I Respect Ghana’s Democracy, I Won’t Be A Supreme Leader – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has rejected accusations that his recent dismissal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, combined with his party’s commanding majority in Parliament, signals an attempt to consolidate authoritarian rule.

Justice Torkornoo was removed from office on Monday, September 1, 2025, under Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution. According to a statement from the Presidency, the decision followed the recommendation of a committee established under Article 146(6) to investigate a petition brought forward by a citizen, Mr. Daniel Ofori. Her removal took immediate effect.

The decision has sparked heated public debate, with critics warning that the move, coupled with the NDC’s super majority in Parliament, could pave the way for constitutional amendments that entrench executive power — including a potential third term for the President.

Speaking at his first media engagement on Wednesday, September 10, President Mahama dismissed such concerns, stressing his commitment to democratic principles.

“Look in my face — do I look like a supreme leader? I’m a democrat, through and through. Even when we attained two-thirds of Parliament, I said we were not going to ride roughshod over the minority and that we would give democracy the space to flourish,” Mahama said.

He emphasized that the removal of the Chief Justice was carried out strictly within constitutional bounds.

“Certainly, I’m not on the way to becoming a supreme leader or an autocrat,” he added.

Mahama’s remarks appear aimed at reassuring Ghanaians and the international community that his government remains committed to upholding democratic governance despite wielding significant political power.

“Look in my face, do I look like a supreme leader?”

—President John Dramani Mahama light heartedly reaffirms his commitment to upholding the country’s democracy, dismissing claims of an attempt to amend the constitution to allow for a third term. pic.twitter.com/dV9OSszcHn

— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) September 10, 2025

Source: Citinews