President John Mahama has announced plans to add a new description to July 1 on the country’s calendar of notable days.
He announced this during his Thank You Tour to the Western Region on February 5.
He said in addition to restoring the public holiday status of the day, it will be known as National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.
Addressing chiefs, residents and supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Western Region, President Mahama said “July 1 will be observed as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, allowing Ghanaians to reflect and express appreciation for the nation’s progress.”
He explained that “We will have the opportunity as a nation soon to pray and give thanks to the Almighty God, as enjoined by the Holy Book that says, ‘In all things, give thanks.”
July 1, which marks the commemoration of Ghana’s Republican status attained in 1960, was observed as a holiday until President Akufo-Addo changed it during his tenure. Already, the day is celebrated as Senior Citizens Day.
In respect of restoring July 1 as public holiday, the President said amendments to the Public Holidays Act will soon be presented to Parliament.
“We will soon present to Parliament amendments to the Public Holidays Act in order that we can restore July 1 as a holiday,” he assured.
