Constitutional review committee proposes capping MPs size, reduction of gov’t appointments

The Constitutional Review Consultative Committee, established by the government, has proposed capping the size of Ghana’s Parliament at 277 members.

This recommendation involves amending Article 93 of the Constitution to streamline legislative processes and enhance parliamentary efficiency.

Additionally, the committee suggests amending Article 47 to ensure that the total number of constituencies, as determined by the Electoral Commission (EC), does not exceed 277. This proposal aims to align the division of constituencies with the cap on the size of Parliament.

During a stakeholders’ consultation in Parliament in Accra on Thursday, the committee highlighted the need for structural changes in the electoral framework.

Among its recommendations is the elimination of Deputy Ministers and the abolition of Regional Ministers and Deputy Ministers positions, aiming to reduce redundancy and improve governmental efficiency.

Furthermore, the committee proposes that the president be restricted to appointing a maximum of 25 Ministers of State, necessary for the efficient running of the government. This measure is intended to curb excessive appointments and ensure a more cohesive and effective executive branch.

The recommendations by the constitutional review committee were presented during the stakeholders’ consultation for the possible review of the 1992 Constitution, bringing together various stakeholders to discuss and evaluate the proposed changes. The committee’s proposals are seen as a significant step towards reforming Ghana’s political and governance structures.