President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to reinstate Republic Day as a national holiday and to introduce an additional public holiday for Eid al-Fitr.
Speaking during his thank-you tour in the Western Region on February 5, 2025, he stated that his administration would amend the Public Holidays Act to restore July 1 as a national holiday. This day, which marks Ghana’s transition to self-governance, was removed from the list of public holidays in 2019 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Additionally, President Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to the Muslim community by promising to officially recognize Eid al-Fitr with an extra public holiday. He emphasized that this amendment would be prioritized as soon as Parliament reconvenes, allowing Muslims to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with two days of festivities.
Furthermore, he proposed the establishment of a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving to be observed on July 1, alongside Senior Citizens’ Day. This initiative aims to serve as a time for national reflection and seeking divine guidance for Ghana’s progress.
These initiatives are part of President Mahama’s broader agenda to honor promises made during his election campaign and to acknowledge the contributions of various communities to national development.
