Ghana Politics News

The latest Ghana politics coverage in one place: government and parliament, elections, policy, and the people shaping national life, from Accra to the regions. Stories are curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

Alfred Sakyi elected Lay President of Methodist Church Ghana to take over from Attah-Antwi
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Bawumia Praises Adwoa Safo Amid NPP Dynamics and Calls for Government Accountability

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has publicly lauded Sarah Adwoa Safo, the daughter of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, for her resilience in managing her father's funeral amid intense family disputes. This endorsement comes at a pivotal time for the Dome-Kwabenya constituency, where current NPP parliamentary candidate Mike Oquaye Jnr has addressed rumors of Safo’s potential return to the race for the 2028 elections. While flyers suggesting her candidacy have circulated online, Oquaye Jnr emphasized the need for party consensus and stated he is awaiting direct confirmation from Safo herself. Safo has also shared that her father foresaw the legal and traditional battles currently splitting their family and church, describing the "Woman King" title given by Bawumia as a recognition of her strength during these trials. In the broader political and social sphere, the relationship between governance and the media has come under scrutiny. During the Ghana Journalists Association’s 77th anniversary, Minister of State for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu and veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr highlighted the essential role of ethical journalism in Ghana’s democracy. Pratt urged media practitioners to resist the digital-age pressure for sensationalism, arguing that the profession’s integrity depends on serving public needs rather than competing for social media attention. This call for professional standards is mirrored in the religious sector, where the Presiding Bishop of The Methodist Church Ghana, Most Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has challenged the government to deliver on its campaign promises, stating that voters expect tangible improvements rather than excuses based on the failures of previous administrations. Leadership transitions have also been observed across religious and military institutions. Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam was overwhelmingly re-elected as the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, securing nearly 90% of the vote. Similarly, the Methodist Church Ghana endorsed Alfred Sakyi as its new Lay President. In the security sector, Commodore Stephen Billings Nyam has officially taken command of the Western Naval Command, succeeding Commodore Samuel Ayelazono. Meanwhile, local traditional governance faced upheaval as the Wenchi Traditional Council indefinitely suspended Twafohene Nana Akora Tua Adutwum Kyeremeh Siasaa Kufour IV due to alleged breaches regarding land administration, signaling a crackdown on authority violations within traditional structures. On the international front, several significant events are shaping the global political landscape. Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu is set to face a treason trial for allegedly inciting election boycotts, while in North America, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney faces mounting pressure to secure favorable terms in a trade dispute with the United States. Additionally, the FBI is seeking to keep records secret regarding a drug-trafficking probe involving President Bola Tinubu. As these domestic and international narratives unfold, Regal Prophet Bismark Nana Boateng has issued a spiritual warning to Ghanaian parliamentarians, advising them to seek guidance to avert potential attacks and subsequent by-elections. These converging stories highlight a period of intense scrutiny, transition, and accountability for leaders across Ghana and beyond.

Energy Minister Dr. John Jinapor Unveils Grid Stability Roadmap and New PURC Headquarters Amid Climate Diplomacy Push
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Energy Minister Dr. John Jinapor Unveils Grid Stability Roadmap and New PURC Headquarters Amid Climate Diplomacy Push

Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has announced a definitive timeline for the restoration of the original power transmission arrangement at the Akosombo control station, targeting completion by next month. This move is intended to resolve recent nationwide system disturbances caused by a fragile temporary setup implemented after a previous fire incident. The Minister explained that while a temporary solution was necessary to avoid a total six-month shutdown of the Akosombo facility, the current arrangement has proven susceptible to transmission line trips. With four out of six critical components now restored, the Ministry expects the finalized repairs to significantly enhance the resilience of the national grid. Parallel to these infrastructure repairs, Dr. Jinapor inaugurated a new head office for the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) in Accra, marking a significant milestone in the commission’s 25-year evolution. The modern facility is equipped with specialized monitoring rooms and training areas designed to strengthen regulatory oversight across the electricity, water, and natural gas sectors. During the ceremony, the Minister emphasized that the PURC must look beyond mere tariff reviews to rigorously evaluate the commercial performance of utility providers, specifically the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), to ensure financial sustainability and improved service delivery for consumers. However, the government’s efforts face scrutiny from civil society. Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has asserted that the persistent power outages are a solvable technical challenge that requires better leadership prioritization rather than just engineering fixes. Speaking on the impact of the blackouts, Bentil highlighted the life-threatening risks posed to essential services, citing recent outages at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. He urged the administration to realign its spending priorities to ensure that reliable electricity—a cornerstone of both economic activity and public health—is maintained through consistent resource allocation to the nation’s engineers. On the international stage, Ghana is simultaneously bolstering its strategic position ahead of the COP31 climate summit in Türkiye. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has launched the National Roster of Experts on Climate Negotiations to institutionalize the country's negotiation capacity and secure greater access to international climate finance. This initiative aims to address existing challenges in developing bankable project proposals that meet stringent international standards. By unifying national positions and mobilizing diverse stakeholders, Ghana intends to advocate more effectively for developed nations to honor their funding commitments, ensuring that the country’s green transition remains financially viable and inclusive of its most vulnerable sectors.

Foreign Affairs Ministry warns Tijjaniya pilgrims against road travel, advises air travel to Senegal
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Ablakwa and Mubarak Lead Major Policy Shifts in Foreign Relations, National Security, and Humanitarian Support

In a series of decisive moves by the Mahama administration, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and the Interior have rolled out new measures to safeguard Ghanaian lives at home and abroad. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed a critical agreement with the Russian government to halt the illegal recruitment of Ghanaian youth into the Russia-Ukraine conflict, following reports of significant casualties among citizens. Simultaneously, Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak has issued a stern directive to the Ghana Police Service to dismantle all unauthorized vigilantism and self-defence groups, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to illegal security structures that threaten national stability. The situation regarding the Russia-Ukraine war has become a matter of urgent concern, with Minister Ablakwa revealing that up to 62 Ghanaians have died and 15 remain missing due to illicit recruitment efforts. Beyond addressing these tragedies, the Minister’s bilateral engagements with Russia have yielded positive diplomatic outcomes, including a pledge from Moscow to double scholarships for Ghanaian students and a commitment to cooperate on nuclear energy development and other global issues. These developments signify a push for stronger mutual benefits while prioritizing the protection of citizens from foreign military exploitation. On the domestic front, Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak has prioritized national peace by ordering a crackdown on vigilantism, particularly those groups formed by political parties, traditional authorities, and private individuals. Invoking the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), Mubarak warned that these groups pose a direct threat to the state’s authority and public safety. The Minister also raised alarms over the unauthorized sharing of security training materials on social media, directing police commanders to enforce stricter controls to preserve the professional integrity and tactical secrecy of Ghana's security forces. To support humanitarian and regional stability, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also provided essential logistical aid to the Ghana Refugee Board. Minister Ablakwa oversaw the donation of decommissioned passport-processing equipment—including printers, cameras, and lamination machines valued at GH"539,574—to bolster the Board’s operations following funding cuts from the UNHCR. This support coincides with a new travel advisory issued on August 21, 2026, urging Tijjaniya Muslim pilgrims to fly to Senegal instead of using road corridors, citing heightened security risks in West African overland routes. These combined efforts reflect the government’s multifaceted strategy to navigate regional instability while maintaining its historical commitment to service and security.

2027 Budget Statement must pivot around job creation, greater transparency - CSOs to government
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CSOs Demand Transparency and Job Creation as Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson Prepares 2027 Budget Statement

