A Ghanaian civil society organisation, Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Ghana (ADAM-GH), has filed a petition at the Supreme Court, asking the country’s highest court to clarify whether Parliament can lawfully pass legislation that would allow a president to serve a third term in office.
The group is seeking a constitutional interpretation of Article 66 of the 1992 Constitution, which outlines the tenure and eligibility of the president.
deAccording to ADAM-GH, the provision clearly limits any individual to a maximum of two terms, whether those terms are served consecutively or at different periods.
In its petition, the organisation argues that recent public discussions, political commentary, and speculation surrounding a possible third term have created uncertainty and could weaken confidence in Ghana’s constitutional order if the matter is left unresolved. It says the absence of a definitive judicial ruling has allowed room for conflicting interpretations of the Constitution.
ADAM-GH is therefore asking the Supreme Court to declare that Parliament does not have the constitutional authority to introduce, debate, or pass any bill that seeks to permit or legitimise a third presidential term. The group maintains that such an action would amount to an indirect amendment of the Constitution through ordinary legislation, which it argues is not permitted under Ghana’s legal framework.
The organisation further contends that allowing debate on a third-term presidency could set a dangerous precedent and undermine the principle of term limits, which it describes as a cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic system. In its view, term limits are essential to preventing the concentration of power and ensuring regular political renewal.
Although there is currently no formal proposal before Parliament to introduce a third-term bill, ADAM-GH says judicial intervention is necessary to prevent future attempts and to provide legal certainty ahead of future elections.
Ghana has been widely regarded as one of Africa’s most stable democracies, with several peaceful transfers of power since the return to constitutional rule in 1992. Analysts often cite strict adherence to presidential term limits as a key factor in maintaining political stability and public confidence in state institutions.
The Supreme Court is expected to examine the petition and determine whether it raises issues requiring constitutional interpretation. A ruling in the case could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s.
Written by Alex Armoo
@Ahotoronline.com