Civil society demands law-backed roadmap for Ghana’s constitutional reforms

Dear Chairperson and Members, I write to express my support for the ongoing constitutional reform process in Ghana. My family and I live in a miniature constitutional democracy at home, where I play the role of the ruler and my wife serves as the Speaker. Our children represent the citizens, reminding me that our rules should serve the people, not the rulers.

This principle is crucial as we work to shape Ghana's constitutional future. The open letter is not meant to challenge the government's right to review recommendations made by the Constitution Review Committee (CRC). Like all institutions, the government is entitled to its opinion on the proposed reforms. However, the central question is whether the committee should have a significant role in determining the extent of presidential power, especially if it involves decentralisation, limiting, or restructuring the President's term.

The focus should be on creating constitutional arrangements that serve the enduring interests of Ghanaians, regardless of who holds power. Every president and government will eventually change, but the Constitution will remain. Individuals, groups, academia, traditional authorities, corporations, political parties, and governments will have differing interests, which is a natural part of democracy.

It is vital, though, that these competing interests do not undermine the weight given to the views expressed by citizens through the constitutional review process. If a recommendation is significantly altered or rejected, it should be clearly explained why, properly justified, and subjected to public scrutiny. The people's views should not lose importance once final decisions are made without a clear reason for the departure and how it benefits the public.

Ghana and its people have invested heavily in the constitutional review process, and the people's voices should not become secondary at the final decision stage. The time, money, and commitment put into this process should not be wasted in an endless cycle of competing interests. Therefore, every recommendation should be assessed on whether it enhances democratic accountability, protects citizens' rights, promotes good governance, and improves Ghana's constitutional framework.

The reasons for any departure from the CRC's national consultation recommendations should be clearly stated and understandable to the public. The committee should approach this responsibility with independence, fairness, and impartiality, placing the enduring interests of the Ghanaian people above political convenience. This work will not only define your tenure but become part of Ghana's constitutional legacy.

I congratulate you and the committee members on this momentous task. Let us ensure future generations remember you as those who prioritized the nation's enduring interests above political expediency.