Institute of Economic Affairs pushes for Ghanaian constitutional reforms

The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) is advocating for significant constitutional reforms in Ghana to enhance public accountability and resource management. The think tank has rejected the government's position regarding Article 257(6) of the 1992 Constitution, arguing that mineral deposits, water bodies, and public lands should vest directly in the people of Ghana rather than the executive presidency. The IEA maintains that this shift would establish a clear public trust framework, requiring state institutions to manage national wealth transparently for current and future generations.

Additionally, the IEA supports proposed amendments to Article 286 to combat corruption and illicit enrichment among public officials. These proposals, suggested by the Constitution Review Committee, include mechanisms for lifestyle and wealth audits, a reverse burden of proof for unexplained wealth increases, and stricter deadlines for asset declarations. While the government has suggested addressing these issues through ordinary legislation, the IEA insists these obligations should be entrenched in the Constitution to ensure they are enforceable, provided that adequate safeguards are in place to protect the rights of public officers.