Blessings of the 1992 Constitution

Yesterday, January 7, marked 33 years since the 1992 Constitution came into effect, laying the foundation for the country's Fourth Republic. 

The Constitution has been instrumental in shaping the nation's governance, promoting , and protecting fundamental rights.

The day is a reminder of Ghana's collective commitment to constitutionalism, democracy and the rule of law.

It is a call to action for citizens to engage with the Constitution, understand their rights and duties and demand accountability from leaders.

Indeed, it provides the basis of our nationhood, the claim to sovereign status, and the freedom to dream of a development path uninhibited by external restrictions.

As we celebrate, it is essential to acknowledge the progress made and challenges ahead.

The Constitution has guided Ghana through multiple peaceful transitions of power, establishing the country as a beacon of democracy in Africa.

It has triggered nine democratic elections, survived eight administrations, and occasioned multiple transitions.

However, there is still work to be done to strengthen institutions and promote civic engagement.

The ongoing constitution review process presents an opportunity to address pressing national issues and to ensure that the Constitution remains relevant and effective.

Ghana's Constitution Review Committee has proposed significant changes to strengthen the country's democracy and governance.

Some key recommendations include ending the constitutional requirement for the President to appoint Ministers from among Members of Parliament (MPs) to improve parliamentary oversight and reduce conflicts of interest.

The committee has also recommended the strengthening of the appointment processes for key independent bodies to ensure transparency, competitiveness and merit-based selections.

It has further suggested extending presidential and parliamentary terms from four years to five years to reduce election frequency and allow for longer-term development planning.

On local governance, it has recommended that metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives (MMDCEs) must be directly elected to deepen decentralisation and local accountability.

Regarding anti-corruption, the committee has suggested the establishment of an independent anti-corruption and ethics commission with investigative and prosecutorial powers.

The proposed reforms aim to enhance accountability, transparency and citizen engagement in Ghana's governance.

What remains now about the process is the government’s response and the setting up of the relevant protocols towards the implementation of the proposed amendments. 

As witnessed in the work of the Constitution Review Committee, the participation of the citizenry is critical in giving the process both legitimacy and the required backing.

Participation of citizens in governance is important, and it can be achieved by empowering citizens to initiate constitutional amendments and requiring MPs to hold town-hall meetings when Parliament goes on recess.

These engagements bring governance to the lowest level and solicit the buy-in of the average citizen in the governance process.

Under such circumstances, society feels part of the governance process, and can defend the Constitution and the system when the need arises at any time.

Upon the completion of the work of the Constitution Review Committee, the government generously allowed the release of the entire document to the public.

It was a commendable first step in yielding to accountability as desired in the governance space.

It sought to carry everyone along, and not to take anybody by surprise. 

Subsequently, the public discourse on the recommendations for amendment has been generally cordial and healthy.

From political commentators to civil society advocates and the average citizen, the discussions about the proposals of the committee have been engaging and educative.

The essence of transparency is derived when the public is well informed.

So far this value has been achieved in the transparent and engaging discourse over the proposals for amendment of the Constitution.

Such processes must be maintained and sustained in the life of the Constitution for it to continue to remain the living document the society desires to have it.

As Ghana celebrates Constitution Day, it is essential to reflect on the progress made and challenges ahead.

The Daily Graphic urges citizens to take ownership of the Constitution and promote civic education.