The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) has renewed calls for broad national consensus and decisive action to implement long-delayed constitutional reforms, warning that Ghana’s democratic future depends on collective commitment to inclusive and accountable governance.
In a press statement issued to mark Constitution Day 2026, IDEG noted that Ghana is celebrating its 34th consecutive year as a stable democracy under the Fourth Republic, while also marking one year since President John Dramani Mahama was sworn into office and launched the government’s “Reset Agenda.”
According to IDEG, the past year has seen notable progress in stabilising the macroeconomic environment, rebuilding investor confidence, and initiating reforms aimed at strengthening governance systems.
The think tank said these efforts reflect a deliberate attempt by the government to rebuild public trust, enhance institutional accountability, and promote civic inclusion.
However, IDEG expressed concern that Ghana’s constitutional review process has remained stalled and inconclusive for more than a decade.
It pointed out that four successive government cycles between 2012 and 2025 failed to implement constitutional reforms, largely due to weak national consensus and the lack of a permanent, independent institutional framework to oversee and complete the process.
The organisation warned that the delays are occurring at a time of democratic regression in parts of West Africa, declining confidence in multiparty democracy, rising support for military rule, and increasing youth disenchantment with what is perceived as an unresponsive democratic system.
IDEG cautioned that these trends pose a threat to Ghana’s democratic consolidation and its standing as a democratic anchor in the sub-region.
Against this backdrop, IDEG described the submission of the Constitution Review Committee’s report as a critical opportunity to reset Ghana’s governance architecture.
The institute commended the Committee for its work and praised President Mahama for ensuring the immediate public release of the report.
“As we commemorate Constitution Day 2026, it is imperative that lessons from previous reform efforts guide a renewed national commitment to building broad consensus and implementing long-overdue constitutional reforms,” the statement said.
IDEG stressed that safeguarding Ghana’s democracy requires collective action rooted in good governance, inclusion, justice, and a rejection of divisive politics in favour of nation-building.
The institute echoed President Mahama’s New Year address, in which he noted that governments do not build nations alone, and urged citizens and leaders alike to focus on unity rather than conflict.
