1992 Constitution
1. To Enhance Accountability
The current system allows the President to ignore the advice of the Council of State without providing any justification. This lack of accountability undermines the purpose of having an advisory body composed of experienced and knowledgeable individuals. By making the Council’s advice binding or requiring the President to justify any deviations, the government becomes more transparent and accountable to the people.
Why it matters: Accountability ensures that leaders act in the public’s best interest, not just their own. It builds trust in government institutions.
2. To Strengthen Checks and Balances
In a democracy, no single branch of government should have unchecked power. The Council of State is meant to serve as a check on the executive branch, but its current advisory role limits its effectiveness. Reforms would empower the Council to play a more active role in governance, ensuring that the President’s decisions are well-considered and balanced.
Why it matters: Strong checks and balances prevent abuse of power and promote fair governance.
3. To Promote Good Governance
The Council of State is composed of individuals with vast experience and expertise. Their advice, if taken seriously, can lead to better decision-making and policies that benefit the nation. Ignoring their recommendations risks poor governance and missed opportunities for progress.
Why it matters: Good governance leads to economic growth, social development, and improved quality of life for citizens.
4. To Align with Best Practices
Sophia Akuffo cited India as an example where similar advisory bodies have a more influential role. In India, the President must provide strong justification for disregarding advice, ensuring that the advisory body’s input is respected. Adopting such a system in Ghana would align the country with international best practices.
Why it matters: Learning from successful models in other democracies can help Ghana improve its governance systems.
5. To Address Public Distrust
Many Ghanaians are skeptical about the effectiveness of government institutions. Reforming the Constitution to make the Council of State’s advice binding would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and inclusivity, helping to restore public trust.
Why it matters: Trust in government is essential for social cohesion and national development.
Why Now?
Ghana is at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. With rising concerns about governance, corruption, and accountability, now is the time to strengthen institutions and ensure they serve the people effectively. Reforming the Constitution to empower the Council of State is a step toward addressing these challenges.
Call to Action: Why You Should Care
Constitutional reforms may seem like a distant issue, but they directly impact the quality of governance and the lives of everyday citizens. Here’s why you should care and what you can do:
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the Constitution and its impact on governance.
- Advocate for Change: Share articles like this and engage in discussions about the need for reforms.
- Hold Leaders Accountable: Demand transparency and accountability from your elected officials.
For more on Ghana’s governance, visit Ghana Government Portal.
Conclusion
The call for constitutional reforms by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo is not just about changing words in a document—it’s about building a stronger, more accountable, and transparent government. By making the Council of State’s advice binding, Ghana can take a significant step toward better governance and a brighter future for all its citizens.