The People’s National Party (PNP) has raised concerns over what it describes as a grave constitutional violation by President John Dramani Mahama. In a petition addressed to major religious bodies, including the Christian Council, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, the Catholic Bishops, and the Muslim community, the PNP accused President Mahama of disregarding constitutional mandates on gender equality in governance. PNP argued that President Mahama’s recent appointments show a blatant disregard for Article 17(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates Parliament to enact laws promoting gender balance in public office. Additionally, the party cites the Affirmative Action Act of 2024, which requires all government sectors to ensure a 30% minimum representation of women in appointments, including ministerial and deputy ministerial positions.

However, according to the PNP, the President’s recent appointments have overwhelmingly favoured men, with women comprising only a fraction of key government positions:

“During his campaign, President Mahama explicitly promised to implement the Affirmative Action Law (AAL) and ensure that women receive 30% 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.