Bagbin urges Niger to learn from Ghana’s constitutional review for democratic renewal

Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on the Republic of Niger to draw inspiration from Ghana’s ongoing constitutional review process as the Sahelian nation embarks on a renewed path towards political stability and institutional rebuilding.

Addressing the inauguration of the Conseil Consultatif de la Refondation du Niger (Consultative Council for Rebuilding Niger) over the weekend, Mr Bagbin highlighted the critical role of inclusive governance, dialogue, and civic participation in sustaining democracy.

He commended Niger’s efforts at national dialogue and encouraged its newly established consultative body to learn from Ghana’s reform experience.

“Ghana has always believed in the power of consultation, collaboration, dialogue, and consensus-building in governance,” he said.

Currently, under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Ghana is undertaking a review of the 1992 Constitution. I propose that the Consultative Council take an interest in the process underway in Ghana, possibly send observers to the sittings of the Constitutional Review Committee, and share experiences and opinions.”

Ghana’s constitutional review, spearheaded by President Mahama, is a far-reaching national effort to amend aspects of the 1992 Constitution to better reflect contemporary democratic needs.
The process focuses on reducing the over-centralisation of executive authority, enhancing institutional accountability, and increasing citizen participation in governance.

Mr Bagbin stressed the value of cross-country learning, particularly among African nations navigating post-crisis political transitions.

He said Ghana’s democratic journey, built through years of reform and public engagement, offers a model where enduring governance systems are developed not by imposition, but by grassroots consensus.

Referencing Niger’s own recent national dialogue, which led to the formation of the Consultative Council, he stated:

“This process exemplifies beautifully that national cohesion and democratic legitimacy are forged through unity of purpose and respect for diverse voices.”

The Speaker also acknowledged the shared regional challenges facing both countries, including youth unemployment, environmental threats, and regional insecurity.

“As neighbouring West African states, Ghana and Niger share common burdens. Our strength lies in unity and our willingness to learn from each other.”

Mr Bagbin’s remarks align with a broader diplomatic effort by Ghana, under President Mahama’s leadership, to foster peacebuilding, regional solidarity, and institutional renewal across the West African sub-region.

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