A cross-section of Ghanaians have expressed mixed reactions to a proposal by the Constitutional Review Committee, to extend the presidential term of office from four to five years.
The proposal has triggered a nationwide debate, with opinions sharply divided between the need for development continuity and the importance of electoral accountability.
Supporters of the proposal argue that a longer tenure would give governments adequate time to implement and complete large-scale infrastructure and policy reforms, while critics insist that the existing four-year term remaind a critical mechanism for holding leaders accountable.
Ms Rachel Owusu, a graduate of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC–IJ), told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that four years was often insufficient for meaningful national transformation.
“Over the years, it has been evident that four years is not enough for sitting governments to complete the projects they initiate. Giving them more time will also strengthen accountability, as leaders would have fewer excuses when called upon to account for their performances,” she said.
Mr Samuel Addo, a supporter of the proposal, said extending the term could bring economic benefits by reducing the frequency and cost of national elections.
He noted that resources spent on elections every four years could be redirected into critical sectors such as health, education and infrastructure development.
Some respondents also expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendment, warning that a longer term could entrench poor leadership.
Mrs Abigail Darley Bortey, a trader, described a five-year term under a non-performing government as burdensome for citizens, likening it to an extended sentence with limited relief.
“In four years, the people can assess performance and decide whether a government deserves another mandate. Five years is too long if things are going wrong,” she said.
Mr Kingsley Junior Apeke also opposed the proposal, citing political tradition and internal party dynamics as potential obstacles.
“Even within political parties, many members aspire to lead. Ghanaians are used to the four-year cycle, and extending it by an additional year for one president may be seen as unfair,” he noted.
Mr Desmond Oti, a civil servant, said the four-year term allowed voters to correct mistakes more quickly, especially when a government failed to meet expectations.
Providing a technical perspective, political analyst Mr Baaja Hudu Ahmed told the GNA, that while a five-year term could improve policy implementation and continuity, it would require strong, independent institutions to prevent abuse of power.
He emphasised that without effective checks and balances, a longer tenure could weaken democratic accountability.
The Constitutional Review Committee’s recommendations, submitted to President John Dramani Mahama in late 2025, are expected to be subjected to either a national referendum or parliamentary debate later this year.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Christabel Addo
07 Jan. 2026
