Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh, Chairperson of the 2025 Constitution Review Committee, has cautioned against rushing Ghana's constitutional review process. Speaking on JoyNews' PM Express on Monday, August 3, Prof Prempeh emphasized the need for adequate time to gather and consider the views of citizens.
Public Participation at the Heart of Review Process
Prof. Prempeh stressed that public participation should remain at the heart of the exercise, urging the committee to ensure that the opinions of Ghanaians are properly heard and carefully considered before any recommendations are made. "I think it is important for the deliberative content of this exercise to be very high so that rather than rush things and go quickly to cast a vote, let us debate and argue it and let the public be part of that debate and let us see who has the superior argument because we are reforming our state," he said.
The Constitution Review Committee is tasked with reviewing Ghana's 1992 Constitution, a long-term national document that could serve several generations. Prof. Prempeh noted that constitutional reforms should reflect the collective aspirations of the people rather than the preferences of a few individuals or political actors.
Importance of Nationwide Consultations
Prof. Prempeh maintained that allowing sufficient time for nationwide consultations would strengthen public confidence in the review process and help produce reforms that enjoy broad national acceptance. "If we do not infuse it with a high degree of deliberation, debate and participation, then we will probably have the results that you predict ….."
Nationwide consultations are crucial in ensuring that the review process is thorough, transparent, and inclusive. Prof. Prempeh emphasized the need for the committee to engage with citizens and ensure that their opinions are properly heard and considered.
Strengthening Public Confidence in Review Process
The Chairperson of the Constitution Review Committee believes that allowing sufficient time for nationwide consultations would strengthen public confidence in the review process. He noted that this would help produce reforms that enjoy broad national acceptance. Prof. Prempeh's comments come as the committee begins its review of the 1992 Constitution.
The review process is expected to be a long-term exercise that requires careful consideration and deliberation. Prof. Prempeh's warning against rushing the process is a timely reminder of the importance of public participation and nationwide consultations in ensuring that the review process is thorough and inclusive.
Source: Joy Online
