The New Patriotic Party has rejected the proposed five-year presidential term, insisting that Ghana should retain the existing four-year mandate for elected governments.
The party argues that regular presidential elections are an important democratic check, giving voters the chance to review a government’s performance without waiting an additional year.
Gushegu Member of Parliament Hassan Tampuli announced the party’s position at a press conference on Thursday, September 17, 2026.
“We have taken a different position from the position of government and the CRC. We do not support the extension, and we support the retention of the existing four years.” - Mr Tampuli
NPP prioritises voter accountability
The Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, recommended extending the tenure of the President from four years to five years. Parliament would receive a corresponding five-year term.
The committee submitted its final report to President John Dramani Mahama in December 2025. Government accepted the tenure proposal in July 2026, arguing that four years gave administrations too little room to develop, execute and assess major policies.
Mr Tampuli said the better response was to improve the speed and efficiency of government business.
“Challenges relating to policy implementation, transition and the formation of government should be addressed through greater efficiency and timely decision-making, rather than by extension.” - Mr Tampuli
Proposal yet to become law
The NPP maintains that adding another year would reduce the frequency with which political leaders answer directly to voters.
“Extending the term weakens the principle of regular accountability,” Mr Tampuli said.
The five-year proposal remains only a recommendation. It has not altered the current constitutional tenure.
Any attempt to change the presidential term must pass through Ghana’s constitutional amendment process, including the specific procedures governing entrenched provisions.
The NPP’s rejection places one of the committee’s most prominent proposals at the centre of a fresh political contest.
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