Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has advocated for the reformation of the Council of State, asserting that restructuring this body could enhance transparency and elevate the standards of public appointments within the nation.
Mr. Kufuor recognized that the council comprises eminent individuals; however, he pointed out that its activities are frequently conducted in secrecy.
He noted that due to the council’s discussions typically being held in private, the public may remain unaware when significant advice provided to the president is disregarded.
Consequently, the former president suggested the establishment of what he termed a “house of wisdom and experience,” which would consist of respected figures selected from essential national institutions.
“I would prefer to have a second house as I am advocating, formed by institutions such as traditional authorities, the house of chiefs, religious organizations, trade unions, academia, and individuals who have held public service roles like the Former Chief Justice, Former IGP, Former CDS, individuals who have served with honor and have retired,” he remarked.
In an interview, Mr. Kufuor proposed that this body should include between 50 and 60 members, tasked with evaluating individuals nominated for significant public positions to ensure that appointments are merit-based.
“When they successfully pass their vetting within such a body, publicly, then this house should function transparently; I believe we will achieve a far superior quality than what we have experienced thus far,” he expressed.
He emphasized that the suggested chamber would operate impartially and remain non-partisan, while also helping to mitigate the excesses of democracy and assist in national decision-making.
“To the advice, the house will also engage in discussions on all public matters. Their aim is not to undermine democracy, no. The house of democracy is the legislature, but as I mentioned, to temper the excesses of democracy,” he concluded.
