Ghana’s Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) has proposed a five-year presidential term as part of far-reaching recommendations aimed at reforming the country’s governance structure and strengthening democratic accountability under the 1992 Constitution.
The proposal, which forms part of the committee’s broader constitutional reform agenda, has already sparked public debate among political actors, legal experts, and civil society organizations, with many viewing it as one of the most significant recommendations to emerge from the review process.
Background to the Proposal
Currently, Ghana operates a four-year presidential term, with presidents eligible to serve a maximum of two terms. The CRC’s recommendation to extend the term to five years is intended to address concerns about governance continuity, policy implementation, and the high cost of frequent elections.
According to the committee, the four-year term often places excessive pressure on governments, as significant portions of the term are consumed by electioneering and political transitions rather than long-term development planning.
Rationale Behind a Five-Year Term
The Constitutional Review Committee argues that a five-year presidential term would provide sufficient time for elected governments to design, implement, and assess policies without constant political distractions.
Supporters of the proposal believe that longer terms could:
- Improve policy continuity
- Reduce election-related expenditure
- Allow governments to focus more on development outcomes
- Minimize excessive politicking
The committee also noted that several democracies across Africa and beyond operate five-year presidential terms, suggesting that the model is not uncommon internationally.
Governance and Accountability Considerations
While proposing a longer presidential term, the CRC emphasized the importance of strengthening accountability mechanisms to prevent abuse of power. The committee stressed that extending the term must go hand-in-hand with reforms that enhance parliamentary oversight, judicial independence, and transparency in public administration.
Governance experts have noted that term length alone does not guarantee better leadership outcomes. Instead, they argue that institutional checks and balances, strong civic engagement, and effective law enforcement are critical to ensuring good governance.
Mixed Public and Political Reactions
The proposal has generated mixed reactions across Ghana’s political landscape. Some political commentators and policy analysts have welcomed the recommendation, describing it as a pragmatic solution to governance inefficiencies caused by short political cycles.
Others, however, have expressed concern that extending the presidential term could reduce the frequency with which citizens are able to hold leaders accountable through elections. Critics argue that without strong safeguards, a longer term could concentrate power in the executive branch.
Civil society groups have called for extensive public consultations before any decision is made, emphasizing that constitutional changes must reflect the will of the people.
Legal Pathway for Constitutional Change
Any amendment to Ghana’s presidential term length would require a rigorous constitutional process. Legal experts explain that changes to entrenched provisions of the Constitution typically involve parliamentary approval followed by a national referendum.
This means that even if political leadership supports the proposal, it cannot take effect without broad national consensus and compliance with constitutional procedures.
Observers caution that constitutional reforms of this magnitude require careful deliberation to avoid unintended consequences.
Broader Constitutional Reform Agenda
The proposal for a five-year presidential term is part of a wider package of recommendations put forward by the CRC. These recommendations reportedly address issues such as executive authority, decentralization, appointments to public office, and the overall balance of power within Ghana’s democratic system.
The committee’s work followed extensive consultations with citizens, traditional authorities, professional bodies, and governance experts across the country, reflecting widespread public interest in constitutional reform.
Implications for Ghana’s Democratic Future
If adopted, the five-year presidential term could significantly reshape Ghana’s political calendar and governance rhythm. Elections would be held less frequently, potentially reducing political tension and economic disruptions associated with election cycles.
However, analysts warn that any reform must prioritize democratic safeguards and citizen participation to maintain Ghana’s reputation as a stable and credible democracy in the region.
Developing Story
Further details on the CRC’s full recommendations and responses from political parties, Parliament, and civil society organizations are expected in the coming days. This story will be updated as more verified information becomes available.
Source: My News Ghana
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