Constitutional Review Committee Proposes Five-year Presidential Term, Lowers Eligibility Age From 40 to 30

The Constitutional Review Committee has recommended a major restructuring of Ghana’s presidential system, proposing a single five-year term for the President and a reduction in the minimum age for presidential candidates from 40 to 30 years.

According to the Committee’s report, the proposed five-year term is intended to strengthen governance and reduce the pressures associated with re-election.

“The Committee recommends a single five-year term for the President to promote continuity, accountability and long-term national planning,” the report states.

On eligibility, the Committee also proposes an amendment to Article 62 of the 1992 Constitution to widen access to the presidency by lowering the age requirement.

“The minimum age qualification for a person to be elected President shall be reduced from forty years to thirty years,” the report recommends.

The Committee argues that the change reflects demographic realities and recognises the increasing role of younger citizens in national leadership and democratic participation.

“Lowering the age threshold will allow competent and capable younger citizens to contribute meaningfully to national leadership,” the report notes.

The proposed amendments form part of a broader constitutional reform process intended to modernise Ghana’s governance framework and align it with contemporary democratic principles.

The recommendations are expected to be considered by government and Parliament as part of the next phase of the constitutional review process, which may include stakeholder consultations and a possible referendum.