Ghana urgently requires a constitutional review to tackle systemic governance challenges, irrespective of whether John Mahama holds office as president.

The 1992 Constitution, while foundational, has exposed structural gaps that hinder accountability, decentralization, and inclusivity in governance.

A review could refine executive powers, enhance judicial independence, and strengthen institutions for better economic and social outcomes.

Accordingly, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Spokesperson for President-elect John Mahama, has emphasized that Ghanaians broadly agree on the need to implement constitutional amendments demanded by the public.

She clarified that while certain reforms are necessary, they have no connection to extending Mahama’s tenure.

This response addressed allegations by Dr. Cadman Atta-Mills, who suggested Mahama will seek another term in office as part of these reforms.

Mogtari dismissed such claims, reaffirming the focus on constitutional changes for national development, not individual political gains.

“Uncle, I don’t think you have any cause for alarm. I am sure that you, in particular, are a very senior party member and can certainly bring such a matter up for discussion.
“Reforms are needed but it must be explicitly clear that any reforms on term limits will be focused on the duration of the term limit and not the limitation of two terms”.
Joyce Bawah Mogtari

Mogtari further emphasized that any proposed changes to term limits would not apply to the current president but would only take effect after the conclusion of his tenure.

She highlighted this principle as a fundamental safeguard to prevent self-serving modifications and to ensure that constitutional amendments are forward-looking, focused on improving governance for future administrations rather than benefiting the incumbent.

This assurance, she noted, should dispel concerns about ulterior motives behind proposed reforms.

Mogtari Denies Allegations of Sycophancy

Moreover, Joyce Bawah Mogtari clarified that while President-elect John Mahama’s team is focused on preparations for the inauguration, his attention will remain firmly on addressing the pressing tasks ahead, rather than pursuing a constitutional amendment to extend his term.

Mogtari highlighted Mahama’s unwavering dedication to principled governance, placing the nation’s interests above personal ambition.

She emphasized that John Mahama is not a leader influenced by sycophancy, refuting Dr. Mills’ claims that the public is attempting to gain his favor, citing the case involving UMB and Ibrahim Mahama’s firm, E&P, as examples.

“Sometimes there is something called romanticism, but sycophancy I am not sure because E&P and UMB have been in court for years and their issues have absolutely nothing to do with HE the President Elect.
“Similarly calls by some youth who are closely associated with our Brother Sharaf Mahama and many others who worked very closely together to win this election are simply out of excitement…”
Joyce Bawah Mogtari

Bawah emphasized that suggestions from a few young individuals proposing Sharaf Mahama for the position of Minister of Youth and Sports should not be overly scrutinized or taken as a serious indicator of “sycophancy” within the incoming Mahama administration.

She pointed out that such remarks often reflect personal opinions rather than structured policy recommendations.

Accordingly, the NDC stalwart asserted that it would be premature and unwarranted to draw conclusions about the administration’s governance approach based on these informal suggestions.

She expressed confidence that Sharaf Mahama, like any other young Ghanaian, possesses the capability to serve the nation effectively at various levels.

However, she emphasized that such service does not necessarily have to come in the form of a ministerial appointment. “...indeed your nephew Fiifi [Atta-Mills] is one of Sharaf’s friends and they are both fine young men”.

Instead, she highlighted the diverse opportunities available for youth to contribute meaningfully to national development, reflecting the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and merit-based leadership.

Addressing the allegations against the President-elect, Mogtari noted that Dr. Cadman Mills is familiar enough with the President-elect to assess the validity of such claims, emphasizing that such remarks should not be made lightly.

Meanwhile, allegations aside, a constitutional review offers Ghana an opportunity to realign its governance framework with contemporary needs, ensuring a more accountable, inclusive, and efficient system.

By addressing structural deficiencies and empowering institutions, the nation can promote sustainable development and public trust in governance.

This crucial undertaking transcends partisan politics and the tenure of any leader, emphasizing the collective responsibility to build a resilient democratic foundation for future generations.