News:
February 10, 2026
A significant constitutional amendment, which seeks to permit Ghanaians with dual citizenship to hold public office, has been formally scheduled for parliamentary consideration after previously lapsing.
The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Amendment) Bill, a private member’s bill originally sponsored by Kennedy Osei Nyarko, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, has been revived in the current Parliament. The bill had been under consideration by the 8th Parliament but elapsed before it could be passed.
In a decisive move, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has directed the Business Committee to programme the bill for the House’s consideration during this meeting. This instruction signals a renewed political effort to address a long-debated aspect of Ghana’s citizenship laws.
The legislation aims to alter portions of the 1992 Constitution that currently bar persons owing allegiance to another country from holding specific high-level public offices, including ministerial roles, membership in Parliament, and other key positions outlined in Article 94(2)(a).
The push for amendment has gained cross-party backing. Mr. Osei Nyarko is now joined by three co-sponsors: Kwame Agbodza (MP for Adaklu), Armah Kofi Buah (MP for Ellembele), and Davis A. Opoku (MP for Mpraeso). This collaborative sponsorship suggests the issue is attracting support beyond traditional party lines, framing it as a matter of national interest.
Proponents of the bill argue that the current restriction disenfranchises a vast, globally dispersed Ghanaian diaspora, depriving the nation of skills, expertise, and investment potential. They contend that amending the constitution would foster greater inclusion and leverage the talents of all Ghanaians, regardless of their dual nationality.
Opponents, however, have historically raised concerns about divided loyalties and national security, emphasizing the need for undivided allegiance from individuals in sensitive governmental positions.
The Speaker’s directive to programme the bill sets the stage for what is expected to be a robust and closely watched debate on the floor of Parliament. Its progression will be a key test of the current legislature’s appetite for constitutional reform and its stance on engaging the diaspora in national governance.
The Business Committee is expected to announce the specific date for the second reading and debate of the bill in the coming days.
Dominic Shirimori/Ghanamps.com