As the November presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy approaches, civil society organizations (CSOs) are intensifying calls for the government to prioritize job creation, revenue mobilization, and fiscal transparency. Led by the Economic Governance Platform and the Tax Justice Coalition, these groups have urged Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to leverage current macroeconomic stability to enhance public welfare. Key recommendations presented to the Ministry of Finance include closing tax loopholes, managing mineral revenues through a unified framework, and incentivizing contributions from the artisanal mining sector to curb illicit financial flows. Parallel to these fiscal demands, the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has raised alarms over a significant spike in financial irregularities within public institutions, which surged to GH¢20.49 billion according to the 2025 State of Corruption Report. To address these systemic vulnerabilities, CSOs are advocating for the immediate passage of the Conduct of Public Officers (CoPO) Bill. This legislation is seen as vital for strengthening asset declaration compliance and enhancing whistleblower protections. This push for accountability is echoed by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) as it celebrates its 15th anniversary. Government officials and stakeholders, including Prof. Francis Dodoo and Isaac Adongo, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Finance, are calling for PIAC’s mandate to be expanded beyond petroleum to include critical minerals and the global energy transition. Proponents argue that broadening this oversight and ensuring PIAC's financial independence are essential for translating natural resource wealth into sustainable developmental outcomes like infrastructure and permanent jobs. Regarding the implementation of flagship policies, Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy Augustus Goosie Tanoh has provided critical clarifications on the jurisdiction of the 24-Hour Economy Authority. Mr. Tanoh noted that while 262 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are currently operating 24-hour markets, these initiatives fall under the Ministry of Local Government and are funded via the District Assemblies Common Fund rather than the Authority itself. Despite this distinction, the 24-Hour Economy Authority has faced legal challenges over the market programs. Mr. Tanoh emphasized that the Authority's focus remains on enhancing supply-chain efficiency and infrastructure, such as cold storage, to support the broader national economic agenda. Governance reforms also remain a point of contention, particularly concerning local government autonomy and the protection of digital rights. The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) has formally expressed opposition to the government's proposal for the President to nominate candidates for District Chief Executives (DCEs), arguing that direct elections are necessary to ensure true democratic accountability. Meanwhile, the Data Protection Commission is ramping up its regulatory capacity, designating 2026 as the "Year of Enforcement." With the acquisition of new specialized vehicles, Deputy Minister of Communications Mohammed Adams Sukparu stated that the Commission will expand its regional presence to ensure stricter compliance with the Data Protection Act. Together, these developments highlight a complex political landscape where the Mahama administration must balance ambitious economic programs with increasing demands for institutional integrity and democratic decentralization.

Adamus Resources Limited gets reprieve from gov’t
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Supreme Court to Rule on Sky Train Case as Government Mandates Turnaround for Adamus Resources

Ghana’s political and legal landscape is currently marked by significant developments in institutional accountability and resource management. In the judicial sector, the legal battle over the abandoned Ghana Sky Train project has moved to the Supreme Court. Solomon Asamoah, the former CEO of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), and Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, the former GIIF Board Chairman, are challenging a High Court ruling that rejected their no-case submissions. This legal escalation follows allegations regarding a US$2 million payment made by GIIF for an equity stake in a failed urban transport project without the necessary approvals. Legal representatives for the accused have filed applications for certiorari to quash the trial court's decision and an injunction to halt the current proceedings. Despite being granted an extended 42-day window to file their defense, the accused have yet to do so, opting instead for the Supreme Court challenge. Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai confirmed that the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear these applications on August 27, 2025. The outcome of this hearing will be pivotal in determining whether the trial for the failed infrastructure project will proceed or be significantly delayed. Simultaneously, the administration of President John Mahama has intervened in the mining sector to resolve ongoing disputes at Adamus Resources Limited. Presidential Spokesman Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced that the government has instructed the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission to collaborate with the company on a 12-month turnaround roadmap. To oversee this revitalization, a six-member management team has been established, comprising three representatives from the government and three from Adamus Resources. The primary objectives are to settle the company's outstanding liabilities to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), while also seeking new capital investment. These dual developments highlight the government's current focus on balancing rigorous legal oversight with economic pragmatism. While the judiciary weighs the merits of the Sky Train applications, the executive branch is prioritizing the stabilization of key mineral assets to ensure they contribute to national revenue. The final roadmap for Adamus Resources is expected to be presented to the Presidency within two weeks, marking a critical step toward industrial recovery and the resolution of long-standing mining disputes.

