Tema residents urge Mahama to prioritise constitutional amendments

By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah

Tema, Dec 10, GNA – Some residents of Tema Community One have called on the president-elect, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, to prioritise constitutional reforms as he prepares to assume office on January 07, 2025.

The residents believe that addressing gaps in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution would strengthen democratic governance, promote accountability, and improve the overall well-being of citizens.

They highlighted the need for key amendments, including a review of the executive powers vested in the presidency and the process for appointing local government officials, among others.

Mr. Kingsley Andyson, a civil servant, said: “We need a balance of power among the branches of government that will ensure that decisions will be made in the best interest of Ghanaians and also prevent abuse of power.

“Reforming the constitution is a national issue, not a party agenda. It requires broad consultation and consensus-building to ensure lasting solutions.”

Mr. Edward Nyavie, a home tutor, said he was hopeful that constitutional amendments would address critical gaps and create a governance system that better serves the people.

“There have been several calls to amend the constitution over the years; I know this is the best time for the president-elect to prove to us that he came to serve Ghanaians,” Ms. Yvonne Amponsah stated.

Some, however, appealed to the president-elect to focus on addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment to alleviate economic struggles young people face due to limited job opportunities.

They also advocated for policies that would support small and medium-sized enterprises, which they believe could provide sustainable employment for many young people.

“The youth need jobs, and even if he can’t create jobs for the youth, he should make sure the environment is serene for businesses to thrive; it has not been easy for some time now,” Mr. Felix Ankrah, a shoe dealer, said.

GNA