Constitutional Review Committee Proposes Ban on MPs as Ministers
The Constitutional Review Committee has recommended sweeping reforms to Ghana’s executive and legislative structures, including barring Members of Parliament from serving as ministers and placing a cap on the size of government.
The report recommends that Members of Parliament should no longer be appointed as ministers or deputy ministers in order to strengthen Parliament’s oversight role and reinforce the separation of powers.
“The Committee recommends that Members of Parliament should not be appointed as Ministers of State,” the report stated, explaining that the current practice weakens parliamentary accountability.
The Committee noted that combining legislative and executive roles “undermines Parliament’s capacity to effectively scrutinise the Executive.”
Also, the report proposes a firm cap on the number of ministers, including deputy ministers, to reduce the cost of governance and improve efficiency.
“The total number of Ministers of State, including Deputy Ministers, should not exceed fifty-seven,” the Committee recommended.
According to the report, limiting the size of government would “promote fiscal discipline and enhance administrative efficiency within the executive arm of government.”
On accountability, the Committee has also recommended changes to presidential immunity, particularly concerning criminal conduct committed in a personal capacity.
The report proposes that former presidents and vice presidents should be subject to criminal proceedings within a defined period after leaving office.
“The Committee recommends that criminal proceedings may be instituted against a former President or Vice President within four years after leaving office in respect of acts done in their personal capacity,” the report said.
The Committee explained that the proposal is aimed at balancing immunity with accountability, ensuring that public office does not become a shield for personal wrongdoing.
“These reforms seek to strengthen executive accountability while preserving the dignity of the presidency.”
