Government of Ghana Halts All State Land Transactions to Safeguard Public Assets.

In a decisive move to protect Ghana’s public resources, the government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, has announced an immediate halt to all transactions involving the sale, lease, or processing of state and public lands. The directive, dated January 10, 2025, was issued through a letter signed by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President.

The directive instructs the Lands Commission to suspend all ongoing transactions related to state lands and to submit a detailed report on all recent and pending transactions within 14 days. This measure underscores the administration’s commitment to safeguarding public lands for the benefit of current and future generations.

The suspension is part of President Mahama’s broader plan to reclaim state properties that may have been improperly acquired. During the 2024 election campaign, Mahama pledged to recover public assets and establish a task force to investigate all state land transactions. This bold action marks the beginning of efforts to deliver on that promise.

In December 2024, the President assured Ghanaians that the wealth of the nation would be returned to its rightful owners—the people. Speaking at a campaign rally in Accra, Mahama declared:
“Any public lands that have been misappropriated will be retrieved and put back in the hands of the state. Public resources must serve the collective interest, not personal gain.”

The misuse of public lands has been a contentious issue in recent years, with allegations of improper allocations during the Akufo-Addo administration. Critics claimed that portions of state lands were sold or leased to private individuals, including close associates of top officials, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Prominent voices like North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa condemned these practices, describing them as unacceptable. Political science lecturer Professor Ransford Gyampo also weighed in, emphasizing the need for public lands to serve collective interests rather than individual enrichment. He called the misuse of state resources a betrayal of public trust.

reflects its resolve to address these long-standing issues. By suspending all transactions and mandating a report from the Lands Commission, the Mahama administration aims to pave the way for a comprehensive review of past dealings. This review is expected to identify any improper acquisitions and outline steps for reclaiming such properties.

The directive has been widely welcomed by citizens and stakeholders, who view it as a significant step towards restoring public trust and ensuring transparency in the management of national resources.

President Mahama’s administration has positioned itself as one committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and good governance. This latest move to safeguard public lands signals a broader strategy to protect Ghana’s resources and promote equitable development.

As the Lands Commission prepares its report, the government’s actions will be closely monitored by citizens eager to see concrete results. This suspension is not only a response to past mismanagement but also a strong statement about the administration’s priorities.

The halt on state land transactions demonstrates a renewed focus on accountability and fairness in managing Ghana’s resources. With public support and a clear mandate, the Mahama administration’s efforts to reclaim and protect public lands could set a new standard for governance in the country.

Observers will be keenly watching the outcomes of the Lands Commission’s report and subsequent actions, as they represent a critical test of the government’s resolve to act in the public interest.