Is It Possible For A Government To Change Or Extend The 8-Year Presidential Term Limit Of Ghana?

Permit me to preamble by saying that it is highly unlikely that the 8-year presidential term limit in Ghana can be changed or extended by any government. According to Article 66(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, "a person shall not be elected to hold office as President of Ghana for more than two terms".

This provision is designed to prevent the concentration of power and promote democratic accountability. Any attempt to amend this provision would require a constitutional amendment ;which involves a complex and rigorous process.

A Change Or An Extension Of The 8-year Tenure

Although it is theoretically possible for a government to attempt to change or extend the presidential term limit, there are significant constitutional and political hurdles to overcome :

A. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT :

Any intended changes to the presidential term limit would require a constitutional amendment, which involves a complex and rigorous process. And will call for a two-thirds majority vote in Parliament and approval in a national referendum.The emphasis is that it is not only a two-thirds majority representation in the legislature that determines it.

B. POLITICAL OPPOSITION :

Again, any attempt to extend the presidential term limit would likely face strong opposition from civil society, opposition parties, and the general public among others.

C. JUDICIAL REVIEW :

In case a government were to attempt to unilaterally extend the presidential term limit, the judiciary could intervene to prevent such a move, citing the Constitution and the rule of law. Example; Articles 2 and 290 of the Constitution.

Some plausible negative external impacts on a change in the 8-year limit

If Ghana were to extend the limit of its presidency's tenure, the international community might respond in several ways:

A. DIPLOMATIC PRESSURE

The international community might exert diplomatic pressure on the country to reverse its decision and respect its constitutionally mandated term limits.

B. ECONOMIC SANCTIONS

In some cases, the international community might impose economic sanctions on the country to punish it for its actions.

C. SUSPENSION FROM INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS

The country might be suspended from international organizations, such as the African Union, as a result of its actions.

D. LOSS OF INTERNATIONAL AID

The country might also face a loss of international aid and assistance, which could have significant economic and social implications.

CONCLUSION

In summary, while it is not impossible for a government to attempt to change or extend the presidential term limit, the constitutional, political barriers and safeguards in place make it extremely challenging in achieving that dream.

FRED OWUSU NKANSAH
( NKAWKAW )
#0243920892 10/10/24