President Mahama swears in Charlotte Osei
On Thursday, January 30, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama formally swore in the members of the newly created Constitutional Review Committee at the Jubilee House in Accra. One notable appointee was Charlotte Osei, the former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC). Osei had been dismissed from her position in 2018 during former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, following allegations of misconduct. Her removal triggered a wide range of debates and discussions throughout Ghana at the time.
During the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama humorously referred to Osei as his “dismissed Electoral Commissioner,” lightly acknowledging her controversial past. Nevertheless, her return to a prominent public position has attracted considerable attention, given the circumstances surrounding her earlier dismissal.
The newly established Constitutional Review Committee is tasked with examining Ghana’s Constitution to identify any potential weaknesses and suggest necessary reforms. The committee will engage with a variety of stakeholders, including legal experts, politicians, and civil society organizations, to ensure that any proposed changes reflect the country’s evolving needs.
The committee will be chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). The full list of members includes:
1. Justice Sophia Adinyirah
2. Professor Kwame Karikari
3. Mrs. Charlotte Osei
4. Dr. Godwin Djokoto
5. Ibrahim Tanko Amidu
6. Dr. Esi Ansah
7. Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya (Secretary)
During the ceremony, President Mahama expressed his firm belief in the committee’s capacity to strengthen Ghana’s democratic framework. He underscored the importance of ensuring that the Constitution remains flexible and capable of adapting to the nation’s changing demands. The committee has been given a five-month timeline to submit its recommendations, which could lead to meaningful constitutional reforms. Charlotte Osei’s inclusion on the committee is seen as beneficial, considering her vast experience as the former EC Chairperson.
Source: Facebook / Citi FM