Ghana's Galamsey Crisis Deepens as Enforcement Bribery Scandal and Expert Critiques Challenge President Mahama’s Administration
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Ghana's Galamsey Crisis Deepens as Enforcement Bribery Scandal and Expert Critiques Challenge President Mahama’s Administration

The fight against illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, has reached a critical juncture in Ghana as new reports of institutional corruption and systemic failure emerge. In the Ashanti Region, nine members of the Blue Water Guards were arrested on August 21, 2026, in Manso Adubia for allegedly impersonating officials from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The suspects are accused of taking bribes and extorting money, a development that NAIMOS officials warn could severely tarnish the reputation of the national anti-galamsey program. This breach of professionalism occurs amidst broader concerns that the current administration, led by President John Mahama, has yet to implement a sufficiently rigorous strategy to curb the ongoing environmental destruction. The struggle is further complicated by a growing trend of vigilantism and frustration among traditional leaders. In the Ahafo Region, Nana Okofo Dartey Amoako Atta, the Ankobeahene of the Tanoso Traditional Council, was recently arrested and granted bail for operating an unauthorized task force. While the chief claimed his group was seizing equipment to protect local resources, police charged him with promoting vigilantism and impersonating public officers after he failed to hand over seized items to law enforcement. Simultaneously, other chiefs in Tano North have publicly criticized the police for the "routine release" of arrested miners, arguing that institutional failures at the local level are allowing the Tano River to be polluted with impunity, despite community efforts to assist in arrests. Adding weight to these concerns, economic policy analyst Senyo Hosi of the OneGhana Movement has described galamsey as an "endemic" issue that has become a primary livelihood for nearly 100,000 Ghanaians. Speaking on JoyNews, Hosi presented alarming data showing that the number of people involved in illegal mining surged from 14,500 in August 2024 to approximately 98,000 by August 2025. Hosi further alleged that the proceeds from these illegal operations are now deeply embedded in the nation’s social fabric, claiming that galamsey funds political parties, churches, and media houses. He argued that success in the fight against illegal mining should be measured by water quality and environmental health rather than the volume of enforcement actions. Criticism has also come from IMANI Africa’s Vice President, Kofi Bentil, who characterized the current government’s response as insufficient. Bentil noted that while the previous Akufo-Addo administration’s efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, they were at least visible, whereas the current NDC-led government under President Mahama appears to lack a serious, comprehensive approach. He called for a shift in focus from enforcement alone toward large-scale environmental restoration and a fundamental review of mining policies. As the crisis escalates, the Mahama administration faces increasing pressure to move beyond the current NAIMOS framework and address the economic drivers that make galamsey more lucrative for the youth than formal employment.

Dr Ernest Henry Norgbey, MP for Ashaiman; Freeman Tsekpo, MCE for Ashaiman, and other stakeholders inspecting ongoing road and drainage projects in the municipality
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Roads Minister Agbodza Announces Major Progress on Accra-Kumasi Expressway as 'Big Push' Infrastructure Gains Momentum

