Parliament of Ghana approves the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill

On June 25, 2025, Parliament of Ghana approved the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing key changes to Ghana’s holiday calendar.

Factcenta highlights the most important facts of the news below:

• Parliament has passed the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

• July 1 is restored as Republic Day, recognizing Ghana’s transition to a republic in 1960.

• A new Muslim holiday called Shaqq Day will be observed the day after Eid-ul-Fitr, allowing extended celebration.

• August 4 Founders’ Day is repealed; September 21 is reinstated as Founder’s Day to honor Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

• The bill allows the President to move midweek public holidays (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) to the preceding Friday or following Monday to boost productivity.

• The bill was declared passed by First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor.

• The new holiday framework is expected to spark discussions on national identity, religious inclusivity, and historical remembrance.