Council of State warns Parliament: reject dual citizenship amendment for now

The Council of State has formally advised Speaker Alban Bagbin and Parliament to reject the Constitution of Ghana (Amendment) Bill, which proposes removing restrictions preventing dual citizens from serving in public positions.

In a letter to the Speaker, the advisory body cautioned lawmakers against proceeding with the legislation, citing concerns about the implications of allowing individuals with dual nationality to occupy high state offices.

The bill, if passed, would amend Ghana's constitution to eliminate current barriers that prevent dual citizens from holding public office. Proponents have argued that the measure would open leadership opportunities to Ghanaians living abroad and attract diaspora talent to government.

The Council of State's intervention signals significant institutional resistance to the proposal at a critical stage in the legislative process. The body typically provides constitutional and legal guidance on major policy matters affecting national governance.

The matter remains contentious within Ghana's political and civil society circles, with stakeholders divided on whether dual citizenship provisions should be reformed or maintained as currently written.