Africazine:
The Ghanaian government is moving to extend presidential terms from four to five years.
Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine announced this recommendation on July 30, 2026, during the Government Accountability Series in Accra. The proposed change would also affect parliamentary terms, allowing for a more effective governance period.
Ghana Proposes Extension of Presidential Terms
Dr. Ayine emphasized that the current four-year term limits effective governance. He pointed out that the initial months of any administration are often consumed by transition activities, while the final year is largely focused on election preparations. This structure leaves little room for meaningful policy formulation and implementation.
By extending the term to five years, the government aims to provide a more realistic timeframe for leaders to assess and execute their policies effectively. This change is intended to enhance the overall governance framework in Ghana.
Ghana: Key figures on Presidential Term Extension
- Current presidential term: four years
- Proposed presidential term: five years
Context of the Proposed Change
The recommendation follows the final suggestions from the Constitution Review Committee. Dr. Ayine clarified that if the amendment is approved, it would only apply to future presidents, not the current administration. This distinction is crucial for understanding the timeline and implications of the proposed change.
Next Steps for Constitutional Amendment
- Approval of the proposed change through the constitutional amendment process
- Implementation of the new term limits for future administrations
This proposed change aims to strengthen governance in Ghana by allowing longer terms for elected officials.
