Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has urged members of the Council of State to execute their mandate in a manner that dispels the perception that they exist solely to validate predetermined decisions.
Speaking as the guest speaker at the orientation event for the newly sworn-in Council of State, she emphasized that President John Mahama’s vision of resetting Ghana can only be realized if the Council provides truthful and independent guidance.
According to her, Ghana stands at a pivotal moment in its governance structure and citizens are increasingly demanding a paradigm shift. She charged the Council to redefine its role, offer bold solutions and demand accountability in governance.
“Your tenure must redefine the Council’s role, transforming it from its perceived passive advisory body into an active institution” she stated.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang encouraged the Council to contribute to government policies from their inception and ensure that major policy choices are carefully crafted to benefit all Ghanaians in the long run.
She also called for a review of the 1992 Constitution asserting that, it must evolve to meet the demands of Ghana’s maturing democracy.
“We must move beyond the idea of a constitution as merely a blueprint for power sharing.
It must instead become a framework for development, one that prioritizes economic transformation, institutional efficiency, and the collective aspirations of all Ghanaians.”
Highlighting the significance of including young people in the Council of State, the Vice President described it as a positive evolution, proving that governance thrives on a blend of experience and fresh perspectives.
This diversity she noted, should help deepen national discourse and strengthen the advisory process for the betterment of Ghana’s democracy.
“A democracy that truly serves its people must reflect its diversity, ensuring that voices across generations, professions and backgrounds find space in decision-making.”
She concluded by urging the Council to ensure that their advice reflects the lived experiences of all Ghanaians, reinforcing the principle that every voice matters in shaping the nation’s destiny.
For his part, Chairman of the Council of State, Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho, called on members to put aside personal inclinations and focus on the collective interests of the nation. He emphasized the importance of using their prestige and visibility to guide the President and other state institutions in fostering a better Ghana.
“We must ensure we speak truth to those we advise, for that is the surest way our performance can benefit Ghanaians as a whole” he stated.
He further encouraged Council members to collaborate in fulfilling their mandate, ensuring that their efforts prioritize the needs of ordinary Ghanaians rather than just the political elite.
The orientation will look at topics such as The Mandate of the Council of State, Modus Operandi of the council, responsibility of the council’s secretariat among others.
