By Juliet ETEFE
President John Dramani Mahama has sworn into office the eight-member Constitutional Review Committee, marking a critical moment in Ghana’s democratic evolution.
The President underscored the importance of adapting the 1992 Constitution to ensure it continues to meet the needs of an ever-changing nation.
In his address, President Mahama described the Constitution as a “living organism,” emphasising the need for the Constitution to evolve alongside the changing socio-political and economic landscape of Ghana.
“The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to adapt,” the President stated, reinforcing the necessity of constitutional reform as an essential part of Ghana’s growth.
This exercise is not about acknowledging failure, he clarified, but about recognising progress and ensuring that the country’s governance structures remain in tune with the aspirations of its people.
For over three decades, the 1992 Constitution has been the bedrock of Ghana’s democracy, guiding the country through periods of political transition, growth, and development. However, as the country continues to mature, it is essential to address any gaps or ambiguities in the current framework.
“This exercise is not about any political party,” President Mahama stressed, adding that “It is about Ghana. It is about ensuring that our Constitution reflects the values, hopes, and dreams of every Ghanaian.”
Chairing the committee is Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), with Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya serving as the Secretary. The other members include Justice Sophia Adinyirah, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Mrs. Charlotte Osei, Dr. Esi Ansah, Prof. Kwame Karikari, and Mr. Ibrahim Tanko Amidu. These individuals, the President remarked, were selected based on their integrity, expertise, and commitment to Ghana’s progress.
The committee’s mandate is to address the gaps and challenges identified in previous reviews of the Constitution. They will engage with key stakeholders, solicit views, and propose suitable amendments to ensure the Constitution serves the evolving needs of the nation.
The President called on the committee to approach their task with a sense of urgency and wisdom, stressing that their work would lay the groundwork for the future of Ghana’s democratic journey.
Professor Prempeh, in his response, assured the President and the nation that the committee would pursue its task with the utmost diligence, integrity, and seriousness.
He emphasised the responsibility of the committee to craft recommendations that would not only address present-day challenges but also ensure Ghana’s continued progress in the years ahead.
