In a significant announcement, President John Mahama revealed plans to reinstate July 1 as a statutory public holiday in Ghana. This restoration will bring back the importance of July 1 as Republic Day and Senior Citizens Day, making it a time for national reflection and thanksgiving.
During his Thank You visit to the Western Region on Wednesday, February 5, President Mahama proposed that July 1 be observed as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. He emphasized that this day would serve as an opportunity for all Ghanaians to reflect on the nation’s progress and express gratitude for the blessings and successes the country has achieved. “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,’” Mahama shared.
To ensure the observance is carried out in an organized and meaningful way, President Mahama announced plans to form a committee made up of religious leaders. This committee will be responsible for overseeing the preparations for the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, ensuring it aligns with the spiritual and cultural values of the nation.
Additionally, President Mahama confirmed that amendments to the Public Holidays Act would soon be presented to Parliament. These amendments will restore July 1 as a statutory holiday, officially making it a day for national observance and reflection. “We will soon present to Parliament amendments to the Public Holidays Act in order that we can restore July 1 as a holiday,” Mahama affirmed.
As part of the amendments, President Mahama also mentioned that provisions would be made to fulfill a previous promise to the Muslim community. This will include an extra holiday to mark the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, which will be recognized as part of the public holiday calendar.
This announcement is set to have a lasting impact on the way Ghanaians celebrate their national identity, while also fostering a sense of unity and spiritual reflection. The official reinstatement of July 1 as a public holiday promises to reignite pride in Ghana’s history and its journey toward progress.
As Ghanaians eagerly await the legislative changes, the restored holiday is sure to be a new chapter in national celebrations, drawing the country together in prayer, thanksgiving, and unity. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development.