The Minority in Parliament has extended warm greetings to Ghanaians at home and abroad as the nation commemorates its 69th Independence Anniversary, while urging renewed commitment to the ideals of justice, prosperity, and national unity.
In a statement to mark the occasion, the caucus paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the men and women who fought for Ghana’s independence, describing their vision as one rooted in dignity, fairness and enduring prosperity for all citizens.
The Minority honoured the contributions of farmers, workers, market women, chiefs, youth and freedom fighters whose collective struggle made independence possible, noting that their efforts laid the foundations of the modern Ghanaian state.
“Independence is not a historical event; it is a living national responsibility,” the statement said, adding that each generation must renew its commitment to building a stronger and fairer nation.
Youth employment concerns
The caucus expressed concern about the employment situation facing Ghana’s youth, describing the country’s young population as its most valuable national resource. It criticised the mass termination of public-sector workers after the current administration assumed office in January 2025.
According to the Minority, findings from a committee established by the Chief of Staff reviewed 2,080 employment cases across 36 public institutions, including the Electricity Company of Ghana, Ghana Highway Authority, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, National Health Insurance Authority, Metro Mass Transit, SSNIT and the University of Energy and Natural Resources.
The statement said the committee cleared 1,539 appointments as properly made, while 541 were recommended for revocation due to procedural issues.
The Minority argued that the findings show many workers were dismissed without proper justification and called for the immediate reinstatement of validated employees, payment of withheld salaries and compensation for affected workers.
Farmers’ challenges
The caucus also raised concerns about the difficulties faced by farmers across the country, citing unsold rice stocks, falling cashew prices and post-harvest losses affecting crops such as yam and pepper.
It said many rice farmers in northern Ghana are struggling to sell their produce due to competition from imported rice and weaknesses in state procurement systems. The Minority described the situation as a policy failure and called for urgent intervention.
On cashew production, the group criticised the reduction in the minimum producer price for raw cashew nuts from GH₲15 to GH₲12 per kilogram, arguing that the decision has worsened financial pressures on farmers.
The statement also highlighted post-harvest losses caused by inadequate storage facilities, poor road networks and the absence of agro-processing infrastructure, calling for greater investment in these areas.
Concerns about cocoa farmers
The Minority further expressed concern about the welfare of cocoa farmers, describing them as central to Ghana’s economic history and development.
It criticised the government over a reported reduction in the farmgate price of cocoa, warning that the decision could worsen the financial hardship faced by farmers and affect their ability to meet family obligations such as school fees.
Illegal mining and environmental protection
Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, was also highlighted as a major national challenge. The Minority described the activity as a national security threat and an environmental emergency, citing the destruction of rivers, forests and farmlands.
While welcoming the reported seizure of about 1,070 excavators at Tema Port believed to be destined for illegal mining operations, the caucus called for a full investigation into those behind the importation.
It also urged the government to publicly destroy the machines to demonstrate its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
Economic transformation and security
The Minority emphasised the need for economic transformation to reduce Ghana’s dependence on exporting raw commodities while importing finished goods.
It called for policies that promote industrialisation, agricultural modernisation and investment in education, particularly in science, technology, engineering and digital innovation.
The group also raised concerns about reported attacks on Ghanaian fishing vessels in the country’s territorial waters and urged the government to strengthen maritime security and provide Parliament with a full report on the incidents.
Support for Ghanaians abroad
The caucus extended solidarity to Ghanaians living and working in the Gulf region, many of whom face uncertainty due to ongoing conflicts in parts of the Middle East.
It urged the government to ensure that diplomatic missions provide adequate consular support and assistance to citizens who may require help or evacuation.
Renewing the promise of independence
Concluding its statement, the Minority called on all Ghanaians to renew their commitment to the founding ideals of the Republic, including responsible governance, unity, and the defense of national sovereignty.
It reaffirmed its role in Parliament as a defender of constitutionalism, the rule of law, and accountability, pledging to continue holding the government to account while advocating for a just and prosperous Ghana.
