Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has received the Constitutional Review Committee's Report, which among other recommendations, suggests extending Ghana's Presidential term from four to five years.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, presented the report to President Mahama at the Presidency in Accra. The Committee, inaugurated by the President on January 19, took 11 months to complete its work. President Mahama announced that an Implementation Committee would be established early next year, with some members of the Constitutional Review Committee being invited to join due to their institutional memory.
President Mahama expressed gratitude to the committee members for their hard work, encouraging them to take a rest before the implementation phase begins next year. He emphasized that the 1992 constitution has served Ghana well but acknowledged the need for adjustments to ensure its longevity. He assured that the government would study the report thoroughly, with input from the Legal Counsel and the Attorney-General.
The President highlighted that many recommendations in the report were revolutionary and radical, but believed they were necessary for strengthening democracy, especially as other West African nations face challenges in democratic governance. He stressed the importance of maintaining faith in democratic governance, which he argued unleashes the creative potential of citizens.
President Mahama advocated for a bipartisan approach to implementing the report's recommendations. He specifically addressed the role of the Council of State in appointments, suggesting a more significant role in the process to enhance credibility. Furthermore, he expressed his intention to publish the report for public awareness.
Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh noted that the report proposes extending the Presidential term to five years. The committee members include notable figures such as Justice Sophia Adinyira, a former Supreme Court Judge; Professor Kwame Karikari; Mrs Charlotte Osei; Dr Godwin Djokoto; Ibrahim Tanko Amidu; Dr Esi Ansah; and Dr Rainer Akumperigeya.