The People’s National Party (PNP) has accused President John Dramani Mahama of a serious constitutional violation over his recent ministerial appointments, claiming they fail to uphold gender equality mandates.
In a petition addressed to key religious organizations—including the Christian Council, Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, Catholic Bishops, and the Muslim community—the PNP criticized the president for disregarding constitutional and legislative requirements on gender balance in governance.
The party argues that President Mahama’s appointments violate Article 17(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates Parliament to enact laws promoting gender balance in public office.
Furthermore, they cite the Affirmative Action Act of 2024, which requires a minimum 30% representation of women in government appointments, including ministerial and deputy ministerial positions.
However, the PNP claims that the president has failed to meet this threshold, stating that his recent appointments overwhelmingly favor men.
“During his campaign, President Mahama explicitly promised to implement the Affirmative Action Law (AAL) and ensure 30% female representation in all his appointments. However, upon assuming office, he has reneged on this promise, thereby violating both his campaign pledge and Article 17(4) of the Constitution,” the PNP stated in its February 24 petition.
The party is calling on religious leaders to publicly challenge Mahama’s appointment decisions and demand compliance with Ghana’s legal frameworks on gender equality.
The PNP insists that religious institutions, which have long championed justice, must not remain silent on this issue.
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