Minority in Parliament Marks Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary with Criticism of Government Policies

The Minority in Parliament has extended Independence Day greetings to Ghanaians while raising concerns about governance, youth employment, agricultural policy, and illegal mining in the country.

In a statement marking Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary, the Minority paid tribute to the men and women who fought for the country’s freedom and laid the foundation for the nation’s development.

The group acknowledged the sacrifices of farmers, workers, market women, chiefs, youth and freedom fighters whose collective efforts helped secure Ghana’s independence. It also honoured the country’s founding leaders whose vision transformed Ghana from colonial rule into a sovereign state.

According to the Minority, independence should not be viewed merely as a historical milestone but as a “continuing national responsibility” that requires every generation to uphold the ideals of justice, prosperity and dignity.

Youth Employment and Public Sector Dismissals

The Minority expressed concern about youth unemployment, describing Ghana’s young population as the country’s most valuable national resource.

However, it criticised the mass termination of public-sector workers following the change of government in January 2025, describing the move as one of the most regrettable decisions in recent governance.

According to the statement, the Minority opposed the dismissals from the beginning, arguing that the livelihoods of young Ghanaians should not be used as tools for partisan political disputes.

The group cited findings from a committee reportedly set up by the Chief of Staff to review the dismissals across 36 public institutions, including the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ghana Highway Authority, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Metro Mass Transit, SSNIT and the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR).

The committee reportedly examined 2,080 cases, clearing 1,539 appointments as properly made while recommending 541 for revocation on procedural grounds.

According to the Minority, these findings confirm that a significant number of workers were dismissed without legitimate grounds. It has therefore called for the immediate reinstatement of validated workers, payment of withheld salaries and compensation for affected individuals.

Farmers Facing Economic Challenges

The Minority also raised alarm over what it described as a growing crisis in the agricultural sector, particularly affecting rice, cashew and vegetable farmers.

Rice farmers, particularly in northern Ghana, are reportedly struggling to sell their produce following the 2024 harvest. The Minority attributed the situation to the influx of cheap imported rice and the breakdown of government procurement systems, which they say has left farmers with unsold stockpiles and mounting debts.

Cashew farmers were also highlighted in the statement, with the Minority criticising the reduction of the minimum producer price for raw cashew nuts from GH¢15.00 to GH¢12.00 per kilogram in December 2025.

According to the group, the price reduction has placed farmers at risk and allowed unlicensed middlemen to exploit the situation by paying below the regulated price.

The statement also cited high post-harvest losses affecting crops such as yam and pepper, particularly in parts of the Upper East Region where lack of storage, cold chain facilities and processing plants has led to significant waste.

The Minority called for emergency support funds for farmers, stronger enforcement of minimum pricing policies and increased investment in storage infrastructure, rural roads and agro-processing.

Concerns Over Cocoa Farmer Welfare

The Minority further criticised the government’s cocoa pricing policy, describing it as unfair to farmers who have historically played a central role in Ghana’s economic development.

According to the statement, the government’s decision to reduce the cocoa farmgate price by more than GH¢1,000 per bag has placed financial pressure on farmers, many of whom are reportedly struggling to support their families and pay school fees.

The group argued that cocoa farmers deserve policies that protect their livelihoods and recognise their historic contribution to the nation’s development.

Illegal Mining Described as National Emergency

The Minority also warned about the escalating impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, describing it as a national environmental and security emergency.

The statement noted that illegal mining activities have contaminated rivers, destroyed forest reserves and damaged fertile agricultural lands, threatening public health and food security.

Call for Responsible Governance

As Ghana marks 69 years of independence, the Minority said the anniversary should serve as a moment of reflection for leaders and citizens alike.

It urged the government to take urgent steps to address youth unemployment, support farmers, protect the environment and uphold policies that improve the livelihoods of ordinary Ghanaians.

The group pledged to continue using parliamentary and legal mechanisms to hold the government accountable and advocate for policies that promote fairness, economic stability and national development.