Constitution Review Committee Engages Stakeholders in Wa

The Constitution Review Committee on Monday, June 23, held a public stakeholder engagement in Wa, Upper West Region, as part of its nationwide consultations aimed at reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

The event brought together traditional leaders, civil society organizations, government institutions, and youth groups.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, emphasized the committee’s broad mandate to revisit and update Ghana’s constitutional framework.

Appointed by President John Dramani Mahama, the committee is expected to draw upon several existing sources, including the 2010 Constitution Review Commission report and other recent reform proposals.

"We are to consider the previous work done, including that of the 2010 Constitution Review Commission, and reports from similar exercises over the past few years,” Prof. Prempeh said.

"We are also looking at past Ghanaian constitutions and gathering the views of Ghanaians from all walks of life."

He explained that since its formation in late January 2025, the committee has already begun consultations, beginning in Accra in March with a series of thematic stakeholder engagements. These sessions covered 13 key constitutional areas and included input from experts, institutions, and advocacy groups.

Lawyer Charles Lwanga Puozuing, Upper West Regional Minister, acknowledged the foundational role of the 1992 Constitution in restoring democratic governance but stressed the need for reforms to match Ghana’s evolving social and political landscape.

“Our democratic journey has matured, our institutions have been tested, and our people’s aspirations have become more sophisticated and dynamic. It is only logical and responsible that the supreme law of the land reflects these emerging realities,” he said.

He further highlighted regional concerns and proposals raised during local consultations. These included strong calls for constitutionally entrenched provisions to ensure equitable distribution of national resources across all 16 regions, with particular attention to underdeveloped areas in the north.

Other major recommendations included:

• Election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to enhance accountability.

• Constitutional guarantees for the rights of persons with disabilities, women, and the youth.

• Curtailing the excessive appointive powers of the executive by strengthening parliamentary oversight.

• Restructuring the Council of State to improve its effectiveness, representativeness, and non-partisan character.

The engagement forms part of a broader national effort to solicit inclusive input as the committee works toward a more representative and responsive constitutional order.