District Assembly elections set to become major flashpoint in constitution review

District Assembly elections are becoming a significant issue in Ghana's proposed constitutional reforms, according to Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, a Manhyia South MP and member of Parliament's Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee. The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) will not back proposals that limit who can contest the elections.

Awuah emphasized the importance of the opposition party presenting its own position paper on the proposed constitutional amendments, as the Constitution Review Committee had conducted extensive consultations with various stakeholders. He pointed out that the NPP needs to clarify its stance before the amendment process commences, as certain proposed changes would require a referendum.

The NPP believes that political parties should be permitted to sponsor candidates in district assembly elections, while independent candidates should also have the right to contest. Awuah warned against leaving the process to the government alone, stressing the need for voters to be educated about the amendments, especially if several entrenched provisions are put to a referendum.

He expects the election of District Chief Executives and the structure of district assembly elections to generate significant debate. The NPP's position paper has already been submitted to its leader, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and is expected to be released before the end of the year.