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The People’s National Party (PNP) has accused President John Dramani Mahama of violating Ghana’s Affirmative Action Law by failing to ensure the legally mandated 30% representation of women in government appointments.
In a statement issued by its Chairperson and Leader, Janet Asana Nabla, the PNP described the President’s actions as a “grave constitutional violation” against Ghanaian women and a betrayal of his campaign promise to implement gender-balanced appointments.
The PNP cited Article 17(4) of Ghana’s Constitution, which mandates Parliament to enact laws to address imbalances in representation. In line with this provision, the Affirmative Action Act was passed on July 30, 2024, requiring all governments to ensure that at least 30% of appointments—including ministers, deputy ministers, cabinet members, MMDCEs, CEOs, board members, and ambassadors—are women.
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Despite this legal requirement, the party claimed that President Mahama’s current administration has significantly under-represented women in leadership positions. The PNP outlined the following statistics on the President’s appointments:
- Ministers: 16% women, 84% men
- Deputy Ministers: 14% women, 86% men
- Cabinet Ministers: 10% women, 90% men
The party argued that these figures reflect a “blatant disregard for gender equality and the law,” calling for immediate corrective action.
Beyond the legal implications, the PNP also appealed to Ghana’s religious leaders to take a stand in defence of women’s rights. The statement urged both Christian and Muslim leaders to use their platforms to demand compliance with the Affirmative Action Law.
Referring to biblical and Quranic teachings, Nabla highlighted how both Jesus Christ and Prophet Muhammad advocated for gender justice and the protection of women. She criticised the silence of religious institutions, stating that while women form over 70% of church congregations, their voices are being ignored in matters of governance.
“Religion is about justice,” the statement emphasised. “If religious leaders cannot defend the rights of women on earth, how can they lead people to heaven?”
The PNP has called on President Mahama to immediately restructure his appointments to ensure compliance with the 30% representation rule. The party insisted that failure to do so would embolden future violations of the law and deepen gender inequality in the country.
“This is not just a political issue; it is a moral, legal, and religious duty,” Nabla stated, urging all stakeholders to take urgent action to rectify the alleged injustice.
The controversy has reignited discussions on gender representation in governance, with various advocacy groups expected to weigh in on the matter. Whether the President will respond to the PNP’s demands remains to be seen.
Read full press release here: PETITION TO RELIGIOUS LEADER;DEMAND JUSTICE FOR GHANAIAN WOMEN
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