The Director of Research and Elections of the New Patriotic Party, Evans Nimako, has accused the National Democratic Congress of creating confusion over discussions surrounding a possible third term agenda for President John Dramani Mahama. He argued that the debate should be guided by the provisions of the 1992 Constitution and not political interpretations.
Mr Nimako disclosed that the NPP should not be drawn into disagreements emerging from within the NDC because the constitutional framework on presidential tenure remains clear. According to him, comments from different sections of the governing party suggest conflicting positions between the party headquarters and the seat of government.
The Director referenced Article 60(2) of the 1992 Constitution during an interview, urging political actors and citizens to examine the provision carefully. He explained that constitutional matters must be approached through legal understanding and democratic principles instead of political accusations.
“The law is clear, the Constitution is clear. The conversation should be about those who believe in democracy and the provisions that guide our country.”
Evans Nimako
Addressing the role of the NPP in the ongoing debate, the Director questioned why his party should become involved in an internal discussion within the NDC. He pointed to remarks from National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and General Secretary Fifi Kwetey as examples of statements that have generated the current conversation.
Furthermore, Mr Nimako highlighted the political history of the NPP under former President John Agyekum Kufuor and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo. He explained that both leaders served the constitutionally allowed two terms in office without seeking additional legal interpretations to extend their stay.
The NPP official revealed that his party accepted the constitutional limits attached to presidential leadership during its periods in government. He therefore questioned claims that the party was attempting to create difficulties for the NDC by raising issues around presidential tenure.
Meanwhile, Mr Nimako also referred to the process through which the current government nominated individuals for appointment to the Supreme Court. He noted that the nominations went through the Appointments Committee of Parliament, which according to him demonstrates the importance of following established constitutional procedures.
Analysing the current political discussions, the Director urged stakeholders to separate legal arguments from partisan disagreements. He explained that Ghana’s democratic system depends on respect for constitutional rules that apply equally to all political parties.
Constitutional Rules Remain Clear Amid Political Debate
The Director of Research and Elections of the New Patriotic Party, Evans Nimako, reiterated that Ghana’s constitutional arrangements provide clear direction on presidential terms and political succession. He explained that political parties must operate within the framework established by the 1992 Constitution.
Discussing the reactions surrounding the issue, Mr Nimako noted that political discussions should focus on the substance of constitutional provisions. He argued that attempts to attach partisan motives to the debate could shift attention away from the legal principles involved.
The Director specifically referenced the experiences of previous NPP administrations, explaining that former President John Agyekum Kufuor and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo completed their two terms without seeking further constitutional clarification. He stated that such actions demonstrated respect for the limits placed on executive authority.
The Director further explained that political parties must ensure their engagements support the democratic development of the country. He noted that public discussions about constitutional matters require careful analysis to protect the credibility of national institutions.
Referencing Ghana’s democratic history, Mr Nimako argued that previous transitions of power have been guided by constitutional limitations. He added that adherence to these principles remains essential for maintaining public confidence in the electoral system.
In addition, the NPP official urged political actors to examine the constitutional text instead of relying on assumptions or political narratives. He explained that the country’s legal framework provides mechanisms for addressing questions surrounding presidential authority.
The Director also linked the debate to broader conversations about political accountability and democratic practice. He noted that disagreements among political actors should be managed through institutional channels that respect Ghana’s legal order.
Meanwhile, Mr Nimako called on citizens to follow the discussions carefully and consider the implications of proposed interpretations of constitutional provisions. He emphasised that democracy requires consistency in applying rules regardless of the political party involved.
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