IEA backs proposal to bar MPs from serving simultaneously as ministers

The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has expressed support for a proposal to prohibit Members of Parliament (MPs) from serving as ministers concurrently with their parliamentary roles. In a statement issued on September 2, 2026, the policy think tank argued that implementing this restriction would bolster the separation of powers and enhance Parliament's capacity to scrutinize the Executive.

The Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, had recommended that MPs not be appointed as ministers, deputy ministers, or regional ministers while retaining their parliamentary positions. However, the government disagreed, stating that the President should retain the authority to appoint ministers independently of parliamentary representation.

The IEA emphasized that a robust separation of powers is crucial for maintaining parliamentary independence and enabling effective oversight of the Executive. They contended that the current system could undermine parliamentary scrutiny, as many MPs could become dependent on presidential appointments for executive roles, thereby limiting their ability to effectively challenge the government.

The IEA maintained that separating MPs from ministerial positions would allow lawmakers to focus on their oversight responsibilities without the potential influence of executive appointments.