President John Dramani Mahama has taken a decisive step to protect state and public lands by instructing the Lands Commission to immediately halt all ongoing leases or sales of such lands. The directive, communicated in a letter signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Benjamin Arthur, was dated Friday, 10 January 2025.
The letter emphasized the importance of safeguarding state lands for the benefit of Ghanaian citizens and future generations. It stated that all ongoing and pending transactions must be stopped without delay to allow for a comprehensive review of the current framework governing the management of state lands.
Furthermore, the presidency directed Benjamin Arthur to submit a detailed report on all transactions involving state lands within 14 days. This move is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of state lands.
In a related development, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, revealed that the team successfully thwarted an attempted encroachment on state land by a private developer. Ablakwa disclosed on social media that the team responded to a distress call from staff of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Gender, Children, and Social Protection regarding an attempted demolition of their bungalow located behind the State House in Accra.
The developer, who had allegedly sent thugs to the location, claimed to have purchased the land last year. However, the President’s National Security Committee intervened and prevented the land capture attempt from being successful.
This proactive approach by President Mahama and his administration demonstrates their commitment to protecting state lands from illegal encroachment and ensuring that they are used for the benefit of the people of Ghana. The decision to review ongoing transactions and enhance oversight of state lands reflects a strong stance against corruption and mismanagement in land administration.
It is imperative for all stakeholders to support these efforts and work together to preserve Ghana’s valuable land resources for current and future generations. By upholding the rule of law and promoting good governance in land management, the government can help to secure the country’s sustainable development and prosperity.
