‘Second chamber’ proposal needs consideration
The ongoing constitutional reform in Ghana presents a timely opportunity to consider a critical question: how can we strengthen our law-making process to better serve the needs of our democracy?
Dr Hene Aku Kwapong, a senior fellow at the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has proposed the establishment of a Senior House of Parliament, an idea that warrants serious consideration.
The "second chamber" of a parliament is known as the Upper House, and examples include the House of Lords in the United Kingdom and the Senate in Canada and the United States.
While the specific roles and composition vary, the second chamber generally serves as a check and balance, providing more in-depth consideration of public policy and holding the government accountable.
Dr Hene Aku Kwapong believes that the establishment of a senior house of Parliament will enhance the country's law-making process and strengthen democracy.
This proposed chamber would merge the National House of Chiefs and the Council of State, creating a single entity where expertise, wisdom, and traditional knowledge converge to support the democratic process.
Parliament is currently tasked with drafting and passing bills, a process that requires a deep understanding of complex issues such as climate change, economic diversification, and healthcare.
The house would comprise renowned statesmen, experts in various sectors of the economy, traditional rulers and regional representatives.
This diverse composition would ensure that a wide range of perspectives and expertise are brought to bear on the law-making process.
By merging the National House of Chiefs and the Council of State, the senior house would provide a unique blend of traditional authority and professional expertise. It would play a critical role in reviewing draft bills from Parliament and making recommendations.
This would enable lawmakers to benefit from the expertise and experience of the senior house members, leading to more informed decision-making.
It could also delay the legislative process for up to six months, allowing for more thorough consideration and consultation.
The establishment of a senior house of parliament would have several benefits for the country's democracy.
Firstly, it would bring much-needed expertise to the law-making process, enabling lawmakers to make more informed decisions.
Secondly, it would provide a platform for traditional leaders and regional representatives to contribute to the legislative process, promoting greater inclusivity and representation.
Finally, a senior house would help to ensure that laws are passed with a long-term perspective, rather than being driven solely by short-term political considerations.
While the idea of a senior house is appealing, its implementation would require careful consideration of several challenges.
For instance, how would members of the senior house be selected, and what would be their tenure? How would the senior house interact with Parliament, and what would be the scope of its powers?
These are just a few of the questions that would need to be addressed in order to ensure the success of the senior house.
The proposal for a senior house of Parliament is an idea that deserves serious consideration as the country embarks on constitutional reform.
By bringing expertise, wisdom, and traditional knowledge to the law-making process, the senior house could help to strengthen the country's democracy and promote more informed decision-making.
As we move forward with the constitutional reform process, it is essential that we consider innovative solutions that will align with the hopes and aspirations of the average Ghanaian and also taking steps to improve upon the existing structures to build a more robust and more effective system of governance.
By considering the proposal for a Senior House of Parliament, Ghana can take a significant step towards building a more effective and representative system of governance.
The Daily Graphic urges all stakeholders to engage in a thoughtful and informed discussion about the potential benefits and challenges of this proposal, as we work towards a more robust and inclusive democracy.
