Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh, the Executive Director of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) and Chairperson of the 2025 Constitution Review Committee, has called for Ghana's ongoing constitutional review process to be conducted free from partisan political interests. Speaking on JoyNews' PM Express on Monday, August 3, Prof. Prempeh stressed that the country's Constitution should be treated as a national document that serves both present and future generations, rather than a tool for advancing political agendas.
Treating the Constitution as a National Document
Prof. Prempeh emphasized that constitutional reforms must focus on addressing the long-term needs of the country and improving governance, rather than responding to the interests of any particular political party or administration. "One will expect that we do not take into our constitution or make our constitution revision process the kind of habit that we have gotten used to in our everyday politics," he said. Constitutions, according to Prof. Prempeh, are different from everyday politics, as they are forward-looking and last generations.
Building Public Confidence
To build public confidence in the review process, Prof. Prempeh called for transparency, inclusiveness, and a commitment to placing the national interest above political expediency. He urged political leaders to "come to this with a certain sense of patriotic obligation." Prof. Prempeh also encouraged Ghanaians to actively participate in the exercise by sharing their views and proposals, saying broad public engagement would help ensure that the revised Constitution reflects the aspirations of the people.
The Importance of Broad Public Engagement
The Constitution Review Committee was established to examine Ghana's 1992 Constitution and recommend reforms to strengthen the country's democratic institutions, governance framework, and constitutional order. Prof. Prempeh's call for broad public engagement is crucial in this process, as it would help to ensure that the revised Constitution reflects the aspirations of the people. By involving the public in the review process, the Committee can gather valuable insights and suggestions that would help to strengthen Ghana's democratic institutions and governance framework.
A New Approach to Constitutional Review
Prof. Prempeh's call for a new approach to constitutional review is timely, given the country's history of partisan politics influencing the Constitution. By treating the Constitution as a national document, rather than a tool for advancing political agendas, Ghana can move towards a more inclusive and transparent constitutional review process. This would not only strengthen the country's democratic institutions but also help to build public confidence in the review process.
Ghana's ongoing constitutional review process has the potential to shape the country's future, and it is crucial that it is conducted in a transparent and inclusive manner. By following Prof. Prempeh's call for a new approach to constitutional review, the country can move towards a more democratic and inclusive governance framework. As the review process continues, it is essential that Ghanaians remain engaged and involved in the exercise, sharing their views and proposals to help shape the revised Constitution.
Source: Joy Online
