Constitutional Review Commission to be in Koforidua next week

Akwatia, Aug 26, GNA - The Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) would be in Koforidua on September two and three to hear the submissions of residents towards the review of the 1992 Constitution. The first day would be open to individuals from all walks of life, while the next day would be devoted to public organisations. This was made known by the leader of the five-member team from the CRC, Nana Otu Towrac, which toured six towns in the Kwaebibirem District to collate the views of the people.

The towns visited included Akwatia, Pramkese, Abodom, Nkwantanang, Apinamang and Takrowase. Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Nana Towrac, said the organizations were expected to contribute ideas to enhance constitutional rule in the country. He said district level consultations that started in April would end on September 30.

Nana Towrac said the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) and assembly members had been supportive with the organisation of the district consultations. He stated that every individual's view was vital and urged chiefs, assembly members and opinion leaders to mobilize their people to fully participate in the review exercise. Nana Towrac indicated that a rare opportunity was being given for citizens to be part of the government process, adding that, the current constitution had been operative since 1993 and it was being reviewed for the first time.

He observed that since it may take a long time before another review, "This is an opportunity for citizens to have a say in the laws that govern them and take part in the democratic process." At Akwatia, members had a public meeting and paid a courtesy call on the Akwatiahene, Osabarima Kofi Boateng III. The visit gave the chief the opportunity to express his views and he suggested the election of chief executives of local assemblies. He said the people should have the right to choose those who should govern them at the local level.

Nana Akwatiahene also called for a second chamber of Parliament, in which chiefs would be amply represented as they are barred from taking part in partisan politics.

The Akwatiahene's submission on the election of head of local assemblies was met with mixed reactions, as some felt the present arrangement should continue.

Others suggested that district level elections should be on partisan basis because it is common knowledge that political parties are sponsoring candidates.

Some participants were of the view that too much power was vested in the President and said a non-partisan committee should be set up to make appointments, especially, to public boards.