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has announced that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway is nearing a critical milestone, with less than 20 kilometers of clearing work remaining before the project connects with the Kumasi Orbiter. Speaking on the progress of the vital artery linking Ghana’s two largest cities, the Minister indicated that approximately 10 to 15 kilometers of work are left to be completed by the contractor, Kofi Job Company Limited. Agbodza credited the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his steadfast advocacy for road infrastructure and acknowledged the Ghana Armed Forces for their assistance in the clearing efforts. This project is expected to significantly enhance travel efficiency and stimulate economic activity along the route, facilitating access to facilities such as the Sewua Hospital. Parallel to the expressway progress, the Upper West Parliamentary Caucus, led by Dr. Sebastian Sandaare and Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing, recently conducted an inspection of 'Big Push' infrastructure projects, specifically focusing on the N12 Bole-Sawla-Wa highway. While construction on the N12 is currently reported at 4% completion, officials expressed satisfaction with the pace of road clearing and drainage works. Wa West MP Supt. (Rtd) Peter Lanchene Toobu highlighted the security and economic benefits of the project, asserting that improved road networks would create jobs and help curb highway robberies. Contractors such as P&W Ghanem Limited were praised for their efficiency, with assurances given that major regional works would be completed ahead of the 2028 deadline. Despite these advancements, the government faces increasing pressure from youth groups and residents in other regions to ensure development is equitable. In the Upper East Region, Activista Ghana—a movement affiliated with ActionAid—has called on the government to translate the significant political support from the area’s youth into tangible infrastructure. Regional Coordinator Nicholas Azebire emphasized the need to prioritize the stalled Upper East Regional Airport and healthcare facilities. Similarly, in Ashaiman, while drainage projects are reportedly 70% complete, residents have expressed frustration over the slow pace of road rehabilitation, urging Municipal Chief Executive Freeman Tsekpo to move beyond inspections to visible improvements. Adding a layer of complexity to the infrastructure agenda is a mounting dispute between the Ministry of Roads and the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS). Minister Agbodza recently signaled intentions to report certain surveyors over allegations of inflated compensation claims that have caused financial losses and project delays. In a swift response, the GhIS dismissed claims of professional misconduct, arguing that discrepancies between claims and assessments often stem from legitimate valuation factors rather than fraud. The Institution has pledged to cooperate with investigations while upholding the constitutional right of affected individuals to fair compensation. As the Mahama administration pushes toward its 2028 infrastructure targets, balancing regional demands with professional oversight and fiscal discipline remains a central challenge.

President Mahama Advocates Five African UN Security Council Seats and Clarifies Stance on Historical Slavery Guilt
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President Mahama Advocates Five African UN Security Council Seats and Clarifies Stance on Historical Slavery Guilt

President John Dramani Mahama has intensified his call for global institutional reform, proposing that Africa be allocated five permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council. Speaking in an interview with TRT World, the President argued that this expansion is essential to ensuring the continent’s fair representation in global decision-making. Under his proposal, each of Africa's five geographical regions would occupy one of these permanent seats. President Mahama emphasized a strategic two-step approach to this reform, suggesting that the international community should first reach a consensus on the expansion of membership before tackling the more complex and contentious issue of veto powers currently held by the Council's permanent members. During the same international engagement, President Mahama addressed the historical complexities of the transatlantic slave trade and the responsibility of global powers. While acknowledging that the United States significantly benefited from enslaved labor for its national development, he stated that the U.S. should not bear the primary guilt for the trade itself. He attributed that responsibility to the European powers that orchestrated the transport of enslaved Africans. The President expressed disappointment over the U.S. decision to vote against a Ghana-backed UN resolution declaring the slave trade a crime against humanity, noting that the U.S. was still a colony during the height of the trade, though slavery persisted there until the Civil War and subsequent emancipation. On the domestic front, President Mahama has also been engaging with moral and religious institutions to bolster national development and social discipline. Addressing the 26th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) at Abetifi–Kwahu, he urged the clergy to remain a strong moral voice in national affairs. He highlighted the church's critical role in comforting the afflicted while challenging systemic injustices. The President called for a collaborative effort between the state and the church to address pressing social challenges, including youth unemployment, environmental degradation, and the rising tide of indiscipline within educational institutions. These collective efforts reflect a dual-track governance approach by the Mahama administration: seeking to elevate Africa’s profile and justice on the global stage while simultaneously reinforcing the moral and social fabric within Ghana. By advocating for regional representation at the UN and fostering partnerships with domestic religious bodies, the President aims to translate high-level policy into tangible benefits for citizens. The administration continues to push for a united African front in international negotiations, believing that consensus among continental leaders is the prerequisite for achieving long-standing demands for global equity.

Supreme Court throws out Oppong Nkrumah's injunction application on vacation court criminal trials
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Supreme Court Dismisses Kojo Oppong Nkrumah’s Bid to Halt Criminal Trials During 2026 Legal Vacation

