President Mahama calls for Ghanaians to participate in the Constitutional Review Process, emphasizing its importance in reflecting national aspirations and improving governance. He acknowledges the 1992 Constitution’s stability but recognizes flaws needing attention. The newly established Review Constitutional Committee aims to conduct a comprehensive review to ensure the constitution remains relevant and effective.
President John Dramani Mahama has called upon all Ghanaians to actively engage in the ongoing Constitutional Review Process by submitting their recommendations and memoranda to the Constitutional Review Committee. He emphasized that this initiative presents an invaluable opportunity to ensure that the constitutional framework genuinely reflects the desires of the Ghanaian populace and acts as a solid foundation for national advancement.
During his address at Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary Celebration Parade on March 6, President Mahama highlighted the significance of the 1992 Constitution, which has provided a stable governance framework and sustained the longest period of constitutional democracy in Ghana’s history. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that, like any enduring legal framework, it exhibits certain flaws and loopholes.
The President noted that the late President John Evans Atta Mills initiated a constitutional review process in 2010, leading to the formation of the Constitutional Review Commission. He pointed out that the previous administration under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also undertook constitutional reviews, indicating a commitment to this essential process.
In recognition of the changing national and global dynamics, President Mahama established a new Review Constitutional Committee to conduct a thorough and inclusive evaluation of the Constitution. He affirmed that this undertaking is crucial, as the robustness of democracy, the integrity of the constitutional framework, and the rule of law require ongoing rejuvenation.
He warned against allowing any weaknesses within the governance framework to persist, which could jeopardize national stability, and instead encouraged proactive measures to fortify the foundations of democracy. The President quoted Ghana’s founding leader, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who noted, “The forces that unite us are inherently and far greater than the divisions imposed upon us.”
Former President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania was the special guest of honor at the celebration, which included notable attendees such as Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor. The traditional national day parade was relocated from Independence Square to the forecourt of the Presidency to achieve cost savings.
In conclusion, President Mahama’s address emphasizes the importance of Ghanaians’ involvement in the Constitutional Review Process, as it is pivotal for ensuring that the nation’s constitution is updated and reflective of current aspirations. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to democracy and national stability through proactive governance reforms. By acknowledging past efforts and creating a new committee, the President aims to reinforce the constitutional framework essential for ongoing progress in Ghana.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
