A growing majority of Ghanaians are calling for the abolition of the Council of State, a constitutionally-mandated advisory body to the presidency, according to early findings from Ghana’s Constitutional Review Committee.

At a forum hosted by the Institute of Economic Affairs on Wednesday, Committee Chair Prof. Henry Kwasi Prempeh said nationwide consultations reveal broad public skepticism about the Council’s relevance. Ghanaians, he noted, increasingly view the body as a ceremonial institution lacking real influence, often sidelined by the executive branch.

“There is a widespread sentiment—even a surprise to me—that the Council of State serves little meaningful purpose,” Prof. Prempeh said. “Many believe its advice is routinely ignored, its mandate is ill-defined, and its membership—largely presidential appointees—undermines its independence.”

Established under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, the Council is intended to provide nonpartisan advice to the president. Yet critics argue its current structure mirrors the president’s cabinet and adds little value to governance.

Prof. Prempeh acknowledged that reform, rather than abolition, remains a possible path. “If a compelling purpose for the Council can be articulated, and if membership is restructured to ensure credibility and independence, there may be room to shift public opinion,” he said.

However, the Council itself is pushing back. At his February swearing-in as Chairman of the 31-member body, former Speaker of Parliament Edward Doe Adjaho dismissed criticism, promising a more active and responsive institution.

“We recognize the calls for abolition,” Adjaho said. “But this will be a Council of difference. Mr. President, you can count on us—day or night.”

As the Constitutional Review Committee continues its work, the future of the Council remains uncertain. The debate is likely to intensify as recommendations are finalized and public discourse gains momentum.

Source:TheDotNews