Kwaku Azar defends Mahama’s authority to govern from abroad amid Minority concerns

Former President John Dramani Mahama is leaving Ghana. He will attend high-level global security dialogues. These include the Munich Security Conference and an AU meeting in Ethiopia.

Legal scholar Kwaku Azar has sparked a new constitutional debate. In a popular Facebook post, he stated, “The idea that the President can’t govern from abroad is a myth—crafted by Date-Bah, not the Constitution. Time to bury it. Da Yie!”

Azar's statement challenges concerns raised by the Minority. They are uneasy about Mahama traveling while fulfilling presidential duties. They believe presidential authority cannot be fully exercised outside Ghana’s borders. Azar argues this view is legally unfounded.

Mahama's trip runs from February 12 to 17. It includes meetings with global leaders and key forums. He will also deliver a speech on African security challenges. As Chairman of the Tana Forum, he will provide insights on continental security policy.

Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu defended Mahama’s trip. He emphasized its importance for Ghana’s diplomatic and security interests. “President Mahama’s presence at these global platforms strengthens Ghana’s role in shaping international policy,” he said at the airport.

The debate over whether a president can govern abroad has resurfaced again. Kwaku Azar calls for clarity on this issue. He attributes the restriction to Justice Date-Bah's interpretation, not the Constitution itself, raising questions about its legal basis.