Koforidua: President John Dramani Mahama has revealed an ambitious plan to reform Ghana's public sector pay system through the establishment of an Independent Emoluments Commission, alongside modernising the country's labour laws. Speaking at the 2026 May Day celebration in Koforidua, Mahama elaborated on the proposed changes, which aim to create a more equitable and transparent salary structure across the public sector, from the highest offices to the lowest-paid government workers.
According to Ghana Web, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission has already commenced preparatory work on this initiative. The President emphasized that the Independent Commission would ensure that public sector salaries are aligned with market conditions, aiming to reduce strikes and worker uncertainty. He stated, "The Independent Commission will provide a fairer, more transparent salary structure that ensures that public sector salaries align with market realities."
In addition to the pay overhaul, President Mahama announced intentions to leverage the ongoing constitutional review process to target Article 71, which governs the remuneration of certain senior public officeholders and has been a point of contention for organized labour.
The President also discussed the impending completion of a new labour bill designed to reflect modern work trends, such as remote work, gig employment, and digital labour platforms. The legislation promises to secure fair contracts, pensions, and clearly defined rights for all workers, regardless of their sector or location.
Further, President Mahama highlighted the 24-hour economy policy as a cornerstone of the government's job creation strategy. This policy will provide tax incentives and reduced electricity costs to companies operating multiple shifts, particularly in the manufacturing sector. He added that the finance minister would soon present a comprehensive economic strategy to Cabinet and Parliament, which includes investing one percent of Ghana's GDP annually into high job-creation sectors.
Mahama concluded by noting that recent macroeconomic improvements should be seen as a foundation for broader development rather than an endpoint. These improvements include declining inflation, a more stable cedi, lower interest rates, and renewed investor confidence.