President John Dramani Mahama has taken a significant step toward fulfilling his commitment to the constitutional review process by establishing a new Constitution Review Committee.
This initiative, announced on Sunday, January 19, 2025, aims to address gaps and challenges identified in previous constitutional review efforts and propose actionable amendments to strengthen Ghana’s democratic governance.
The committee comprises distinguished personalities, including law Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh will serve as Chairman, with other members including former EC Chair Mrs. Charlotte Osei, Justice Sophia Adinyirah, Prof. Kwame Karikari, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Ibrahim Tanko Amidu, Dr. Esi Ansah, and Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya, who will serve as Secretary.
In a statement, Acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, highlighted the President’s intent to ensure that the process is managed by individuals committed to good governance.
“The composition of the Committee underscores the President’s desire to engage persons of proven expertise, dedication to the service of the nation, and commitment to good governance,” he said.
The Committee’s mandate includes reviewing work done by the 2010 Constitution Review Commission and the 2023 Constitution Review Consultative Committee, engaging key stakeholders, and soliciting views on proposals for amending the 1992 Constitution.
“The Committee is expected to make actionable recommendations that address gaps and challenges while enhancing democratic governance,” the statement noted.
President Mahama has tasked the committee with submitting its recommendations within five months for government consideration.
The announcement follows the President’s campaign pledge to initiate a constitutional review, including the abolition of ex-gratia payments to Article 71 officeholders and the strengthening of the country’s judicial and institutional systems.
But, in his final State of the Nation Address, former President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized the need for a careful and tactful approach to any future constitutional review. He acknowledged that while the 1992 Constitution has largely served Ghana well, no constitution in the world is entirely free of deficiencies.