If I were John Mahama I would have retired by now - Hamid admonishes

Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, former Minister for Zongo and Inner-Cities Development, has offered unsolicited advice to former President John Dramani Mahama regarding his decision to seek re-election after serving a term as president.

Speaking during a gathering with Imams, Zongo Chiefs, and settler communities in Donkro Nkwanta, within the Nkoranza South Constituency of the Bono East Region, Dr. Abdul-Hamid expressed his view that if he were in Mr. Mahama’s position, he would have retired by now, acknowledging the many blessings bestowed upon him by God.

He pointed out that among the 32 million Ghanaians, John Mahama is the only individual who has served in multiple high-level public roles: Assemblyman, Member of Parliament, Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice President, and ultimately, President. “If the former President were a good Christian, he would have retired by now because the good Lord has been very good to him,” Dr. Abdul-Hamid remarked, suggesting that Mr. Mahama should be grateful for his long service rather than seeking to return as President.

Dr. Abdul-Hamid also highlighted the unique opportunity presented by the 2024 Presidential election, stating that it will produce a President from Northern Ghana. He endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s Presidential candidate, arguing that Bawumia is the better choice since he could potentially serve for two full terms—unlike Mr. Mahama, who is constitutionally limited to one more term.

He further stressed the importance of public accountability, suggesting that Dr. Bawumia would lead Ghana more effectively because he would be motivated to seek re-election, whereas Mr. Mahama, who cannot seek another term, might lack that incentive.