The Government of Ghana has officially declared Friday, January 9, 2026, as a public holiday to be observed nationwide. The announcement follows the statutory celebration of Constitution Day, which falls on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
The declaration was made by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana through an Executive Instrument (E.I.), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2001 (Act 601), as amended. The move is intended to allow citizens adequate time to observe the national occasion, given that Constitution Day occurs midweek.
A statement issued on January 2, 2026, and signed by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak (MP), confirmed that Friday, January 9, has been designated as the day for the public holiday instead of the original date.
According to the statement, the decision was taken to ensure nationwide participation and to enhance the significance of Constitution Day, which commemorates the coming into force of Ghana’s Fourth Republican Constitution in 1993.
The Constitution remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic governance, outlining the rights and responsibilities of citizens and the framework for state institutions.
“The President, acting by Executive Instrument and in accordance with the law, has designated Friday, January 9, 2026, as the day to be observed as a public holiday,” the statement noted.
The Ministry of the Interior urged the general public, institutions, and corporate bodies to take note of the declaration and observe the holiday accordingly throughout the country. Businesses, schools, and government offices are expected to comply with the directive unless otherwise exempted by law.
Public holidays in Ghana are often adjusted when they fall midweek to allow citizens to better participate in national observances and to minimize disruption to work schedules. The January 9 holiday is expected to create a long weekend for many workers, providing time for rest, reflection, and civic engagement.
Constitution Day is an important date on Ghana’s national calendar, marking the return to constitutional rule after years of military governance. It serves as a reminder of the country’s commitment to democracy, rule of law, and good governance.
With the announcement now official, Ghanaians across the country are expected to plan accordingly and fully observe the public holiday on Friday, January 9, 2026, as directed by the government.
