President Mahama Halts Rotational Independence Day Celebrations, Cites Cost Concerns
President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Ghana’s rotational national Independence Day celebrations, citing the financial burden it places on the country’s budget. The upcoming 68th Independence Day event will now be held at Jubilee House instead of a regional capital.
Announcing the decision at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Jubilee Lounge of Kotoka International Airport, Minister of State in charge of Communications and Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu explained that the move aims to cut excessive government spending.
“In recent years, the celebrations have been rotated among regional capitals, which, while well-intentioned, have proven costly. President Mahama has, therefore, decided to suspend this policy to scale down on expenditure,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.
He disclosed that the last Independence Day celebration, held in Ho, Volta Region, cost the state approximately GH₵15 million an amount the government now deems unsustainable. While acknowledging the importance of commemorating Ghana’s independence, he emphasized the need to prioritize cost reduction.
As a result, the 68th Independence Day celebration will take place at Jubilee House, marking a shift from the previous Nana Akufo-Addo administration’s approach of hosting the event in various regional capitals.
