Calls to abolish Council of State are insufficient - Prof H.K Prempeh

Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh chairs the Constitution Review Committee. He believes calls to abolish the Council of State need more thought. These calls should include alternatives for reform.

On JoyNews' Newsfile, he noted many submissions want to scrap the Council. Critics cite its ineffectiveness, lack of transparency, and limited influence on national decisions.

However, Prof. Prempeh argues that simply abolishing it isn’t enough. He believes we must consider reforms to improve its effectiveness.

He stated, "It is not sufficient to call for abolition just because it isn't working."

Prof. Prempeh suggested that structural flaws may hinder the Council's impact. Issues include opaque operations and excessive presidential influence through appointments. He proposed reviewing its composition and making operations more transparent.

He also suggested strengthening its role by making advice binding in certain areas. The Committee aims for long-term improvements and welcomes ideas to enhance the Council’s function.

“The argument should focus on redesigning it,” he said, “to serve its intended purpose.”

“Our task is not just to identify problems,” he added, “but to find solutions.” Instead of choosing between abolishing or retaining it, he prefers a middle ground: retain but modify.