TUC rejects proposal to allow dual citizens in public office; urges caution on 5-year presidential term

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has dismissed a proposal to permit Ghanaians with dual citizenship to run for parliament and serve as Members of Parliament while maintaining dual nationality. TUC Secretary General Joshua Ansah voiced the union's disagreement with the proposed amendment to Article 94(2)(a) of Ghana's 1992 Constitution.

The Constitution Review Committee had suggested modifications to the provision to enable dual citizens to seek parliamentary election and hold office without having to relinquish their citizenship of another nation. Nevertheless, Mr. Ansah labeled the TUC's stance as "self-serving" and a risk to genuine citizenship. He contended that the proposed amendment was contradictory and would not serve the nation's best interests.

"We see the proposal as self-serving and a direct attack on authentic citizenship," he declared. The TUC's stance is part of its general appraisal of the Constitutional Review Committee's suggestions and the government's stance on the proposed reforms. The union has advocated for an inclusive process involving all major stakeholders, including opposition parties, in discussions on the Constitution's future.

It asserts that the reform process must safeguard Ghana's national interests and bolster the country's democratic and constitutional governance.