Government has accepted major recommendations from the Constitution Review Committee aimed at reshaping Ghana’s presidency, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has announced.
Addressing the media in Accra, Dr. Ayine said Cabinet has approved in principle three of the Committee’s flagship proposals, which will be forwarded for further stakeholder consultation and eventual constitutional amendment.
The Key Recommendations Accepted
1. Extend presidential and parliamentary terms from 4 to 5 years
2. Reduce the minimum age to contest for president from 40 to 35 years
3. Move presidential elections from December 7 to 1st November
“Government believes these changes will provide more stability for policy implementation, broaden participation in leadership, and allow for better transition management,” Dr. Ayine stated.
Not Retrospective
The Attorney-General was categorical that the changes will not apply to the current President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
“The proposed amendments, when passed, will take effect from the next presidential and parliamentary cycle,” he clarified.
What Happens Next
Dr. Ayine said government will now begin broad national consultations with political parties, CSOs, traditional authorities, and the general public before a draft bill is presented to Parliament.
If approved, the amendments would require a referendum under Article 290 of the 1992 Constitution.
Legal experts and political analysts say the proposals, if passed, would be the most significant changes to the executive structure since 1992.
