President Mahama urges Ghanaians to participate in the Constitutional Review Process by submitting recommendations. He acknowledges the need for updates to the 1992 Constitution, initiated by past leaders, emphasizing proactive measures to strengthen democracy and governance. Mahama cites unity as essential for progress, referencing Dr. Nkrumah’s insights.
President John Dramani Mahama has encouraged all Ghanaians to engage in the ongoing Constitutional Review Process by submitting their suggestions and memoranda to the Constitutional Review Committee. He emphasized that this initiative is a significant chance for citizens to ensure that Ghana’s constitutional framework mirrors their collective aspirations, fostering national growth.
During his address on March 6 at Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary Celebration Parade in Accra, President Mahama acknowledged the 1992 Constitution’s role in providing a stable governance framework, marking the longest duration of constitutional democracy in the nation’s history. Nevertheless, he noted that flaws and loopholes exist, necessitating refinement.
The President reflected on the constitutional review process initiated by the late President John Evans Atta Mills in 2010, which led to the formation of the Constitutional Review Commission. He mentioned that the previous administration under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also engaged in constitutional reviews.
In light of changing national and global dynamics, President Mahama has created a new Review Constitutional Committee tasked with conducting a thorough and inclusive reassessment of the Constitution. He stated, “This endeavour is essential as the strength of our democracy, the integrity of our constitutional order, and the rule of law requires continuous renewal.”
Furthermore, President Mahama cautioned against allowing weaknesses in governance to undermine national stability, advocating for proactive measures to bolster the foundations of democracy. He quoted Ghana’s founding President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, on the necessity of unity, remarking, “The forces that unite us are inherently and far greater than the divisions imposed upon us.”
Former President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania was a distinguished guest at the celebration, along with notable figures including Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor. The government relocated the national day parade to the forecourt of the Presidency from Independence Square to reduce costs.
In conclusion, President Mahama’s call for Ghanaians to actively participate in the Constitutional Review Process underscores the importance of civic engagement in shaping the nation’s governance framework. He highlighted the historical progression of constitutional democracy in Ghana while acknowledging areas that require improvement. The establishment of a new Review Constitutional Committee signifies a commitment to adapting the Constitution to current realities, reinforcing the foundations of democracy, and promoting national stability.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
