President John Dramani Mahama has officially lifted the temporary ban on state and public land transactions, reopening the window for sales, leases, and processing of lands — but under stricter rules designed to eliminate corruption and abuse.
The ban, which took effect on January 10, 2025, was imposed to allow government to conduct a full review of Ghana’s land administration system.
That review, according to President Mahama, has exposed loopholes that enabled political elites and powerful individuals to unfairly benefit from state land allocations.
Speaking at the swearing-in of the newly constituted Lands Commission Board on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the President stressed that the lifting of the ban does not mean a return to “business as usual.”
“My government imposed a temporary ban on the sale of state lands to enable a thorough review of contracts. The exercise has revealed valuable insights into our current system and the reforms that are required,” President Mahama said.
He added, “The lifting of the ban does not signify a return to business as usual. It signals a new disciplined era of land management. We are embarking on a reset that prioritises transparency, fairness, and justice in land administration.”
The President’s directive had earlier sparked heated debate in Parliament. The NPP Minority caucus argued that the freeze negatively affected legitimate landholders and could disrupt economic activity.
Subin MP, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, described the order as “too sweeping,” claiming it punished law-abiding citizens along with political profiteers.
The administration, however, insists the new framework will prevent the reckless disposal of state lands and restore public trust in the Lands Commission.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
