Ghana's CRIC lacks authority over constitutional reform bills

Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Secretary of Ghana’s newly formed Constitution Review Implementation Committee (CRIC), has clarified that the body lacks policymaking authority. He stated that the 11-member committee serves a strictly technical role, acting as a relay for stakeholder views rather than a decision-making entity.

Barker-Vormawor emphasized that the committee will gather position papers, synthesize stakeholder views, and facilitate discussions to build consensus, but it will not determine the contents of constitutional amendment bills. He noted that the ultimate power to shape reform lies with Parliament and political parties, describing the committee’s role as moving along what the political process settles.

Furthermore, Barker-Vormawor stressed that constitutional reform must not be a “one-party project,” noting that the requirements for parliamentary votes and referendums necessitate broad consensus and compromise among all stakeholders.