Let’s make Constitution review successful — NCCE

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has called on the Executive and the other arms of government to play their respective roles actively and promptly to make the Constitution Review process a success. 

It has also urged the government to place heavy emphasis on public education, so that all citizens understand the proposal and content of the draft review.  

Constitution Day

This was contained in a statement to mark Constitution Day yesterday and signed by its chairperson, Kathleen Addy.

The National Constitution Day provides an opportunity for the country to reflect on Ghana’s constitutional democracy, the supremacy of the 1992 Constitution and the enduring values of freedom, justice, accountability, and the rule of law upon which the nation is founded.

This year’s Constitution Day is on the theme, “Upholding Our Constitution in a Digital Age: Our Collective Responsibility.” 

Online platforms

The statement said the theme emphasised the impact of digital technologies and online platforms on democratic governance, civic participation and national discourse, especially as the country undertakes a constitutional review process.

“The digital space has enhanced access to information and expanded avenues for citizen engagement; however, it has also introduced challenges, including the spread of misinformation/disinformation, abuse of freedoms, intolerance and abuses that threaten constitutional values and social cohesion.

“Civic engagements this year will focus on constitutional education and its proposed reforms,” it said.

The statement urged young citizens and active users of digital platforms to serve as ambassadors of constitutional and democratic values by using technology to strengthen democracy, foster national unity and contribute positively to Ghana’s development. 

CRC

It commended the Constitution Review Committee on the work done so far in relation to proposals for amendments, the review and the recommendations of the 1992 Constitution.

It called on the citizenry to actively participate and take a keen interest in the upcoming processes that would give birth to a new version of the 1992 Constitution.  

The statement noted that the 1992 Constitution of Ghana remained the supreme law of the land, binding on all persons and authorities.

“Its principles must guide conduct in both physical and digital spaces. Respect for fundamental human rights, responsible exercise of freedoms, adherence to the rule of law and respect for democratic institutions are obligations that extend to online interactions and digital communication,” it said.

In commemorating this day, the commission called on all citizens, public office holders, civil society organisations, the media and digital content creators to demonstrate patriotism and civic responsibility by promoting truth, tolerance, peaceful dialogue and respect for constitutional order in the digital environment. 

Public education

The NCCE pledged to intensify nationwide civic education programmes through community engagements, educational institutions, traditional and digital media platforms, and stakeholder collaborations to deepen public understanding of constitutional rights, duties, and responsible digital citizenship. 

“The NCCE remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate to educate and sensitise the citizenry to their rights and responsibilities and to nurture a culture of democracy for sustainable national progress,” it said.