Allow Mahama to go for third term – Chief calls for constitutional reform

The Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Obodade III, has joined calls for constitutional reforms that would allow President John Dramani Mahama to serve beyond Ghana’s current two-term presidential limit.

Speaking at a press briefing ahead of Mahama’s Thank-You tour in the Eastern Region, the traditional leader argued that exceptional leadership should not be restricted by what he described as “arbitrary limits.”

Nana Boadi praised Mahama as a “Good Samaritan” who had returned at a crucial time to “rescue” the nation, comparing him to Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

“In just six months, President Mahama has revived the economy, exposed corruption, and restored national hope,” the chief said.

He cited recent exposés on alleged corruption within the National Service Scheme and public procurement processes as evidence of Mahama’s commitment to accountability. “It was God’s timely intervention that brought him back,” he added.

Nana Boadi also commended First Lady Lordina Mahama for her support of her husband’s return to politics.

“If I were her, I would have said, ‘You’ve been MP, Vice President, President—what more do you want?’ But she humbly allowed him to return, and for that, we must thank her,” he said.

He expressed strong support for Mahama’s $10 billion “Big Push” development agenda, describing it as a vision too important to be limited by term restrictions.

“The man is doing a yeoman’s job—dependable, diligent, with wisdom and experience. Can such a leader be limited by time?” he questioned.

The Krontihene revealed that many traditional leaders and citizens he had spoken with share his views and support a constitutional amendment for leadership continuity.

He also praised Mahama’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, calling him “a strong, respectful, hardworking, and humble lion,” and suggested he be considered as a potential running mate if the constitution is amended.

On national security, Nana Boadi called for vigilance ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election and urged Ghana’s security forces to maintain peace.

He concluded by urging citizens and policymakers to rethink Ghana’s democratic structure—not for personal interest, but for the nation’s progress.