Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has declared his support for a proposal to extend Ghana’s presidential term from four years to five years, arguing that the additional time could help governments implement policies and development programmes more effectively.
Kufuor’s position adds to the ongoing national debate over proposed constitutional reforms and whether Ghana should retain its existing four-year presidential term or adopt a five-year cycle.
The former president’s argument is that four years can be too short for governments to fulfil their development promises, particularly when the final year of an administration is often dominated by preparations for the next general election.
According to the position attributed to him, a five-year term would give an elected government more time to concentrate on governance, implement its policies and assess the results of its programmes before returning to the electorate.
Kufuor, who served as president from 2001 to 2009, is drawing on his experience in government to support the proposed change. His tenure covered two consecutive four-year terms under Ghana’s current constitutional arrangement.
The proposal has generated discussion about how the length of a presidential term affects governance, political accountability and national development. Supporters of a longer term argue that it could provide greater continuity for major projects, especially those requiring several years to complete.
However, any extension would also raise questions about the balance between allowing governments sufficient time to deliver on their promises and ensuring that elected leaders remain accountable to voters at regular intervals.
Ghana’s current constitutional framework provides for a four-year presidential term, with a president limited to two terms in office. A move to a five-year term would therefore require the appropriate constitutional amendment process rather than a unilateral decision by a political leader.
Kufuor has reportedly acknowledged that his position may not be shared by everyone within his political tradition, including members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). His stance illustrates that constitutional reform proposals can generate differing views even among people associated with the same political party.
The debate over the presidential term is part of broader discussions about improving the country’s governance arrangements and ensuring that constitutional provisions support effective administration while protecting democratic principles.
Those in favour of a longer term may point to the time required to plan and execute infrastructure projects, introduce policy changes and measure their impact. Others may focus on the importance of maintaining frequent opportunities for voters to evaluate the performance of elected governments.
The outcome of the debate will depend on the constitutional reform process and the decisions of the relevant institutions. Until any amendment is formally approved and implemented, Ghana’s four-year presidential term remains in place.
Kufuor’s position has consequently renewed attention on whether a five-year presidential cycle could offer a different approach to governance and development planning in Ghana.
Source: Thepressradio.com
