President John Dramani Mahama has expressed his contentment with the level of progress made on Ghana's constitutional review process and reaffirmed his commitment to the process of enhancing the governance system of the country. Speaking at the launch of the eight-member Constitutional Review Committee on January 30, 2025, President Mahama emphasized the importance of updating the 1992 Constitution to fit contemporary needs and aspirations of society.
The President underlined that calls for constitutional reforms must not be understood as admissions of failure but rather as acknowledgments of progress and the changing nature of democracy. He asserted, "The calls for constitutional reforms are not a recognition of defeat, but an appreciation of progress, a sign that our democracy must be vibrant and responsive, and ever responsive to the needs of our people." He put in added weight that this was not the first time Ghana was attempting to make its constitution more precise, referencing previous reform attempts as evidence of the nation's commitment to making its democratic machinery more perfect. The new Constitutional Review Committee is tasked with examining significant areas of the constitution that may need to be updated to better reflect Ghana's evolving democratic and socio-economic realities. The committee's mandate is to examine past recommendations, consult with important stakeholders, and recommend reforms to enhance the governance system of the country.
Key members of the committee include Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, chairman of the committee, and previous Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Osei. The rest include Justice Sophia Adinyirah, Professor Kwame Karikari, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Ibrahim Tanko Amidu, Dr. Esi Ansah, and Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya, who serves as the secretary.
In his speech at the ceremony of swearing-in, President Mahama urged the committee to do more than talking and touch base with actual constitutional changes.
He underscored the significance of their assignment, stating, "The job in front of you is vital. You are not just reading reports and issuing recommendations for amendments; you are part of making the future of our dear nation, Ghana. Your task is to critically work through past recommendations, make necessary corrections, and produce a clear-cut blueprint that will lead us to successful constitutional amendments." This, Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh again reiterated the resolve of the committee to the undertaking and agreed to perform it in earnest and with seriousness. He stated, "We will approach our work with the exclusive intent of improving the lot of the people, embarking us upon a path of progress and advancement, and assisting you, Mr. President, to live up to the promise that you have made."
President Mahama also emphasized that the constitutional review process is a national responsibility of constructing the nation's system of governance, rather than a partisan one. He called for everyone to work together and come together to re-make the country's legal framework, pointing out, "This exercise is not about any political party. It is about Ghana. It is about ensuring that our Constitution reflects the values, hopes, and dreams of every Ghanaian, regardless of their background or affiliation."
The President's commitment to constitutional review process is commensurate with his previous promises to proceed with the implementation of the Constitutional Review Process. In January 2024, as the NDC candidate, Mahama pledged to proceed with processes for the implementation of recommendations submitted by the Constitution Review Implementation Committee if he won the 2024 elections.
The establishment of the Constitutional Review Committee and the President's continued backing are a significant move towards strengthening democratic institutions and a more responsive and inclusive government for Ghana.
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