The Constitution Review Committee (CRC) met with the Judiciary last Friday to deliberate on crucial matters affecting the administration of justice in Ghana.
The high-level meeting, chaired by Acting Chief Justice and Chief Justice-nominee Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, explored a number of constitutional and judicial concerns — including the appointment and removal procedures for Superior Court judges.
CRC Chairperson Prof. H. Kwesi Prempeh described the engagement as a major milestone in the constitutional review process, underscoring the committee’s commitment to inclusive and transparent reform.
Discussions also focused on the optimal size and jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and other superior courts in Ghana’s judicial structure.
Key Discussion Points
Prof. Prempeh noted that the committee and the Judiciary examined the administrative powers and responsibilities of the Chief Justice, with particular emphasis on clarifying the scope of the office’s authority.
He further highlighted the need for financial independence for the Judiciary, stressing that true judicial autonomy depends on control over its own financial management.
Other key issues included the conditions of service and welfare of judicial personnel, as well as strategies for improving efficiency and access to justice in the lower courts.
According to Prof. Prempeh, the meeting forms part of the CRC’s wider consultation efforts to gather feedback from diverse stakeholders before submitting reform recommendations to the government.
Background
The Constitution Review Committee was established in January 2025 by President John Dramani Mahama to review Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
Its mandate is to recommend reforms aimed at strengthening governance, deepening democracy, and promoting national development.
As part of its engagement strategy, the CRC has held targeted stakeholder consultations, zonal public forums, and invited written submissions and recommendations through email and online platforms to ensure broad citizen participation.
What is Next?
In an earlier interview, the Committee’s Secretary, Dr. Rainer Akumperigya, confirmed that—barring any unforeseen circumstances—the draft report on the constitutional review will be presented to President Mahama in October 2025.
The CRC’s engagement with the Judiciary is widely seen as a significant step toward creating a more effective, independent, and accountable justice system that supports Ghana’s constitutional and democratic growth.
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