The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has expressed his opposition to a proposal to amend the Ghanaian constitution to extend the presidential term to five years. He believes that extending the term could have serious consequences, especially if a government performs poorly. Speaking at the 2026 edition of the Asogli Teza in Ho, Togbe Afede XIV stated that Ghanaians would have to endure the repercussions of a poorly performing government for a longer period if the term is extended.
The Asogli Teza, which took place in Ho, served as a platform to showcase the cultural heritage of the people of Asogli and other traditional communities in Ghana and the West African subregion. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Chief of Staff, Dr Julius Debrah, and the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ayariga. The 2026 Asogli Teza was themed “United in Purpose, Investing in People and Infrastructure for Sustainable National Development.”
Togbe Afede XIV also shared his views on recent happenings in the country, including the government’s efforts in fighting corruption. He commended the government for its efforts to combat corruption, particularly the establishment of the Office of the Registrar of Assets and Liabilities (ORAL) and the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO). He also welcomed the new Public Tribunals Acts, aimed at ensuring the expeditious prosecution of corrupt persons.
The Chief of Staff, Dr Julius Debrah, emphasized the government’s efforts to improve the living standards of its citizens through development. He highlighted ongoing projects in the Volta Region, including the reconstruction of the Anyirawase-Ho-Titrinu road and the rehabilitation of the Ho-Kpetoe road. Dr Debrah stated that the government sees the Volta Region as an important centre for production, tourism, and trade.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ayariga, announced ongoing reforms aimed at further strengthening the chieftaincy institution and curbing succession conflicts. These reforms are expected to promote stability and development in traditional areas. The minister’s announcement was well-received by traditional leaders and community members.
Togbe Afede XIV has been a vocal advocate for good governance and development in Ghana. He has previously spoken out on various issues, including financial barriers to access to justice and the risk of political manipulation in Supreme Court appointments. His views on the proposed 5-year presidential term are expected to contribute to the ongoing debate on constitutional reforms in Ghana.
The debate on the proposed 5-year presidential term is ongoing in Ghana, with various stakeholders weighing in on the issue. While some argue that an extended term would allow for more effective governance and development, others believe that it could lead to abuse of power and poor governance. The government has not yet announced its position on the proposal.
Key points
- Togbe Afede XIV opposes the proposed 5-year presidential term due to concerns about poor governance.
- The government is working to improve living standards through development projects in the Volta Region.
- Ongoing reforms aim to strengthen the chieftaincy institution and curb succession conflicts.
