The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama has asked for a bit of “honeymoon” if he comes into office.
The flagbearer of the NDC based his statement on the argument that the NPP government has mismanaged the economy, “You will realize the harm that the NPP administration has caused to Ghana’s economy, this country is broke and so we will beg you that when we come into the office you give us a bit of a honeymoon, let put things in place so that we will bring back the economy on its feet.”
The former President is therefore asking the good people of Ghana to grant him a grace period if he is voted into power.
As per Article 66 of the 1992 constitution, which expansively outlines the details of the presidential term of office of Ghana, all clauses enshrined in the article neither state any form of grace period.
Article 66(1) says a person elected as president subject to clause (3) of this article holds office for a term of four (4) years beginning from the date he is sworn in as president.
This provision of the 1992 constitution emphatically states that the president shall immediately after being sworn in as president begin the term of office and, therefore, begin his official duties as president not allowing room for any “honeymoon”.
Nevertheless, it is the goodwill of the citizens that gives rooms of opportunity for incoming presidents to take a few days to organize themselves and their administration for the smooth running of the country.
It is not demanded nor is it mandatory for the office you have been elected into to ask for a honeymoon period.