The Supreme Court of Ghana has dismissed an application filed by Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, which sought an interlocutory injunction to halt specific criminal trials during the 2026 legal vacation. The ruling, delivered by Justice Gabriel Pwamang, clears the way for the High Court to continue proceedings on selected high-profile cases during the traditional recess period, which runs annually from August 1 to September 30. The court maintained that the application failed to demonstrate serious constitutional concerns and emphasized that ongoing reforms aimed at accelerating judicial processes do not inherently discriminate against accused persons. The legal dispute centers on administrative warrants issued by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, which authorized the continuation of certain criminal trials while most of the judiciary is on break. While the legal vacation is traditionally intended as a period of rest for judicial staff, the current administration has pushed for a more efficient justice system to clear backlogs. This has led to a sharp disagreement between Kojo Oppong Nkrumah and Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai. Nkrumah argued that the selective nature of the cases chosen for the vacation hearings raised questions about fairness and the validity of the administrative warrants used to bypass the standard recess. Despite the dismissal of the injunction, the move has been met with significant praise within political and legal circles. Ishaq Ibrahim, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Legal Directorate, commended Nkrumah for his "courageous" decision to challenge the administrative actions of the Chief Justice. Similarly, legal practitioners Austin Brako-Powers and Kwame Owusu-Danso defended the MP’s actions, describing the lawsuit as a vital exercise of democratic rights. They argued that seeking judicial interpretation on the constitutionality of administrative warrants is essential for strengthening the rule of law and ensuring transparency in judicial management. Looking ahead, the substantive case remains before the court to determine the ultimate constitutionality of holding trials during the legal vacation via administrative directives. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has already signaled his intention to seek a review of the Supreme Court's latest ruling, noting that the court's acknowledgment of different treatment for specific cases warrants further scrutiny. The final resolution of this case is expected to set a major precedent for how the Ghanaian judiciary balances the need for expedited justice with the statutory rights of judicial officers and the procedural consistency of the courts.

Bernard Antwi Boasiako Picks NPP Chairmanship Forms Amid 20-Year Prison Sentence and Constitutional Challenges
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Bernard Antwi Boasiako Picks NPP Chairmanship Forms Amid 20-Year Prison Sentence and Constitutional Challenges

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has officially entered the race for the National Chairmanship of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) despite his current incarceration. While serving a 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining activities, his campaign team picked up nomination forms on his behalf. This move has ignited intense legal and political scrutiny regarding his eligibility to lead the opposition party while behind bars. The bid faces significant constitutional hurdles at both the party and national levels. Article 3 of the NPP’s 2025 constitution explicitly disqualifies any member sentenced to more than 10 years in prison from holding office. Furthermore, legal analysts point to Articles 55(8) and 94(2) of the 1992 Ghanaian Constitution, which collectively stipulate that individuals convicted of high crimes or serious offenses are barred from seeking executive positions within political parties. These provisions suggest that Boasiako’s conviction renders him legally ineligible to serve as a founding member or executive officer. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been quick to criticize the development. Rashid Tanko Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, described the NPP’s decision to allow Boasiako to pursue the chairmanship as a display of "lawlessness." Tanko argued that permitting a convicted individual to contest for such a high-ranking political office undermines the rule of law and the integrity of Ghana's democratic institutions, especially given the severity of the mining-related conviction. As the NPP prepares for its internal elections, the feasibility of Boasiako's candidacy remains in doubt. Since his freedom of movement is legally restricted by his court-ordered conviction, attending mandatory vetting sessions at the NPP Headquarters would likely require special leave that legal experts argue would violate constitutional norms. While his legal team is currently pursuing an appeal against his conviction, the outcome of his candidacy will serve as a critical test of the NPP’s adherence to its own internal regulations and the national constitution.

Dr Joseph Kobina Essibu (right), newly-elected Central Regional Chairman of the NPP, with Dr Mahamdu Bawumia, flag bearer of the party, after the courtesy call
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NPP National Executive Race Intensifies as 50 Aspirants File for 2026 Internal Elections Amid Regional Strategy and Unity Drives

