Cadman Mills, brother of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, has expressed serious concerns about emerging patterns of behavior within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the party prepares for a potential administration under John Dramani Mahama. Mills specifically highlighted what he sees as signs of sycophancy among individuals and institutions eager to secure favor with Mahama and his family.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) dated December 29, 2024, Mills outlined examples of what he deemed excessive flattery aimed at ingratiating certain individuals with the incoming government. Among the instances he cited was a public suggestion advocating for Sharaf Mahama, the son of John Dramani Mahama, to be appointed Minister of Sports. Proponents of this idea pointed to Sharaf’s personal interest in the sports sector, particularly boxing, as justification for his consideration.

Mills firmly rejected this notion, arguing that public office appointments should be based on merit and competence rather than familial ties or flattery. He noted that Ghanaians expect a higher standard of governance from the NDC following their removal from office after Mahama’s first term in 2017. “Ghanaians deserve better than family appointments influenced by sycophancy. The incoming administration must deliver results that surpass those of the past,” Mills emphasized.

While acknowledging the optimism surrounding a new Mahama-led administration, Mills cautioned against assuming its success is guaranteed. He reminded the public that the NDC’s prior tenure under Mahama from 2013 to 2017 left much to be desired, leading to their electoral defeat. “A JDM-led NDC administration is not new to Ghanaian politics,” he wrote. “We can hope this administration will be better than its first incarnation, but it is not a foregone conclusion. Already, the early signs of sycophancy are troubling.”

Mills also raised alarm over discussions advocating constitutional amendments to extend Mahama’s potential tenure beyond the existing term limits. He criticized such proposals as harmful to Ghana’s democratic principles and warned against emulating undemocratic precedents from other nations. “It is particularly alarming that, even before taking office, there are calls to amend the constitution to allow the incoming president to contest for an additional term. This would amount to a cumulative 12 years in office if he were to win in 2028. Why should Ghana tread this dangerous path? Have we not learned from the experiences of other countries?” Mills questioned.

The comments from Cadman Mills underscore his broader apprehensions about the direction of political discourse within the NDC and the potential impact on governance. He urged the party and its supporters to prioritize meritocracy, accountability, and adherence to democratic norms as the country looks toward the future. Mills concluded by reiterating that sycophancy and undue reverence for political leaders undermine the very foundations of democracy and public trust.