Minority Calls For Urgent Lift Of Ban On State Land Transactions Imposed By President Mahama
The Minority caucus in Parliament has called on the President to immediately lift the ban on the sale of public lands, warning the country may suffer a litany of judgement debts should this embargo continue.
President Mahama ordered the immediate cessation of all activities related to the sale, lease, or processing of transactions involving State and public lands after assuming office.
Member of Parliament for Subin, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, reading a statement on the floor of Parliament on Monday, July 14, acknowledged the good intentions behind the directive but explained that the halt could affect legitimate landholders and corporate institutions.
“Although the directive by the President to halt all state transaction may have been issued with good intention, it may pose serious challenges. This directive deprives the private investor, both individuals and corporate bodies to use their legally acquired lands to secure loans from the bank,” he stated.
The Minority also argued that government must reverse its directive that if the government genuinely believes the private sector is the engine of growth.
“If care is not taken the state may be saddled with a lot of court actions and judgement debt,” he added.
Mr. Kofi Obiri Yeboah's colleague, MP for Weija Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, added his voice to the issue, emphasizing that landguards have taken over many public lands.
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.