Two Members of Parliament have initiated a Private Members’ bill to amend Article 94 of the 1992 Constitution to put an age limit to the qualification to contest for a Member of Parliament.
The two lawmakers want a maximum age requirement of 65 to be adopted to ensure persons above that age are not permitted to contest any parliamentary seat in the country.
In a draft submitted to the Clerk to Parliament on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the duo said while the Constitution provides age 21 as the minimum age requirement for one to qualify to contest a seat, it does not specify same for the maximum age limit.
In view of the fact that the lack of maximum age limit requirement ensures broad democratic participation, evolving governance demands, democratic shifts among others, the MPs say the eligibility standards need to to be reviewed to ensure alignment with contemporary national needs.
According to Ohene Kwame Frimpong, the MP for Asante Akyem North, and Ibrahimah Mohammed Zuwera of the Salaga South constituency, the rationale for the proposed bill is to enhance legislative efficiency and capacity.
“Parliamentary duties require sustained physical stamina ,cognitive agility and responsiveness to complex policy challenges including digital transformation, climate change and global economic integration,” it stated.
As part of their justification, they explained that a reasonable maximum age threshold would;
- Promote sustained performance in legislative duties
- Reduce risks associated with age-related incapacity
- Encourage structured leadership transition within Parliament
They also intimate that the proposal aligns with international best practices in institutional capacity building.
You can access the full proposal here.
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