Alan Kyerematen To Review The Constitution To Reduce Presidential Powers And Enhance Governance

Alan Kyerematen has pledged to decrease the excessive powers granted to the President under Ghana’s Constitution, describing them as unacceptable. Speaking during the Presidential Encounters organized by the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) on 22nd November 2024, he emphasized his determination to bring about alter. “Yes, I am contesting to become president, but I intend to review the Constitution to decrease the powers of the president before I become the president,” he declared.

As part of his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), Mr. Kyerematen outlined far-reaching reforms aimed at decentralizing governance, limiting presidential influence, and creating a more balanced system of power.

At the heart of his governance reforms is the establishment of a Second Chamber of Parliament. This body will comprise representatives from traditional authorities, religious leaders, youth groups, women, the business community, labor unions, and other stakeholders. Its mandate will include approving nominations for key positions such as the Chief Justice, the Electoral Commissioner, and heads of security agencies.

Mr. Kyerematen argued that allowing the President to directly appoint these figures compromises their independence. “How can you expect complete freedom for these institutions when their heads are appointed by the President? This system must alter to reflect true democracy,” he noted.

Alan Kyerematen also reiterated his zero-tolerance policy on corruption, beginning with leadership by example. He plans to consolidate anti-corruption legislation and establish an independent anti-corruption body with prosecutorial authority entirely separate from the Attorney General’s Office.

To ensure the body’s autonomy, he proposed that an anti-corruption Czar be appointed by the Second Chamber of Parliament, not the President. “The anti-corruption Czar must derive their authority from the Constitution, not the presidency,” he stressed. He criticized the overlap between the Attorney General and anti-corruption agencies, adding, “It is improper for the Attorney General to oversee the work of the anti-corruption Czar, as it compromises the independence of the office. This must alter to ensure accountability at all levels.”

Mr. Kyerematen accused the NDC and NPP of perpetuating corruption, stating, “Corruption remains rife because the NDC and NPP governments are not genuinely interested in fighting it. They have created a system where corruption fuels their political machinery, leaving the nation to suffer the consequences.”

On the galamsey menace, Mr. Kyerematen accused both the NDC and NPP of having vested interests that prevent decisive action. “Both parties have shown no commitment to ending galamsey because they have benefitted directly or indirectly from this illegal activity,” he charged.

He pledged to reform Article 257 of the Constitution to make traditional authorities co-trustees of natural resources. He explained, “It is illogical for the Minerals Commission to grant mining licenses without consulting chiefs, who are custodians of the land.”

Mr. Kyerematen also committed to addressing inequities in compensation under Article 71, which grants significant retirement benefits to a select group of public officials. He criticized the disparity, stating, “How can we justify these benefits when teachers, health workers, and others who serve for decades retire on paltry pensions? This is unacceptable, and my government will review these provisions to ensure fairness.”

Mr. Kyerematen underscored the need for constitutional reforms to combat entrenched corruption and strengthen democratic governance. These changes, coupled with his anti-corruption and decentralization agenda, aim to create a more inclusive governance structure, according to him. He concluded, “I do not seek the presidency to hoard power but to share it with the people and institutions that will strengthen our democracy.”

Alan Kyerematen’s vision, grounded in his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), seeks to address systemic obstacles and build a fairer, more accountable government.

Josephine Acheampomaa/[email#160;protected]