In the recent wake of President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to rule out a third term ambition, a new poll by Global InfoAnalytics has shown that a majority of Ghanaian voters support his position. The findings indicate that 65 percent of respondents want the President to maintain his one term understanding, while 27 percent favour a possible return for another term.
The Head of the research firm, Mussa Dankwah argued that the country’s democratic development since the adoption of the 1992 Constitution has influenced citizens’ expectations about political leadership. Discussing the possible constitutional implications, Mr Dankwah stated that Ghanaians have developed a strong attachment to democratic principles and were unlikely to support arrangements they considered inconsistent with those values. He explained that the views captured in the poll went beyond supporters of a particular political party.
The analyst highlighted the role of floating voters in determining electoral outcomes, noting that their position could influence major political decisions in the country. He suggested that any constitutional amendment process placed before citizens for approval would face significant resistance based on the current public mood.
“Ghanaians have matured politically since the 1992 Constitution. They love to be seen as democrats, and any attempt to bring something alien to them, they will resist it.”
Mussa Dankwah
From his perspective, the issue is also linked to the legacy of political leaders and how their decisions influenced their place in history. Mr Dankwah argued that President Mahama’s reputation as a democratic leader would be an important factor in any future decision concerning the matter.
Addressing the possibility of a judicial interpretation that could allow another term, the analyst stated that leadership decisions are not solely about immediate political gains. He noted that a third term pursuit could affect a leader’s achievements if it creates instability or damages public confidence.
“Your legacy is very important. You could be popular now, you win a third term, there could be chaos, and you destroy everything you have done. The people want a good succession plan in the NDC, a smooth transition from one leader to the other. That nurtures democracy and makes the party grow.”
Mussa Dankwah
Furthermore, Mr Dankwah examined the role of individuals around political leaders who encourage continued stay in office. He explained that such situations are common in governments worldwide because some people close to power often seek to protect their interests under an existing administration.
However, he stressed that leaders must be able to make independent decisions based on their long term reputation and the interests of the country. He advised politicians to prepare for transitions because political influence eventually changes hands.
Referencing the future of the National Democratic Congress, the analyst predicted that pursuing an extended tenure arrangement could create internal difficulties for the party. He explained that party supporters and delegates might have different views on succession and the importance of maintaining a smooth leadership transition.
Mr Dankwah referenced Ghana’s political history and noted that previous leaders such as Jerry John Rawlings faced questions about succession. He, therefore suggested that a structured transfer of leadership could strengthen the party’s democratic credentials and support its future growth.
Additionally, he stated that political parties must prepare for leadership changes because no individual remains in office indefinitely. The Global InfoAnalytics Head urged political stakeholders to focus on strengthening institutions and ensuring orderly transitions that preserve democratic stability.
President’s One Term Pledge Gains Majority Support From Voters
The Head of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah, explained that the poll was captured views from different sections of the electorate, including supporters of political parties, floating voters and individuals who do not identify with any political group. He revealed that the data shows widespread approval for the President’s decision across several voter categories.
According to the analyst, the figures show that only a section of respondents supported calls for the President to reconsider his position and seek another mandate. He added that eight percent of participants remain undecided on the matter.
“65% of the voters sided with the president. They want him to stick to his one term understanding, and that’s what they want.”
Mussa Dankwah
Mr Dankwah noted that the party affiliation breakdown presented an interesting outcome, with supporters of the National Democratic Congress, New Patriotic Party and other groups largely agreeing with the President’s decision. He stated that only NDC affiliated respondents showed majority support among those calling for him to consider another term.
On the influence of the President’s public declaration, the Global InfoAnalytics Head suggested that the announcement by the President may have shaped how some voters responded during the survey. He explained that some individuals who previously held different views could have adjusted their position after hearing the President’s commitment. From his perspective, earlier public opinions could have produced different figures before the announcement was made.
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