According to him, Mr Mahama has already served the country in various capacities, including as a Member of Parllament, Minister, Vice President and President and he should now use his cumulative knowledge and experience to write a book and serve as a statesman.

In a Facebook post, reacting to Mr Mahama's indication on Saturday that he would contest to lead the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for Election 2020, Prof Asare said: “I firmly believe that people should be free to run for any office."

"However, if ex President John Dramani Mahama asked me for advice on whether to run for office in 2020, I will urge him not to on grounds that he has already served the country in various capacities, including as MP, Minister, VP and President and he should now use his cumulative knowledge and experience to write a book and to serve as a statesman.

“Please note that this is free, unsolicited and non-professional advice that is not binding on the ex President or anyone else. Da Yie!” Prof. Asare stated in the Facebook post.

Mr Mahama in a Facebook post on Saturday indicated his interest to contest and lead the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) after a massive defeat in 2016.

• Mahama for 2020: 'I've listened to your calls and reflected'

“To you the teeming supporters and sympathizers calling and requesting me to declare my intentions for the future, I wish to assure you today, that as a servant-leader, I have listened to your calls and reflected,” Mahama wrote.

“I will not disappoint you even as we await the publication of the party’s guidelines for selecting a new leader,” he added.

Mr Mahama will be facing competition from four of his former appointees, Dr Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, former UPSA Vice Chancellor, Professor Joshua Alabi, former NHIA Chief Executive, Mr Sylvester Mensah and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban S.K. Bagbin.