Constitutional changes could determine Ghana’s future, Manhyia South MP cautions
By: Adwoa Nyarko Asiamah | 5 January 2025
The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has cautioned that proposed amendments to Ghana’s 1992 Constitution must be handled with great care, warning that rushed decisions could have long-term consequences for the country.
Addressing the ongoing constitutional review process, Mr. Awuah, who also serves as Vice Chair of Parliament’s Subsidiary Legislation Committee, stressed that reforms should be carefully thought through and aimed at addressing long-standing national concerns rather than being driven by urgency.
His comments follow the release of a report by the Professor H.K.P. Committee, which recommends extending the presidential term from four years to five years through amendments to Article 66(1) of the Constitution. The committee also proposes changes to Article 290 to remove the entrenched status of Article 66(1), which currently enjoys special constitutional protection.
Mr. Awuah expressed concern about the implications of altering entrenched provisions, noting that such clauses were deliberately protected to preserve Ghana’s democratic framework. He called for broad consultations and detailed assessment before any constitutional changes are pursued.
He further advised the President to consider issuing a white paper to clarify the government’s position and to allow for public engagement before submitting the proposals to any implementation or working committee.
The issue forms part of a broader national debate on governance and constitutional reform, as stakeholders balance the need for change with the importance of safeguarding democratic principles and constitutional stability.
