kwetey, who criticized third-term advocates and reaffirmed the party's adherence to constitutional principles.
The NDC Council of Elders, following their meeting, issued a public warning against unofficial presidential campaigns and directed members to prioritize the government's 'Resetting Agenda'. The council emphasized that any official succession process would be determined by the party's National Executive Committee.
NDC insiders express concern that premature succession battles could distract from governance and weaken party cohesion. For now, President Mahama and NDC leaders remain focused on governance, steering clear of early succession contests as they navigate the political landscape ahead of the 2028 elections.