Human rights activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor has made a compelling case for removing legal protections that shield Presidents from prosecution after their tenure, sparking a broader conversation on justice and accountability in governance.
In an interview with JoyNews on Saturday, January 25, Barker-Vormawor stressed the importance of ensuring that no individual, regardless of position, is placed above the law.
“The Constitution cannot preach justice while entrenching impunity. We have also argued that Presidents should not be shielded from prosecution after their tenure,” Barker-Vormawor asserted. His remarks come amidst growing calls for constitutional reforms to promote transparency and hold public officials accountable for their actions, even after they leave office.
Barker-Vormawor’s critique challenges the existing constitutional provision that grants former Presidents immunity from prosecution. According to him, such provisions not only undermine the principles of justice but also perpetuate a culture of impunity that contradicts the democratic ideals the Constitution is meant to uphold. By calling for an end to these legal protections, he advocates for a governance system that holds all leaders accountable, irrespective of their past positions of power.
In addition to his call for the removal of post-tenure immunity for Presidents, Barker-Vormawor also questioned the relevance of the Council of State, describing it as an unnecessary institution that adds little value to governance. “The abolishment of the Council of State is what we have called for. We believe that if we move forward without it, nobody would even remember it exists,” he argued.
The Council of State, an advisory body to the President, has long been a subject of debate regarding its role and effectiveness in shaping national policies. Critics like Barker-Vormawor contend that the council’s functions could easily be absorbed by existing government institutions, rendering its existence redundant. He believes that abolishing the Council of State would not only streamline governance but also save resources that could be redirected to other critical areas.
Barker-Vormawor’s stance on these issues reflects a broader push for constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening democratic accountability and transparency in Ghana. His comments highlight the need for an open dialogue on how the nation’s governance structures can be improved to better serve its citizens. By addressing the gaps in the Constitution, he believes Ghana can create a political system that prioritises justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
The activist’s call for reforms resonates with a significant portion of the Ghanaian public, many of whom have expressed dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of accountability among political leaders. The notion that former Presidents are immune from prosecution has often been criticised as a loophole that allows leaders to evade responsibility for potential misconduct while in office.
Barker-Vormawor’s proposal aligns with international best practices in governance, where transparency and accountability are regarded as pillars of a functioning democracy. Many democratic nations have implemented measures to ensure that former leaders can be held accountable for their actions, thereby reinforcing public trust in governance and deterring misconduct.
His remarks also underscore the importance of public participation in constitutional reforms. By engaging citizens in the reform process, Ghana can ensure that any changes to its governance structures reflect the will of the people and address their concerns about justice and accountability.
The conversation initiated by Barker-Vormawor goes beyond mere criticism of existing structures; it challenges Ghanaians to envision a governance system that is more transparent, inclusive, and just. His advocacy for the abolishment of the Council of State and the removal of post-tenure immunity for Presidents invites a critical examination of how these measures could contribute to a more equitable society.
As debates around constitutional reforms gain momentum, it is essential for stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society organizations, and the general public, to engage constructively in shaping the future of governance in Ghana. Barker-Vormawor’s proposals serve as a reminder that the pursuit of justice and accountability is a shared responsibility that requires collective effort and commitment.
In calling for these reforms, Barker-Vormawor has reignited discussions on the role of the Constitution in promoting good governance and protecting the rights of citizens. His emphasis on justice and accountability reflects a growing demand for a political system that not only upholds democratic principles but also ensures that those entrusted with public office are held to the highest standards of integrity.
The activist’s remarks come at a time when many Ghanaians are reflecting on the effectiveness of the nation’s governance structures. His proposals challenge both leaders and citizens to consider how reforms can be implemented to build a more just and accountable society.
Barker-Vormawor’s advocacy is a call to action for all Ghanaians to participate actively in shaping the nation’s future. By addressing the issues he has raised, the country can take significant steps toward creating a governance system that truly serves the interests of its people.
As the debate on constitutional reforms continues, it is crucial for the government to consider the perspectives of activists like Barker-Vormawor, whose insights offer valuable contributions to the discourse on justice and accountability. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and taking decisive action, Ghana can build a governance system that embodies the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
Barker-Vormawor’s vision for a reformed governance system is a bold and necessary step toward addressing the challenges that have long plagued the nation’s political landscape. His call for justice, accountability, and the abolition of outdated institutions serves as a reminder of the need for continuous reflection and adaptation in the pursuit of good governance.
In conclusion, Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s proposals for constitutional reforms represent a significant contribution to the ongoing debate about the future of governance in Ghana. His call to remove post-tenure immunity for Presidents and abolish the Council of State underscores the importance of justice, accountability, and transparency in building a stronger, more inclusive democracy. As Ghanaians consider these proposals, they are presented with an opportunity to reimagine a governance system that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of its people.
