The Citizens Platform on Constitutional Reform (CPCR) has called on the President to urgently establish a Constitutional Review Implementation Committee (CRIC) to advance Ghana’s constitutional reform process.
The coalition, made up of about 80 civil society, professional and academic organisations, warned that the country cannot afford another stalled attempt, referencing previous efforts in 2011–2012 and 2019 that failed to yield results. It said successfully completing the ongoing 2025 review process would mark a historic milestone.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on March 16, CPCR Chairperson, Professor Akosua Darkwah, said the proposed implementation committee must be broadly representative, drawing members from civil society, academia, professional bodies and political actors to ensure transparency and inclusiveness.
She stressed that the committee should focus on executing the recommendations of the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), rather than reopening previously settled debates.
“The implementation committee must not become another deliberative body,” she noted, adding that its primary role should be to translate recommendations into action and build consensus among stakeholders.
The CPCR also urged the government to publish a clear timeline outlining the reform process, including stages of consultation, legislative procedures and any referendums required for constitutional amendments.
In addition, the coalition called for the immediate release of the full CRC report to promote transparency and enable meaningful public participation. It cautioned that any government position paper should not delay the report’s publication or misrepresent its findings.
“Citizens must have the opportunity to independently examine the committee’s proposals and engage constructively with the reform process,” Prof. Darkwah emphasised.
The group further warned against repeating past mistakes, noting that the White Paper issued after earlier reforms contributed to delays and waning public interest.
It stressed that swift action, clear timelines and strong political leadership are essential, particularly as the country approaches the 2026–2027 election cycle.
According to the CPCR, sustained public engagement and transparency will be key to rebuilding trust and ensuring the success of the constitutional reform agenda.
