The Member of Parliament for Guan, Fred Agbenyo, has asserted that commemorating Republic Day on July 1, while observing the public holiday on Friday, July 4 this year, does not constitute a "waste of productive time" but rather creates an opportunity for the business sector to generate income.

Speaking on Metro TV’s 'Good Morning Ghana' on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, and monitored by GhanaWeb, the MP argued that dedicating even an hour to national prayer and thanksgiving on July 1 is a positive initiative on the one hand and observing the holiday on Friday another good step in the right direction.

Agbenyo explained that this arrangement does not disrupt productivity but rather creates opportunities for revenue generation.

He explained that holidays, especially when strategically placed near weekends, attract foreign visitors who spend money in the country, thereby boosting local businesses.

“When the holiday falls on a weekend, foreigners come in and spend their hard-earned money. That money goes directly into our local economy—into hotels, restaurants, transport, and beach resorts. So how is that a loss?” he stated.

He further emphasised the benefits to the tourism and hospitality sectors, noting that beach resorts and similar establishments record increased patronage during weekend holidays.

He contended that these economic gains far outweigh any claims of reduced national output.

Fred Agbenyo’s comments come in response to concerns raised by other political figures who argue that separating the commemorative day from the actual holiday negatively impacts national productivity.

July 1 was historically a statutory public holiday marking Ghana's attainment of Republican status in 1960.

However, recent amendments to the Public Holidays Act have reclassified it as a commemorative day, with the actual public holiday observance sometimes shifting based on the calendar.

MRA/VPO

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