4 MPs sponsor bill to allow dual citizens hold public office

A group of four Members of Parliament is championing a Private Member’s Bill that could reshape Ghana’s political landscape by allowing dual citizens to hold public office, including seats in Parliament.

The bipartisan group, comprising Davis Ansah Opoku (Mpraeso), Kennedy Osei Nyarko (Akim Swedru), Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (Ellembele), and Governs Kwame Agbodza (Adaklu), is leading the charge to amend Article 94(2)(a) of the 1992 Constitution. 

The clause currently disqualifies any Ghanaian with allegiance to another country from becoming an MP.

The legislators argue that the ban is out of step with global realities and unfairly excludes patriotic Ghanaians living abroad who are willing and able to serve the nation.

Davis Ansah Opoku, speaking on behalf of the group, noted that the proposed amendment is about expanding access to leadership, not questioning loyalty.

The MPs believe that Ghana can adopt robust vetting frameworks, similar to other democracies, to safeguard national interests while still being inclusive.

In addition to amending the Constitution, the bill also calls for a review of parts of the Citizenship Act and other related statutes that limit political participation based on dual nationality.

If approved, the bill could open the door for a broader and more globally representative political class, sparking a new era of inclusivity and engagement for Ghanaians across the world.