The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged Ghanaians to uphold the principles of the 1992 Constitution, particularly in the digital space, as the country commemorates this year’s National Constitution Day.

In a press statement signed by the Chairperson of the Commission, Kathleen Addy, the NCCE said the day marks “the anniversary of the promulgation and coming into force of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, which ushered in the Fourth Republic.”

The Commission noted that the commemoration offers an opportunity for citizens to reflect on “Ghana’s constitutional democracy, the supremacy of the 1992 Constitution, and the enduring values of freedom, justice, accountability, and the rule of law upon which the nation is founded.”

This year’s celebration is being observed under the theme “Upholding Our Constitution in a Digital Age: Our Collective Responsibility.” According to the NCCE, the theme highlights the growing influence of digital technologies on democratic governance, civic participation, and national discourse, especially as Ghana embarks on a constitutional review process.

The Commission acknowledged that the digital space has enhanced access to information and expanded avenues for citizen engagement. However, it noted that it has also introduced challenges, including the spread of misinformation and disinformation, abuse of freedoms, intolerance, and other practices that threaten constitutional values and social cohesion.

The NCCE said activities marking the day will focus on constitutional education and proposed reforms to the 1992 Constitution. It commended the Constitution Review Committee for the work done so far and urged citizens to actively engage in the process.

The Commission called on all Ghanaians to participate actively and take a keen interest in the upcoming processes that will lead to a revised version of the Constitution.

It also urged the Executive and the other arms of government to play their respective roles to ensure the success of the review exercise, stressing the need for extensive public education.

The NCCE emphasised that government must place strong emphasis on public education to ensure that citizens fully understand the proposals and content of the draft review.

Reaffirming the authority of the Constitution, the Commission stressed that the 1992 Constitution remains the supreme law of the land, binding on all persons and authorities, and that its principles must guide conduct in both physical and digital spaces.

It further noted that respect for fundamental human rights, the responsible exercise of freedoms, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for democratic institutions are obligations that extend to online interactions and digital communication.

The Commission appealed to citizens, public office holders, civil society organisations, the media, and digital content creators to promote responsible online behaviour.

It called on all citizens to demonstrate patriotism and civic responsibility by promoting truth, tolerance, peaceful dialogue, and respect for constitutional order in the digital environment.

As part of Constitution Day activities, the NCCE announced plans to intensify nationwide civic education programmes through community engagements, educational institutions, traditional authorities, and both traditional and digital media platforms to deepen public understanding of constitutional rights and responsibilities.

The statement also encouraged young people and active users of digital platforms to serve as ambassadors of constitutional and democratic values by using technology to strengthen democracy, foster national unity, and contribute positively to Ghana’s development.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to its mandate, stating that it remains steadfast in its constitutional responsibility to educate and sensitise the citizenry on their rights and responsibilities, and to nurture a culture of democracy for sustainable national progress.