"SEPERATION OF POWERS:KEEP MPS OUT OF MINISTERIAL POST"

Prominent figures across Ghana’s political and civil society landscape are calling for constitutional reforms to prevent Members of Parliament (MPs) from being appointed as ministers. The critics argue that combining legislative and executive responsibilities undermines the principle of separation of powers and weakens parliamentary oversight.

Sam Okudzeto of the Council of State criticized the practice, warning that MPs serving as ministers cannot objectively hold the executive accountable. "You can't supervise a system you are part of," he argued.

Former Speaker of Parliament Prof. Mike Oquaye echoed these concerns, saying that Article 78(1) of the Constitution—which mandates that most ministers be selected from Parliament—has eroded the effectiveness of the legislature.

Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin also suggested a constitutional review, stating that ministerial appointments distract MPs from their core legislative duties.

Legal practitioner Martin Kpebu went further, claiming the current system fosters corruption, as some MPs use their ministerial roles to gain access to state contracts and financial kickbacks.

Adding to the voices for reform, GIMPA Rector Prof. Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson argued that the dual responsibilities of MPs who double as ministers hinder national development due to divided attention.

These growing calls reflect a national push to revise Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and reinforce the independence and accountability of both Parliament and the executive branch.