Ghana’s Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) has proposed a 15-member cap on the Supreme Court, as part of broader recommendations aimed at strengthening judicial efficiency and safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.
The proposal, contained in the Committee’s draft reform recommendations, seeks to limit the size of the apex court to ensure consistency in judgments, reduce administrative strain, and enhance public confidence in the judicial system.
According to the CRC, the absence of a fixed numerical limit has, over time, led to an expanded bench that may complicate decision-making and undermine coherence in constitutional interpretation. The Committee argues that a capped membership would promote efficiency while preserving the Court’s ability to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate.
Legal experts contributing to the review noted that many jurisdictions operate with defined limits on their highest courts, allowing for predictability and institutional stability. The CRC believes a 15-member Supreme Court would strike a balance between diversity of legal thought and manageable workload distribution.
The proposal has already sparked debate among legal practitioners and civil society groups. While some have welcomed the move as a necessary reform to prevent politicisation of judicial appointments, others caution that a fixed cap could strain the Court during periods of heavy caseloads or constitutional litigation.
The Committee has emphasised that the recommendation is subject to further consultation and parliamentary consideration. If adopted, the cap would require constitutional amendments in line with established legal procedures.
The CRC is expected to submit its final report to the government later this year, following the completion of nationwide stakeholder engagements.
