The Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) has proposed creating a Multiparty Democracy and Constitutional Reform Commission (MDCRC) to ensure constitutional reforms in Ghana are implemented consistently, regardless of political party in power.
Speaking at a policy dialogue in Accra, Senior Research Fellow Mr Kwasi Jonah explained that Ghana’s constitutional reform efforts have repeatedly stalled since 2010 due to political disagreements and changing governments. “If you have a body like this in existence, it would collect ideas for reform and make sure they are implemented,” he said.
The MDCRC is envisioned as an independent regulatory body, separate from the Electoral Commission, tasked with monitoring political parties and administering constitutional reform processes. IDEG argues that a permanent technical commission would prevent reforms from being abandoned mid-process and reduce wasted resources caused by political deadlock.
Professor Kofi Quashigah, former Dean of the University of Ghana Law School, supported the proposal, suggesting that such a body could gather reform proposals continuously and present them for approval via referenda during national elections, ensuring comprehensive rather than piecemeal changes.
Ms Becky Enyonam Ahadzi, Coordinator of the Affirmative Action Law Coalition, emphasized that reforms must also address systemic exclusion of women in elected positions, not just appointed roles, to achieve meaningful inclusivity in governance.
IDEG had previously presented the MDCRC proposal to the Constitutional Review Committee in April 2025, but it was not included in the committee’s recommendations to the President. The organization now plans to advocate for parliamentary consideration before the final implementation of constitutional amendments.
