NPP rejects government’s implementation framework for constitutional amendments

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has rejected the government's suggested implementation framework for amending Ghana's 1992 Constitution, instead advocating for the formation of a Constituent Assembly to deliberate on the proposed changes. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the chairperson of the NPP's Policy Coordinating Committee, criticized the government's approach during a media briefing, stating that it appears to be a hasty process.

The party asserts that the proposed amendments should undergo broader public consultations before progressing through formal amendment procedures. Nkrumah also highlighted concerns raised by other stakeholders, such as the Ghana Bar Association and organized labor, which they believe should be taken into account by the government.

The NPP's stance stems from these concerns and the need for broader national deliberation. The government established an 11-member Constitution Review Implementation Committee (CRIC) to review the government's position paper and the recommendations of the Constitution Review Committee, and to develop a framework for implementing the proposed reforms.

The amendments to non-entrenched provisions require parliamentary approval, while amendments to entrenched provisions need a national referendum following the constitutional requirements. The referendum for entrenched provisions will be held alongside District Assembly elections next year, with 40% voter participation and 75% supporting the proposal.

In response to the debate, Efua Ghartey, the president of the Ghana Bar Association, also called for a Constituent Assembly, emphasizing the significance of the proposed reforms.