The Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) has outlined six major recommendations aimed at strengthening Ghana’s democracy, improving governance, and enhancing accountability within the constitutional framework.
Presenting portions of its findings, the Committee said the proposals were informed by nationwide consultations, expert submissions, and public concerns about the effectiveness of the 1992 Constitution.
1. Cap on Supreme Court Justices
The CRC has proposed a 15-member cap on the Supreme Court, arguing that the current absence of a limit could affect efficiency, consistency in judgments, and public confidence in the judiciary.
2. Review of Executive Appointments
The Committee recommends reducing the number of presidential appointments, particularly ministers and deputy ministers drawn from Parliament, to strengthen the separation of powers and improve parliamentary oversight.
3. Fixed Election Date
To enhance predictability and electoral planning, the CRC proposes a fixed election date for general elections, regardless of unforeseen circumstances, except under clearly defined emergency conditions.
4. Strengthening Local Government Autonomy
The report calls for greater financial and administrative independence for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), including the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).
5. Reform of Article 71 Emoluments
The Committee recommends reforms to Article 71, which governs salaries and benefits for top public officials, suggesting greater transparency and an independent mechanism to determine emoluments.
6. Clear Succession Rules for Key Offices
The CRC proposes clearer constitutional provisions governing succession and temporary absence for key offices such as the President, Vice President, and Speaker of Parliament to avoid ambiguity during emergencies.
The Committee stressed that the recommendations are intended to modernise the Constitution and reflect Ghana’s democratic maturity. It urged the government and Parliament to consider the proposals carefully and subject them to broad public debate before any constitutional amendments are pursued.
