Ghana has finalized plans to extend its presidential term from four to five years and lower the minimum age for presidential candidates to 35, following recommendations from a constitutional review committee established by President John Dramani Mahama.

Justice Minister Dominic Ayine said the government has accepted the recommendation to extend the presidential term, along with a corresponding increase in lawmakers’ tenure to avoid gaps during election periods. Although the review committee recommended lowering the minimum candidate age to 30, the government opted for 35 instead. The committee found that a four year presidential term often leaves an administration with just over two years of effective governing time once transition and election periods are accounted for, arguing that a longer term would strengthen democratic accountability by giving governments more time to deliver results. The changes will require approval through a national referendum in 2027, subject to strict voter turnout and approval thresholds.