THE GHANAIAN CONSTITUTION @33: RESETTING GHANA’S DEMOCRACY FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

As Ghana marks 33 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy, with Constitution Day observed on 7th January 2026, the occasion offers more than a moment of remembrance. It presents a defining opportunity for national reflection, democratic renewal, and collective civic action.

Since its promulgation on 7th January 1993, the 1992 Fourth Republican Constitution has stood as the supreme law of the land. It has anchored democratic governance, safeguarded fundamental human rights and freedoms, and provided a stable framework for political order, accountability, and peaceful transitions of power. For more than three decades, the 1992 Constitution has guided Ghana’s democratic journey and earned both national confidence and international respect.

This year’s Constitution Day carries particular significance. It coincides with an ongoing national conversation on constitutional reform, aimed at aligning the Constitution with emerging digital realities, evolving socio-economic aspirations, and contemporary governance challenges. As society is reshaped by technology, globalization, and changing demographics, it has become imperative to ensure that Ghana’s constitutional order remains responsive, inclusive, and future-ready.

It is against this backdrop that the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), chaired by Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, submitted its final report to the President of the Republic on 22nd December 2025. The report is the culmination of extensive nationwide consultations, expert analysis, and careful consideration of the lived experiences of Ghanaians. It reflects a collective aspiration for a Constitution that delivers more effectively for the people in practical and meaningful ways.

Upon receiving the report, President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the CRC’s recommendations to strengthen Ghana’s democracy. Describing the report as a breakthrough, he pledged transparency by making it publicly accessible and emphasized the importance of broad consensus and bipartisan cooperation in advancing the proposed reforms.

The President reiterated this commitment in his New Year message to the nation, affirming that his government will act on the CRC’s recommendations to enhance the 1992 Constitution as a stronger guide for democratic consolidation. This assurance signals the beginning of a critical phase - one that demands active and informed citizen engagement to ensure that any amendments deepen democratic accountability, expand participation, protect rights, and promote inclusive socio-economic development in an increasingly digital era.

It is equally encouraging to note that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has constituted a committee to examine the CRC’s final recommendations submitted to the President. This process will inform the party’s official position on the proposals. As a major stakeholder in Ghana’s democratic governance, it is my fervent hope that political parties will, as most of them did during the consultative phase, make constructive and meaningful contributions toward the successful implementation of reforms that will strengthen and modernize our Constitution.

As a nation, we must also pause to commend ourselves for taking this bold and proactive step to review a Constitution that has served Ghana well through decades of peace, stability, and democratic maturity.

Constitutional reform is not a purely technical or elite-driven exercise. It is fundamentally a people-centred process. The Constitution derives its legitimacy from the sovereign will of the people of Ghana, and its evolution must likewise be shaped by their voices. Matters such as digital governance, public accountability, social inclusion, youth participation, economic justice, and effective service delivery affect every Ghanaian and therefore require broad-based public input.

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) therefore calls on all Ghanaians - traditional authorities, civil society organizations, faith-based groups, the media, the private sector, women, youth, and persons with disabilities - to actively participate in the constitutional amendment process. Through sustained civic education, informed dialogue, and constructive engagement, citizens can help refine the Constitution to reflect contemporary realities while preserving its core democratic values.

As we commemorate Constitution Day 2026, let us move beyond celebration to civic responsibility. Let us reaffirm our commitment to democratic governance by engaging meaningfully in the processes that shape our supreme law. Together, we can strengthen a Constitution that is responsive, resilient, and unimpeachable, for present and future generations.

The Constitution is ours. Its future depends on our participation.

Long live the Ghanaian Constitution!

May God bless our homeland Ghana and make her great and strong!

Eric Adu, Esq.

(Director, NCCE – Ahafo Region)

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