Ghana backs five-year presidential term, up from four, age cut to 35

Ghana's government has endorsed a constitutional review committee's proposal to extend the presidential term from four to five years and to lengthen members of parliament's terms to match, while setting the minimum age for presidential candidates at 35 (down from 40). Justice Minister Dominic Ayine announced the acceptance of these changes after the committee submitted its final report to President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday. The panel argued that a four-year presidency leaves a government with just over two years of effective rule, as the first six months are spent on appointments and the final year dominated by electioneering; a five-year term would give administrations more time to implement programmes and strengthen democratic accountability. The amendments will only take effect if they pass a national referendum scheduled for 2027, which must meet the constitution's voter-turnout and approval thresholds. For West Africa, Ghana's move could influence debates on term limits and democratic consolidation in the region, especially as Nigeria and other neighbours watch how constitutional reforms are pursued through popular vote.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/31/ghana-govt-approves-proposal-to-extend-presidential-tenure/