Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to introduce paternity leave for married men as part of his campaign promises.
Speaking at the launch of the NDC Women’s Manifesto at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, Mahama highlighted the importance of supporting families during childbirth.
The manifesto focuses on empowering women in Ghana by addressing critical issues such as access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Mahama outlined his commitment to amend labor laws to provide married men with one week of paternity leave, while also proposing to extend maternity leave from three months to four months.
“This paternity leave will allow married men to support their wives during the crucial time of childbirth,” Mahama stated. He added that to qualify for this leave, married men must provide evidence of the child’s birth certificate that includes both their names, ensuring that the policy is utilized appropriately.
“Paternity leave will not be for sidekicks,” he emphasized, reinforcing the intent behind the policy.