Paragraph 1: Presidential Swearing-in Ceremonies
President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to conduct two significant swearing-in ceremonies on Thursday at the seat of government in Accra. The first ceremony, slated for 3:00 pm, will formally induct members of the Constitution Review Committee. Following this, at 4:30 pm, the President will swear in the third batch of ministerial nominees. These events mark important steps in advancing Ghana’s governance and constitutional development. The Constitution Review Committee will play a crucial role in examining and proposing amendments to the 1992 Constitution, while the new ministers will assume their responsibilities in key government portfolios.
Paragraph 2: Ministerial Appointments
The ministerial nominees to be sworn in represent a diverse group of individuals selected to lead various sectors of the government. They include Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources, Tia Ibrahim as North East Regional Minister-designate, Dr. Frank Amoakohene as Ashanti Regional Minister-designate, and Akamugri Atanga Modestus as Upper East Regional Minister-designate. Additionally, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka has been nominated for the Interior Ministry, and Madam Agnes Naa Momo Lartey for the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. These appointments reflect the President’s ongoing efforts to build a capable and representative government.
Paragraph 3: Constitution Review Committee Composition and Mandate
The eight-member Constitution Review Committee is tasked with a critical mission: to evaluate the 1992 Constitution and propose amendments to enhance Ghana’s democratic governance. Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has been appointed as Chairman, with Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya serving as Secretary. The committee also includes Justice Sophia Adinyirah, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Mrs. Charlotte Osei, Dr. Esi Ansah, Prof. Kwame Karikari, and Mr. Ibrahim Tanko Amidu. Their collective expertise spans various fields relevant to constitutional law, governance, and public policy.
Paragraph 4: Scope of the Committee’s Review
The Constitution Review Committee’s mandate is multifaceted. It will identify and address any gaps and challenges in implementing previous constitutional review work, particularly that of the 2010 Committee. This involves a thorough examination of past recommendations and their effectiveness. Furthermore, the committee will engage with key stakeholders across Ghanaian society to gather diverse perspectives on potential constitutional amendments. This consultative approach aims to ensure that the review process is inclusive and reflects the will of the people.
Paragraph 5: Objectives and Timeline for the Review
The overarching goal of the Constitution Review Committee is to strengthen democratic governance in Ghana. This will be achieved by formulating actionable recommendations for constitutional amendments. The committee is expected to present these recommendations to the government within five months. This timeframe underscores the importance of a timely and efficient review process. Once the recommendations are submitted, the government will carefully consider them and determine the appropriate course of action.
Paragraph 6: Significance of the Review Process
The formation of the Constitution Review Committee and the selection of its members highlights President Mahama’s commitment to good governance and democratic principles. The committee’s composition reflects a deliberate effort to include individuals with proven expertise, dedication to public service, and a strong commitment to enhancing Ghana’s democratic framework. The review process itself is a testament to the dynamism of Ghana’s democracy, demonstrating a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to the changing needs and aspirations of its citizens. The outcome of this review will significantly impact the future of Ghana’s governance and its journey towards a more robust and inclusive democracy.
