The Minority in Parliament has extended warm Independence Day greetings to Ghanaians both at home and abroad as the country celebrates its 69th anniversary of independence, calling for renewed dedication to justice, prosperity, and national unity.

In a statement commemorating the occasion, the caucus paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women who fought for Ghana’s freedom, noting that their vision was grounded in dignity, fairness, and lasting prosperity for all citizens.

The Minority also acknowledged the contributions of farmers, workers, market women, chiefs, youth, and freedom fighters whose collective efforts paved the way for independence and helped shape the modern Ghanaian state.

“Independence is not merely a historical milestone; it is an ongoing national responsibility,” the statement said, urging every generation to recommit to building a stronger and more equitable nation.

Youth employment concerns

The caucus expressed deep concern about the employment situation facing Ghana’s youth, describing the country’s young population as its most valuable national asset. It criticised the mass termination of public-sector workers following the assumption of office by the current administration in January 2025.

According to the Minority, a committee set up 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, Social Security and National Insurance Trust, and the University of Energy and Natural Resources.

The statement indicated that 1,539 appointments were validated as properly made, while 541 were recommended for revocation due to procedural irregularities.

The Minority argued that the findings suggest many workers were dismissed without sufficient justification and called for the immediate reinstatement of those whose appointments were validated. It also demanded the payment of withheld salaries and compensation for affected employees.

Farmers’ challenges

The caucus also highlighted the difficulties faced by farmers across the country, pointing to unsold rice stocks, declining cashew prices, and post-harvest losses affecting crops such as yams and peppers.

According to the Minority, many rice farmers in northern Ghana are struggling to sell their produce due to competition from imported rice and weaknesses in government procurement systems. The group described the situation as a policy failure and called for urgent intervention.

On cashew production, the Minority criticised the reduction in the minimum producer price for raw cashew nuts from GH₵15 to GH₵12 per kilogram, arguing that the move has worsened financial pressures on farmers.

The statement further drew attention to post-harvest losses caused by inadequate storage facilities, poor road networks, and the lack of agro-processing infrastructure, urging greater investment to address these challenges.

Concerns about cocoa farmers

The Minority also raised concerns about the welfare of cocoa farmers, describing them as central to the country’s economic history and development.

The group criticised the government over a reported reduction in the farmgate price of cocoa, warning that the decision could deepen the financial difficulties faced by farmers and affect their ability to support their families, including paying school fees.

Illegal mining and environmental protection

Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, was highlighted as a major national concern. The Minority described the activity as both a national security threat and an environmental emergency due to 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 responsible for importing the machines.

It further urged the government to publicly destroy the equipment to demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources.

Economic transformation and security

The Minority stressed the need for a transformation of the Ghanaian economy to reduce dependence on exporting raw commodities while importing finished goods.

It called for policies that support industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, and investment in education, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and digital innovation.

The caucus also raised concerns about reported attacks on Ghanaian fishing vessels within the country’s territorial waters and urged authorities to strengthen maritime security and present Parliament with a comprehensive report on the incidents.

Support for Ghanaians abroad

The Minority 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 called on 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 the statement, the Minority urged all citizens to recommit to the founding ideals of the Republic, including responsible governance, national unity, and the protection of Ghana’s sovereignty.

The caucus reaffirmed its role in Parliament as a defender of constitutional governance, the rule of law, and accountability, pledging to continue holding the government to account while advocating policies that promote a just and prosperous Ghana.