Former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor has expressed support for a proposal to extend the country's presidential term from four to five years. He argues that the additional year would provide governments with more time to implement policies and deliver development projects. According to Mr. Kufuor, the current four-year term is too short for a developing country like Ghana.
Mr. Kufuor cited his experience as a former president, stating that the final year of a four-year term is often dominated by election campaigns rather than governance and policy implementation. He suggested that a five-year term would allow governments to devote four years to implementing their programs, with the fifth year serving as the main period for electioneering.
The proposal is part of Ghana's ongoing constitutional review debate. Any change to the presidential term would require following the applicable constitutional amendment process before it could take effect. The debate has centered on whether a longer presidential term would give successive governments sufficient time to implement policies and complete development projects while maintaining democratic accountability through regular elections.
Mr. Kufuor also rejected suggestions that his proposal was intended to prolong his own stay in office. He stated that he first raised the issue during his final State of the Nation Address, based on his practical experience as president. He acknowledged that his position differs from that of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), of which he is a member, but said the party was entitled to its own view.
Mr. Kufuor emphasized that he supports the two-term presidential limit but believes each term should last five years to provide a more practical timeframe for governance. He noted that election years are often characterized by political promises and campaigning, making it difficult for governments to concentrate fully on development priorities.
The former president's endorsement of the proposal has sparked discussion among Ghanaians and politicians. While some may agree with Mr. Kufuor's argument, others may disagree, citing concerns about the potential for abuse of power or the impact on democratic accountability.
The constitutional review debate is expected to continue, with various stakeholders weighing in on the proposal and other potential changes to Ghana's constitution. The outcome of the debate will ultimately depend on the decisions of Ghana's lawmakers and the will of the Ghanaian people.
Key points
- Former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor supports a proposal to extend the presidential term from four to five years.
- The proposal aims to give governments more time to implement policies and deliver development projects.
- The constitutional review debate is ongoing, with various stakeholders discussing the proposal and its potential implications.
