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The Ministry of the Interior has announced that Tuesday, January 7, 2025, will be observed as a statutory public holiday in Ghana to celebrate Constitution Day. The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, on January 2, 2025.
Constitution Day marks the enactment of the 1992 Constitution, which came into force on January 7, 1993, following its approval in a national referendum on April 28, 1992. The day symbolizes Ghana’s commitment to constitutional governance, democracy, and the rule of law. First observed in 2019, it replaced Republic Day (July 1) as a statutory holiday under the amended Public Holidays Act, 2001 (Act 601).
The Fourth Republic, established under this Constitution, is the longest in Ghana’s history, lasting over 27 years without interruption—a milestone compared to the earlier republics, which were disrupted by military coups. January 7 is also significant as the inauguration day for Ghana’s Heads of State in election years.
The 1992 Constitution serves as the foundational document outlining the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the government and the rights and duties of citizens. It has guided Ghana’s democratic journey and sustained political stability since its adoption.
Prominent Leaders of the Fourth Republic
Prominent leaders who have served under the Fourth Republic include:
- Jerry John Rawlings (NDC): Served from 1993 to 2001.
- John Agyekum Kufuor (NPP): Held office from 2001 to 2009.
- John Evans Atta Mills (NDC): Served from 2009 until his death in 2012.
- John Dramani Mahama (NDC): Served from 2012 to 2017.
- Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (NPP): Sworn in on January 7, 2017, and ended his tenure on January 7, 2024.
The introduction of Constitution Day received bipartisan support, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) acknowledging its importance despite reservations about other holidays like Founders’ Day (August 4) and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day (September 21).
The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has encouraged citizens to reflect on the values enshrined in the Constitution, emphasizing its daily application to build a resilient Republic.
