The Ministry of the Interior has declared Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as a statutory public holiday to mark Constitution Day.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Constitution Day is a significant occasion in Ghana’s calendar, commemorating the coming into effect of the 1992 Constitution and the birth of the Fourth Republic. First observed in 2019, the holiday underscores Ghana’s commitment to the rule of law, constitutionalism, and democracy.
Historical context
The 1992 Constitution, which came into force on January 7, 1993, after being approved in a referendum on 28th April 1992, serves as the fundamental framework for Ghana’s political principles. It defines the structure, powers, and duties of the government, as well as the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
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January 7 also holds special significance in election years, as it is the day on which Ghana’s Heads of State are sworn into office.
The government solidified the observance of Constitution Day as a statutory public holiday when it amended the Public Holidays Act, 2001 (Act 601). This legislation replaced 1st July, formerly Republic Day, with Constitution Day as a commemorative day.
Broad support
The introduction of Constitution Day received widespread backing from political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC). At the time, the NDC’s Deputy General Secretary, Peter Boamah Otokunor, remarked, “It is not out of place to celebrate it as a public holiday.”
Although the party raised concerns about the designation of August 4 and September 21 as Founders’ Day and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, respectively, there was general consensus on the significance of marking Constitution Day.
Reflecting on Ghana’s Fourth Republic
The Fourth Republic, established under the 1992 Constitution, is the longest in Ghana’s history, having lasted over 27 years and counting. In comparison, the first three republics were interrupted by military coups that toppled civilian governments.
Prominent presidents of the Fourth Republic include:
– Jerry John Rawlings (NDC): Served from January 7, 1993, to January 7, 2001.
– John Agyekum Kufuor (NPP): Took office on January 7, 2001, and served two terms until January 7, 2009.
– John Evans Atta Mills (NDC): Elected in 2009 but passed away in office on July 24, 2012.
– John Dramani Mahama (NDC): Succeeded President Mills and served from 2012 to 2017.
– Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (NPP): Sworn in on January 7, 2017, and set to end his tenure in January 7, 2024.
Civic responsibility
Ghana’s National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has endorsed the observance of Constitution Day, encouraging citizens to embrace the principles enshrined in the Constitution. The NCCE has called on Ghanaians to “make the study and application of provisions of the Constitution part of our daily lives.”
As Constitution Day approaches, citizens are encouraged to reflect on how best to uphold the supreme law of the land and contribute to building a stronger Republic.