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially closed its nomination window for the 2026 National Officers Elections, with 50 aspirants stepping forward to contest nine key leadership positions. The National Officers Elections Committee (NOEC) confirmed that the nomination period, which ended on August 22, 2026, was conducted peacefully. As the party prepares for its October 3 election day, the filing of completed forms is set to take place between August 23 and August 29, followed by a rigorous vetting process scheduled from August 31 to September 3. NOEC Chairman Frederick Opare-Ansah emphasized that the purchase of a form does not guarantee candidacy, as all aspirants must meet strict constitutional requirements to be cleared for the ballot. The race for national leadership has attracted significant interest, particularly for the National Vice Chairperson position, which saw the highest number of contenders with 13 aspirants. Other contested roles include the National Chairperson with five candidates, the National Organiser with eight, and the National Youth Organiser with six. The General Secretary and National Treasurer positions have each attracted four aspirants. Following the vetting phase, the committee plans to publish results on September 5, with an appeals window open from September 6 to 7. A final notice of poll is expected on September 14, ensuring a transparent lead-up to the October elections. While the national leadership transition remains a focal point, the party is simultaneously fortifying its regional structures. Dr. Joseph Kobina Essibu, the Central Regional Chairman, has unveiled a strategic five-pillar plan designed to deliver the region for the NPP in the 2028 general elections. His vision includes a "Grassroots Recovery Programme," early campaigning, and a data-driven approach to voter engagement. Dr. Essibu stressed that the party must prioritize winning parliamentary seats over simply increasing vote percentages, committing to a systematic organizational method rather than relying on slogans to reclaim political ground. Adding to this atmosphere of preparation, calls for reconciliation are echoing from the local level. Emmanuel Coffie Nyatsikah, the immediate past Chairman of the NPP in Ketu South, recently used his 50th birthday celebration to issue a public apology for any past grievances caused during his tenure. Highlighting the critical role of Ketu South in future electoral success, Nyatsikah urged party members to embrace forgiveness and unity. This sentiment aligns with the national party's broader objective of rebuilding trust and fostering a cohesive front as they navigate the internal elections and look toward the challenge of the 2028 national polls.

GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi Challenges Minority Leader Over Alleged $1.7bn Loss and Personal 'Extortionist' Claims
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GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi Challenges Minority Leader Over Alleged $1.7bn Loss and Personal 'Extortionist' Claims

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has engaged in a high-stakes public dispute with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin over the financial integrity of the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). The conflict centers on claims made by Afenyo-Markin that the program incurred a staggering loss of US$1.7 billion (approximately GH"22 billion) in 2025, citing reports from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Gyamfi has vehemently rejected these allegations, asserting that the figure represents necessary operational costs rather than financial loss or theft. He clarified that GoldBod actually recorded an operational surplus of GH"907 million in 2025, accusing the Minority Leader of misrepresenting IMF data to orchestrate a smear campaign against the institution. The verbal exchange escalated as Gyamfi labeled Afenyo-Markin an "extortionist," a term he defended by citing undisclosed private dealings between the two men. Daring the Effutu Member of Parliament to take the matter to court, Gyamfi maintained that his remarks were factual and justified by Afenyo-Markin's own public record. This sentiment was echoed by Lamtiig Apanga, Deputy CEO of the Gaming Commission, who suggested that the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) attacks are rooted in frustration over the success of the gold trading program. Conversely, critics like Larry Dogbe of The Herald Newspaper argued that the GH"22 billion in question could have funded vital infrastructure, urging a move away from partisan rhetoric toward genuine fiscal accountability. Within the Minority caucus, some dissent has emerged regarding the strategy employed by Afenyo-Markin. Bernard Bediako Baidoo, the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, observed that the Minority Leader appeared to be acting in isolation, questioning the level of support from his NPP colleagues during media discussions on the gold sector. Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) faced its own internal friction when National Chairman aspirant Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye criticized Gyamfi's harsh tone. However, the two have since reconciled after Vanderpuye issued a public apology, which Gyamfi accepted while calling for party unity to focus on government accountability. As the debate continues, economic observers are calling for a more transparent and less politicized management of Ghana's gold reserves. Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), warned the government to learn from the challenges faced by previous initiatives like the Gold-for-Oil program to mitigate risks involving commodity price volatility and foreign exchange. The outcome of this controversy remains pivotal, as it touches upon the broader management of Ghana’s natural resources under the current administration of President John Mahama and the ongoing demand for institutional transparency within the nation's financial sector.