Under the proposals, chiefs would initially take part in the legislative and deliberative work of district assemblies. Over time, they would assume more direct governing roles at the sub-district level in towns and villages.

The committee also recommends the creation of a Devolution Commission to oversee the phased introduction of elections for MMDCEs, instead of holding elections in all 261 districts at the same time. Districts that meet clearly defined benchmarks would begin the process, with others joining later.

On the presidency, the report proposes extending the presidential term from four years to five years, alongside limits on campaign activities.

It suggests a defined campaign period, outside which political parties and candidates would not be allowed to engage in activities such as rallies, posters and billboards.

“We hope if this is accepted that we will have a political or electoral environment where we do not run 24-hour, 24-seven, four-year campaigns,” Prof Prempeh explained.

The committee is also calling for an end to what it describes as the hybrid relationship between the executive and the legislature, in favour of clearer separation between the two arms of government.

Changes are proposed for the public sector to reduce partisan influence. The report suggests placing state-owned enterprises under constitutional oversight through a body akin to the State Interests and Governance Authority.

“We believe that we need to protect the state sector from over-politicisation,” Prof Prempeh said, adding that the economic weight and systemic risks of such enterprises justify closer constitutional regulation.

Under the proposals, the Council of State would receive expanded authority, moving closer to its original 1969 conception as a co-guarantor in presidential appointments.

The report also recommends the creation of a new anti-corruption commission to bring together corruption prosecution functions currently spread across several agencies. Under this arrangement, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice would concentrate on human rights and ombudsman duties.

The role of the Attorney General would also be adjusted, with some responsibilities reassigned to reduce the burden on the office.

Receiving the report, President Mahama described it as “a beautiful Christmas gift” and commended the committee for its integrity and credibility.

He announced plans to set up an implementation committee early in 2026 and said some members of the review body would be invited to serve to allow continuity into the next phase.

“As soon as we resume early next year, we are moving from the constitutional review process into the implementation process,” the president said.

He acknowledged that some of the proposals were far-reaching but said they were needed to strengthen Ghana’s democratic order, especially at a time when constitutional governance in parts of the sub-region was under strain.

President Mahama said the report would be published soon, adding that he did not want it “kept like a nuclear secret,” though he did not give a publication date.

Prof Prempeh said the committee visited 10 regions and held engagements with academics, trade unions and citizens across the country. He said the consultations revealed strong public demand for change.