Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), has stated that former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo showed little interest in reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution while in office. This claim highlights a perceived reluctance by the former administration to engage with significant constitutional reforms.
Mr. Braimah’s assertion stems from his past interactions with the former President. He expressed doubts about the effectiveness of any constitutional review committee established under Akufo-Addo’s leadership. These concerns arose from direct discussions regarding the need for constitutional amendments.
This issue fits into Ghana’s ongoing national conversation about governance and anti-corruption efforts. The 1992 Constitution has been the bedrock of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, but calls for reforms have persisted. These calls often focus on strengthening institutions and improving accountability, which are crucial for economic stability and investor confidence.
Mr. Braimah recounted being part of a Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) delegation that met Mr. Akufo-Addo. The delegation discussed necessary constitutional reforms, especially those designed to combat corruption. However, the former President reportedly argued that the Constitution had sustained Ghana’s democracy for decades. He therefore saw no compelling reason for it to be altered.
“I had been part of some CSOs engagement with the (former) president (Nana Akufo-Addo) on certain provisions within the constitution and the need for constitutional amendment, particularly when it comes to fighting corruption,” Mr. Braimah stated. He added, “President Akufo-Addo on all occasions was very clear that as far as he was concerned this is the constitution that has guaranteed our democracy for the longest period and therefore we needed to be careful with tempering with the constitution.” This perspective, according to Braimah, made him question the potential for progress under that leadership.
The current government, under President John Mahama, has taken a different approach. Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, recently inaugurated an 11-member Constitution Review Implementation Committee (CRIC). This committee will oversee the implementation of proposed constitutional reforms. Its formation signals a renewed commitment to addressing long-standing issues within the constitutional framework.
The CRIC’s mandate includes examining the government’s position paper. It will also review recommendations from the Constitution Review Committee chaired by Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh. The goal is to develop a comprehensive framework for implementing these proposals. This move could lead to significant changes in Ghana’s governance structure, potentially impacting public finance management and the fight against corruption.
The implications of these developments are substantial for Ghana’s future. A robust constitutional review could enhance transparency and accountability, which are vital for attracting foreign direct investment and fostering economic growth. Investors and international partners closely monitor governance indicators. Strengthened anti-corruption provisions could improve Ghana’s standing globally. This could lead to better access to international markets and financial aid. The work of the new committee will be closely watched by civil society, businesses, and citizens alike. Its success could redefine Ghana’s democratic and economic trajectory for decades to come.