By Jibril Abdul Mumuni, GNA
Accra, Sept. 17, GNA – The Citizens’ Platform on Constitutional Reforms (CPCR) has reiterated its opposition to the continued appointment of Members of Parliament (MPs) as ministers.
The Platform said constitutional reforms should provide for a clearer distinction between the Executive and the Legislature to strengthen democratic governance and improve accountability.
Professor Akosua Darkwah, speaking on behalf of the CPCR at a press briefing in Accra on the Constitution Review process and the Government’s Position Paper, said the Platform disagreed with proposals that would allow MPs to continue serving simultaneously as ministers, deputies, and regional ministers.
She said while the Platform supported Parliament, it believed lawmakers should be constitutionally prohibited from serving on governing boards, councils and procurement committees of publicly funded institutions.
Prof Darkwa said one of the key objectives of the Constitution reform process was to address concerns about the concentration of power within the Executive and strengthen institutions responsible for holding government accountable.
She noted that Parliament’s primary role was to make laws, scrutinise government policies, and hold the Executive accountable on behalf of the citizens.
However, the appointment of MPs to ministerial positions often blurred the distinction between the Executive and Legislature, making effective oversight more difficult, Prof Darkwah said.
She noted that strengthening Parliament’s independence would enhance checks and balances within Ghana’s constitutional framework and deepen democratic accountability.
“Reforms aimed at reinforcing the separation of powers would allow Parliament to exercise its oversight functions more effectively without potential conflicts arising from dual responsibilities,” she added.
Prof Darkwah maintained that constitutional reforms should focus on creating stronger and more independent institutions capable of operating effectively regardless of the political party in government.
She called on the Government and the Constitution Review Implementation Committee to reconsider their position on the matter and adopt reforms that would promote greater institutional independence and accountability.
She said broad national dialogue and consensus-building would be critical to ensuring that any constitutional amendments reflected the aspirations of Ghanaians and strengthened the country’s democratic governance system.
Prof Darkwah said constitutional reform offered an opportunity to address longstanding governance concerns and build public confidence in democratic institutions.
She pledged the CPCR’s continuous engagement with Government, Parliament, political parties, organised labour, professional bodies and civil society organisations on issues arising from the Constitution Review.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Email: [email protected]