Ghana constitutional reform debate intensifies over executive power

Debate regarding constitutional reform in Ghana is intensifying as legal experts discuss methods to strengthen democratic stability. Speaking at an Institute of Economic Affairs seminar, former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo advocated for reforms aimed at curbing excessive executive power and increasing government accountability. She suggested that empowering the judiciary and Parliament would create more effective checks on the Executive.

Akuffo emphasized the need for a broad, consultative, and nationally owned process, cautioning against rushing changes to the 1992 Constitution. Legal practitioner Victor Anku-Tsede also advised caution, noting that not every governance issue necessitates a constitutional amendment. He argued that the focus should remain on addressing specific weaknesses in public power without unnecessarily altering the fundamental rules and relationships between institutions.