The Government of Ghana has outlined 13 major constitutional reform proposals aimed at modernising the country's governance system, strengthening democratic institutions, and increasing accountability in public office.
The proposals, which form part of the ongoing constitutional review process, touch on presidential and parliamentary terms, judicial reforms, local governance, taxation, and citizen participation in constitutional amendments.
Below are the key reforms proposed:
1. Presidential Term Extended to Five Years
The proposal seeks to increase the tenure of the President from the current four-year term to five years, giving governments more time to implement policies and development projects.
2. Parliamentary Term Extended
Members of Parliament would also serve five-year terms instead of four years, aligning parliamentary elections with the proposed presidential term.
3. Lower Presidential Age Requirement
The minimum age required to contest for the presidency would be reduced from 40 years to 35 years, allowing younger Ghanaians to seek the nation's highest office.
4. President to Pay Taxes
Under the proposal, the President will pay income tax on salaries and allowances, as well as indirect taxes on goods and services, reinforcing the principle that every citizen contributes to national development.
5. Fixed Election Date
Presidential elections would be held on a fixed date during the first week of November, creating greater certainty and consistency in Ghana's electoral calendar.
6. Number of Ministers to Be Capped
The total number of Ministers of State would be limited to 60, a move intended to reduce government expenditure and improve efficiency.
7. Parliament Capped at 300 Members
The size of Parliament would be limited to 300 members, with 276 elected Members of Parliament and 24 proportional representation seats.
8. Dual Citizens Allowed to Contest Parliamentary Elections
Ghanaians holding dual citizenship would become eligible to contest parliamentary elections, expanding opportunities for qualified citizens to serve in Parliament.
9. Death Penalty Abolished
The proposal recommends removing the death penalty from the Constitution and replacing it with life imprisonment.
10. District Chief Executives to Be Elected
Instead of being appointed by the President, District Chief Executives (DCEs) would be elected directly by the people, promoting greater local accountability.
11. Citizen-Led Constitutional Amendments
Citizens would be allowed to initiate constitutional amendment proposals if supported by signatures from at least 10% of registered voters.
12. Fixed Term for the Chief Justice
The Chief Justice would serve a single, non-renewable 10-year term or remain in office until reaching the mandatory retirement age.
13. Attorney-General Separated from the Ministry of Justice
The Attorney-General would no longer serve as Minister of Justice. A separate Minister for Justice would oversee the ministry, while the Attorney-General focuses on legal advice and criminal prosecutions.
What These Reforms Mean
If approved through the constitutional review process, these proposals could bring significant changes to Ghana's governance framework. Supporters argue the reforms will enhance efficiency, accountability, democratic participation, and institutional independence. However, the proposals are expected to generate public debate, as constitutional amendments require broad national consensus before they can take effect.
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The constitutional review process is expected to involve stakeholder consultations, parliamentary consideration, and, where required, approval through a national referendum before any of the proposed changes become law.
