Ghana’s Parliament has passed the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025, granting the President the authority to move public holidays that fall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to the nearest Friday or the following Monday. The aim is to create long weekends, boost productivity, and enhance domestic tourism.
The bill, passed under a certificate of urgency, marks a significant shift in how Ghana manages its public holidays—introducing flexibility that mirrors global trends.
Other Major Changes to Ghana’s Holiday Calendar
Alongside the new rescheduling power, Parliament also approved several updates to the national holiday calendar:
Republic Day (July 1) has been reinstated as a statutory public holiday. Founders’ Day, previously observed on August 4, will now be celebrated on September 21, aligning with Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day. August 4 has been removed as a holiday. A new Islamic holiday, Shaqq Day, will be introduced and observed on the day after Eid-ul-Fitr.
Political Debate and Public Response
The fast-tracked passage drew mixed reactions in Parliament. While Majority MPs hailed it as a practical reform, some in the Minority expressed concern that the process overlooked more pressing national issues.
Despite the debate, the bill received majority support and now awaits Presidential assent to take effect.
At a Glance:
Midweek holidays can be shifted to Friday July 1 reinstated as Republic Day Founders’ Day now marked on September 21 August 4 removed Shaqq Day added, observed after Eid-ul-Fitr