Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, has assured that significant reforms to Ghana’s Constitution will be achieved through ongoing consultations and stakeholder engagement, notably involving President Mahama. He outlined that the process includes necessary legislative actions and emphasized the importance of public acceptance in implementing entrenched clauses.
Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee, has expressed strong confidence that the committee’s efforts will yield favorable results for Ghana’s Constitution. During an interview on Joy Prime dated March 17, 2025, he elaborated on the committee’s mandate assigned by President Mahama, underscoring the importance of progress checks and stakeholder engagement.
Professor Prempeh revealed that the committee has consulted with President Mahama to provide updates and to gain insights based on his vast political experience. “Our report will be submitted to the president, who initiated our appointments. Two weeks ago, we had the opportunity to meet with him as our first stakeholder,” he noted. In this meeting, they discussed various constitutional matters drawing from the President’s dual experience as both president and former vice president.
He clarified that while the president will not have the final say in decision-making, his participation is vital. “Of course, the President doesn’t hold the keys, he is only one of the gatekeepers. Once we clear his barrier we have to go to parliament, because constitutional reform is essentially lawmaking,” he stated. Thus, any proposed reforms will first need to pass through Parliament.
Professor Prempeh emphasized the difference in processing non-entrenched and entrenched provisions, stating that non-entrenched reforms can be enacted by Parliament, while entrenched reforms will necessitate broader public acceptance and involvement. He highlighted the essential role of stakeholder engagement, assuring that all relevant parties will be consulted, and their inputs taken into consideration.
Addressing the need for systemic change, he remarked, “If we are going to reset, the way of doing things in this place must change, that is a resetting for me. I’m also saying that, if Ghanaians want change, they will get it.” He concluded by asserting that the President has a crucial responsibility to fulfill the promise of reforms, aiming for positive outcomes for the nation.
In summary, Professor Kwasi Prempeh has articulated the committee’s commitment to constitutional reforms in Ghana, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and the requisite legislative processes. His assurance of favorable outcomes highlights the expectation of constructive change within the nation’s political framework. The involvement of President Mahama as a key figure in the preliminary stages of this reform demonstrates a collaborative approach towards achieving meaningful progression for Ghana’s governance.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
