Political analyst Dr Samuel Boateng has suggested that while the move by certain Members of Parliament to introduce a private member’s bill capping the age of MPs at 65 may offer some benefits, it is not currently a priority for the Ghanaian people.
Addressing these developments on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Nyankonton Mu Nsem, Dr Boateng noted that while the Constitution specifies the minimum age for parliamentary eligibility, it does not establish a maximum limit.
He further explained that although laws should evolve to reflect the changing dynamics of society, not every proposed amendment addresses an urgent public need.
The proposal in question was submitted on 10 March 2026 by two MPs, Ohene Kwame Frimpong and Hajia Ibrahimah Mohammed Zuwera.
Their Private Member’s Bill seeks to amend Article 94 of the 1992 Constitution, arguing that a 65-year age limit would modernise legislative standards, ensure officials possess the necessary physical stamina for governance, and facilitate smoother leadership transitions.
Responding to these justifications, Dr Boateng remarked that “laws exist for the benefit of humanity, and as we progress, amendments are necessary to meet new dynamics.
However, the question we must ask is whether this private member’s bill is a priority for Ghanaians. I do not think so; I do not believe this is a priority for Ghanaians at this moment. Article 94 stipulates the requirements for those who wish to enter Parliament. The minimum age requirement is 21 years and above, so if we believe a cap is necessary, we could have adopted the standard retirement age for all state officials. That would have been a more appropriate way of addressing this.”
He cautioned that such a measure could be perceived as an infringement on fundamental rights. He maintained that age is not a definitive indicator of parliamentary effectiveness, noting that “what we also need to understand is that it is not the age of an individual that determines their ability to be elected as a good MP. We can elect young MPs who perform exceptionally well, just as we may have older members who do not, and vice versa. Age will not necessarily determine the performance of an MP. Members are elected by their constituents to represent their interests regardless of their age, and it remains the responsibility of each MP to distinguish themselves.”
Dr Boateng reiterated that while the proposal represents a valid legislative step, it remains secondary to more pressing national concerns.
He warned that if such an agenda succeeds without careful consideration, it could set a precedent for using arbitrary criteria to restrict citizens from seeking parliamentary office in the future.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
