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The Government of Ghana has officially announced the observance of Constitution Day 2025, scheduled for January 7, in a statement signed by the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Constitution Day is a pivotal moment in Ghana’s calendar, celebrating the enactment of the 1992 Constitution and the establishment of the Fourth Republic. First commemorated in 2019, the day underscores Ghana’s unwavering commitment to constitutionalism, democracy, and the rule of law.
The 1992 Constitution, which took effect on January 7, 1993, following its approval in a nationwide referendum on April 28, 1992, serves as the backbone of Ghana’s governance.
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It outlines the powers and duties of the government, the rights of citizens, and the principles underpinning the nation’s political framework.
In election years, January 7 also holds additional significance as the date on which Ghana’s presidents are sworn into office, symbolising the peaceful transfer of power and the continuity of governance.
The statutory observance of Constitution Day was formalised with an amendment to the Public Holidays Act, 2001 (Act 601), replacing July 1 (Republic Day) with January 7.
The change was met with widespread support from political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC), whose Deputy General Secretary, Peter Boamah Otokunor, lauded the idea as “not out of place.”
The Fourth Republic, established under the 1992 Constitution, stands as Ghana’s longest uninterrupted democratic era, spanning over 27 years. In contrast, the first three republics were marred by military coups that disrupted civilian rule.
Key leaders of the Fourth Republic include:
- Jerry John Rawlings (NDC): January 7, 1993–January 7, 2001
- John Agyekum Kufuor (NPP): January 7, 2001–January 7, 2009
- John Evans Atta Mills (NDC): January 7, 2009–July 24, 2012
- John Dramani Mahama (NDC): July 24, 2012–January 7, 2017
- Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (NPP): January 7, 2017–January 7, 2025
The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged citizens to commemorate the day by embracing the values enshrined in the Constitution. The NCCE emphasised, “The study and application of the provisions of the Constitution should be part of our daily lives.”
