How Akufo-Addo answered question on changing the constitution to allow him stay in power

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo granted France 24 an interview over the weekend during which he spoke about a number of issues related to the sub-region, as well as Ghana.

More specifically, the president answered questions on how Ghana is preparing for the 2024 general elections, which is also the same period of his final days as president.

Among the other things he discussed with the French channel, the president broke his silence on the matter of some arrested protesters in Ghana who were on the streets for days to urge his government to permanently crack the whip regrading galamsey (small-scale illegal mining).

He also responded to a question about changing of the country’s constitution to allow him stay longer in power.

Here is how the questions went and what he said in response:

France 24: In your country, I see these are your last weeks, as president, you’ve decided not to change the constitution to be able to run again. It never crossed your mind?

Akufo-Addo: Never. That has never been part of it. I was one of those who fought for the constitution of Ghana as it is…

France 24: But sometimes in power, you say…

Akufo-Addo: No, I’m not one of those leaders. I believe that once the ground rules have been made, it’s important for the stability of the country that people who are in office respect the ground rules. it encourages others to also do so. The stability in Ghana today has a lot to do with the fact that we have been going through these regular, popular consultations and have been accepted by the people, accepted by the political class. It’s proof to be a stabilising feature of our country.

Watch the rest of the interview below: