The Constitution Review Committee (CRC) has proposed major reforms aimed at strengthening the independence, credibility, and professionalism of Ghana’s Electoral Commission by introducing fixed, non-renewable terms and post-service restrictions for its leadership.
Under the proposal, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the Deputy Commissioners would serve a single, non-renewable term of ten years or retire upon attaining the age of 65, whichever comes first. The recommendation would require an amendment to Article 223 of the 1992 Constitution.
The Committee explained that fixed, non-renewable terms would allow EC leaders to perform their duties without fear of political pressure or concern about reappointment, thereby reinforcing institutional independence and impartial decision-making.
In addition to tenure reforms, the CRC has proposed a “cooling-off” period for former EC officials. Under this recommendation, any person who has served as EC Chairperson or Deputy Commissioner would be barred from holding any other public office for three years after leaving the Commission. The measure is intended to clearly separate electoral management from future public appointments and prevent potential conflicts of interest.
Presenting the Committee’s report to John Dramani Mahama at Jubilee House on Monday, December 22, the CRC stated that the proposed changes would provide security of tenure for EC leadership while safeguarding the neutrality of the electoral process.
According to the Committee, the reforms form part of its wider constitutional review agenda, which seeks to strengthen democratic institutions, improve governance standards, and deepen public confidence in Ghana’s electoral and democratic systems.
