Veteran Ghanaian statesman Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has strongly opposed proposals to extend Ghana’s presidential term, insisting that the existing two four-year terms are sufficient for effective governance.
In a statement released this week regarding the ongoing constitutional review, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe argued that “four years is adequate time for a serious and prepared government to make its mark,” adding that “arguments suggesting a need for additional time only create unnecessary opportunities for inefficiency and corruption.”
The former diplomat stressed that while continuity in governance is important, it should not be used as justification for lengthening presidential tenure. “Unfinished national projects must be continued by successive governments. The practice of abandoning ongoing projects in order to initiate new ones has become a major source of waste and corruption,” he said.
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe also called for a review of provisions that grant excessive immunity and lifelong benefits to public office holders. “The Constitution contains numerous clauses that effectively shield the President during and even after his tenure in office. These protections make it nearly impossible to hold a President fully accountable under the law. This situation is no longer tenable in a mature democracy,” he noted. He further added that “the system of ex gratia payments and excessive post-office benefits for public office holders must be abolished,” urging that these resources be redirected to improve the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
On the structure of government, he supported reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, including appointing ministers strictly from outside Parliament to ensure a clear separation between the Executive and Legislature. “Parliament must be empowered to independently scrutinise government actions without conflict of interest,” he said.
Addressing leadership qualifications, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasised that the presidency requires maturity and experience. “The minimum age requirement for presidential candidates should be reviewed upward to reflect the seriousness and responsibility of the office,” he said.
The statesman concluded by calling on all stakeholders to approach the constitutional review process with integrity and a focus on national interest. “Constitutional reform must not be driven by partisan interests but by the collective good of the nation,” he urged, highlighting the need for accountability, discipline, and responsible governance.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe’s statement comes ahead of the expected release of the full report of the Constitution Review Committee, which is scheduled for January 2026.