The Constitution Review Committee has recommended significant changes to the appointment processes for key public officials, as well as introducing new rules governing elections and presidential transitions in Ghana.
In its latest report, the Committee has suggested a comprehensive restructuring of public offices, categorizing them into four distinct groups: executive, independent, hybrid-independent, and hybrid-executive. Each category would have its own tailored procedures for appointments, with a focus on reducing the influence of presidential discretion.
For independent constitutional offices—such as the Electoral Commission, Auditor-General, and the Chief Justice—the Committee proposes that the President be required to select nominees from reformed bodies like the Council of State or the Judicial Council. These bodies would follow a merit-based and competitive selection process to ensure greater impartiality and professionalism in appointments.
This proposal, if adopted, would override the Supreme Court's 2015 ruling that allowed the President to bypass advice from constitutionally mandated bodies, further limiting presidential power in these key appointments.
To enhance the independence of these offices, the Committee also recommends that their terms be fixed and not aligned with the tenure of the President. Additionally, vacancies should be filled within 90 days, and interim appointments should be strictly regulated to prevent bypassing formal procedures.
In terms of elections, the Committee suggests moving presidential elections to the first week of November and extending the transition period between election results and the swearing-in of the new President to two months. It also proposes stricter timelines for handling presidential election petitions, requiring the Supreme Court to resolve any disputes within 30 days.
Further recommendations include limiting the power of the outgoing President during the transition period. Key actions such as last-minute appointments, the signing of major contracts, asset sales, or urgent legislation would be prohibited. Any such actions taken in violation of these rules would be declared void, ensuring that the incoming administration has a clear start without interference from the outgoing government.
If these proposals are implemented, they could bring about significant changes to the governance structure in Ghana, potentially creating a more transparent and balanced system for both elections and transitions.
Source: MyNewsGh.com
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