Former President John Mahama has told President Nana Akufo-Addo that the authority to choose his successor does not lie within his power.

Speaking at Damongo, Savanna Region, where he cut sod for the construction of a new multipurpose Ndewura Jakpa palace, the flagbearer of the main opposition National Democratic Congress, told the gathering right after the president left the ceremony: “This was my message to Nana Akufo-Addo, unfortunately, he has left, and he has left only our member of the council of state on the high table”.

“I wish to urge our president that the best legacy he can leave this country, is to superintend a peaceful, transparent and credible election.”

“I wish to remind him that it is God who makes rulers and he can never ever be the one to choose his successor”, Mr Mahama asserted, adding: “It is God who will choose his successor”.

Days ago, President Akufo-Addo reiterated his steadfast opposition to the idea of handing over the presidency to his predecessor. 

Speaking to the chiefs and people of Wa, Upper West Region, President Akufo-Addo told the paramount chief of the Waala traditional area, Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV, that he cannot hand over Ghana to a man he beat twice.  

“Before the election is held, I am going to come here and pay my proper goodbye to you and thank you for the cooperation that I received from you when I was president. God willing, when I come, I will come with the man who is going to be my successor. Wa Naa, you know that the man I removed from the seat, I cannot have him as my successor and as a traditional ruler, you understand what I am saying,” the president stated.

Despite this stance, President Akufo-Addo pledged his commitment to ensuring peace before, during, and after the December 7 polls. 

“Our country is known as the pacesetter for democratic government across the entire continent of Africa. I want to assure you that this year we are going to maintain that reputation. But I need your support and cooperation.

“I want us to work together to make sure that the peace and stability of our country are maintained all through the electioneering period and after,” President Akufo-Addo added.