Justice Janapare Bartels-Kodwo and President John Mahama
Supreme Court judge nominee, Justice Janapare Bartels-Kodwo, has firmly dismissed speculation surrounding the possibility of a third presidential term in Ghana, stating that the Constitution is unequivocal on the matter.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Tuesday, June 17, Justice Bartels-Kodwo was clear in her response:
“It is crystal clear; the president cannot hold office for more than two terms. Period.”
Her comments come amid renewed public debate over President John Mahama’s eligibility to seek a third term, a controversy that has sparked legal and constitutional conversations nationwide.
Justice Bartels-Kodwo’s remarks echoed those of another Supreme Court nominee, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, who was vetted a day earlier.
He emphasised that the Constitution leaves no room for alternative interpretations regarding term limits.
“What the Constitution says is what must be done. If it says two terms, then a president can only serve two terms,” Justice Dzamefe told the Committee on Monday, June 16, 2025.
“I don’t know what interpretation can be put to it other than what is clearly written.”
Addressing the contentious issue of alleged political interference in judicial appointments, Justice Bartels-Kodwo said such claims were unsubstantiated in her experience.
“I don’t see the politicisation of the appointment of Supreme Court judges. It is only a perception. I have not experienced it.
“The load at the Supreme Court has grown bigger over the years. It will be good if some cases are terminated at the Court of Appeal,” she recommended.
AM/KA
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