Minority MPs demand reversal of Mahama’s ban on State land transactions.

The Minority caucus in Parliament is demanding the immediate reversal of President John Mahama’s directive to the Lands Commission to halt all processing of State lands.

Barely a week after assuming the reins of power, the President ordered the immediate cessation of all activities related to the sale, lease, or processing of transactions involving State and public lands.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 15, the Member of Parliament for Subin, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, acknowledged the President’s intention to safeguard public lands but stressed that the sweeping nature of the directive could harm legitimate landholders and stall economic activity.

“Although the President’s decision may aim at safeguarding public lands, these directives may also affect individuals and corporate entities who may have legitimately acquired interests in these lands,” the Minority said.

They further argued that if the government genuinely believes the private sector is the engine of growth, then such a ban undermines its own economic principles.

“The government, as a matter of urgency, should lift the ban,” the statement urged.

The MPs also expressed concern about potential revenue losses to the state, noting that the Lands Commission generates significant income through stamp duties, consent fees, and lease preparations, all of which contribute to the Consolidated Fund.
“A continued halt will adversely impact the Consolidated Fund,” they warned.

However, Haruna Iddrisu argued that President Mahama’s directive aimed at persons looting state lands.