Benjamin Kofi Quashie, Chair of the South African Council of Elders for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), articulated his perspective on the constitutional amendments proposed by President-Elect Mahama, emphasizing that these changes are designed to benefit the Ghanaian populace and not to extend Mahama’s presidential term. Quashie, speaking on Kessben 92.9 FM, argued that the constitutional review is a necessary and overdue process, highlighting specific areas that the incoming NDC government should prioritize. He advocated for amendments to the National Development Planning Commission’s (NDPC) statute to ensure greater adherence by successive governments to the commission’s development plans. He stressed the need for more binding mechanisms to enforce compliance with the NDPC’s long-term strategic vision for the nation’s development, suggesting that the current framework, while requiring interaction with the NDPC, lacks the necessary teeth to ensure consistent implementation of its recommendations.
Quashie also addressed the concentration of power in the presidency, a concern he identified as widely held among Ghanaians. He emphasized the importance of redistributing power to create a more balanced and accountable governance structure. This, he suggested, would help to mitigate the potential risks associated with excessive executive authority and promote a more inclusive and democratic decision-making process. He did not, however, offer specific proposals on how this redistribution of power should be achieved, leaving the specifics for further discussion and debate. His comments underscore a growing sentiment within Ghana for greater checks and balances on executive power.
The discussion also touched upon the adequacy of the four-year presidential term. Quashie argued that the current term length is sufficient for a focused and efficient administration to fulfill its mandate. He cited examples from Mahama’s previous tenure, such as the commencement and completion of Terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport and the Ridge Hospital project, to demonstrate that significant progress can be achieved within four years. He implied that delays and unfulfilled promises are often a result of a lack of focus and effective governance, rather than an inherent limitation of the term length itself. He emphasized that a committed president can achieve substantial results within the existing framework.
Quashie further underscored Mahama’s experience and familiarity with the demands of the presidency, highlighting his previous experience as a key qualification for effective leadership. He expressed confidence in Mahama’s ability to implement institutional reforms and initiate positive changes for the benefit of Ghanaians within a single term. This, he suggested, is reflected in Mahama’s careful consideration of the team he intends to assemble for his administration. The emphasis on the importance of the presidential team suggests a recognition of the significance of capable and dedicated individuals in translating policy visions into tangible outcomes.
Quashie’s comments provide insight into the NDC’s proposed constitutional reforms and the rationale behind them. The focus on strengthening the NDPC’s authority reflects a commitment to long-term development planning and the establishment of a more stable and predictable policy environment. The concern regarding the concentration of executive power echoes a broader societal desire for more inclusive and accountable governance. Finally, the emphasis on Mahama’s experience and the importance of a strong team signals the NDC’s intention to prioritize effective and efficient governance aimed at delivering tangible benefits to the Ghanaian people.
In conclusion, Quashie’s remarks provide a glimpse into the NDC’s governance philosophy and its priorities for constitutional reform. The proposed changes aim to address key concerns regarding development planning, power distribution, and government effectiveness. The underlying message is one of a commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive governance, and delivering tangible results within the existing constitutional framework. The specific details of the proposed amendments and their implementation will undoubtedly be subject to further discussion and debate as the new administration takes office. However, Quashie’s comments offer a valuable starting point for understanding the direction of the NDC’s proposed reforms and the rationale behind them.
