UMD petitions President Mahama to remove CRC Chairman

The United Movement for Development (UMD), a coalition of Ghanaian citizens and associations, has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to remove the Chairman of the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC), Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh.

The petition dated Monday, January 27, 2025, and signed by the convener, Abraham Klutsey, expressed concerns over Prof. Prempeh’s advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights and his perceived disregard for the Ghanaian cultural values; hence, rendering him unfit for the position.

Consequently, the group proposed the appointment of a former Supreme Court Justice, retired Justice William Atuguba, as a suitable replacement.

The petition was also copied to about 10 individuals and organisations, including the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin; the National Chief Imam, the President and all Members of the National House of Chiefs, the Majority Leader, the Minority Leader, Christian Council, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, the National Coalition For Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Ghana, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG).

Commendation

The coalition commended the President for his commitment to reviewing the 1992 Constitution and added that “this pivotal initiative reflects a dedication to addressing constitutional limitations, fostering inclusive governance, enhancing access to justice, and preserving and promoting the cultural and moral values that embody the aspirations of the Ghanaian people”.

The coalition, however, expressed the belief that those nominated to serve on the committee tasked with reviewing the Constitution should be individuals of the highest reputation and credibility.

“In this regard, Your Excellency, we commend your selection of the committee members, recognising the care taken in choosing those who will contribute meaningfully to this important task,” it stated.

“However, we respectfully express concerns about the inclusion of Prof. Kwasi Prempeh, whose public conduct, in our view, may not fully align with the esteemed qualities expected of such a distinguished role,” it stated.

Leadership

The UMD stated that Prof. Prempeh’s views on LGBTQ+ rights reflected a deviation from Ghanaian norms and posed a potential threat to societal cohesion.

The coalition described his stance as promoting “special privileges” for LGBTQ+ individuals, which they argued infringed on the rights of the broader population, undermined cultural integrity, and imposed undue financial burdens on the state. 

The coalition further criticised Prof. Prempeh’s academic influences, describing them as heavily shaped by Western ideologies that might not reflect the aspirations of Ghanaian citizens.

They indicated that his comments on the 1992 Constitution, particularly on “winner-take-all” politics prioritised personal gain over national welfare. 

“Prof. Kwasi Prempeh is nothing less than a champion for LGBTQ+ practitioners,” it stated. 

“Elevation by appointing him to chair the Constitutional Review Committee and propose amendments for over 33 million Ghanaians who oppose his ideology would be an endorsement of his unacceptable agenda. It is unfair to the majority of us,” it said.

That, the coalition expressed the belief, would embolden LGBTQ+ activists to intensify their assault on the sacred norms, traditions and values of Ghana, plunging the nation into further moral and cultural decay. 

Alternative

The coalition argued that Justice Atuguba, with over two decades of judicial experience embodied the cultural and moral values that aligned with the aspirations of Ghanaians.

“Justice Atuguba's distinguished 22-year tenure at the Supreme Court reflects his deep expertise in constitutional law, his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, and his alignment with the cultural and moral values cherished by Ghanaians,” it stated.

The coalition expressed the belief that Justice Atuguba’s integrity and understanding of the country’s constitutional framework would make him an ideal candidate to lead the review process.

“Your Excellency, we have unwavering confidence in your dedication to upholding the sovereignty, cultural heritage, and moral integrity of Ghana,” it stated.

It further said, “We are certain that you will act decisively to ensure that the leadership of this important committee reflects the trust and aspirations of the Ghanaian people.”