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.

NPP Internal Friction Peaks as Bibiani Members Demand Chairman's Resignation Amid Calls for Party Unity
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NPP Internal Friction Peaks as Bibiani Members Demand Chairman's Resignation Amid Calls for Party Unity

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is currently navigating a period of significant internal friction as grassroots members in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Constituency demand the immediate resignation of Western North Regional Chairman, Emmanuel Armah. This unrest follows the mass disqualification of 126 aspirants who sought to contest for 180 positions within the Electoral Area Executive Committee. The disqualifications have sparked legal threats and a potential vote of no confidence, highlighting growing tensions within the party's regional leadership structures as they prepare for vital internal organizational elections. In the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Constituency, disgruntled members have accused Chairman Armah of mismanagement and operating the party as a "one-man show." The group alleges that the disqualifications lacked proper justification and were part of underhanded tactics to manipulate the election process. Legal action has already been initiated to seek redress, with Deputy NPP Secretary Dr. Kofi Anane Korsah criticizing the Chairman's actions for making the party less appealing within the constituency. The group warned that if Armah does not step down, they will pursue a formal vote of no confidence to protect the party’s integrity and electoral prospects. Simultaneously, the party is weighing the status of Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong. Despite calls from some party members for his expulsion following controversial remarks, Agyapong's spokesperson, Kwasi Kwarteng, has argued that such a move would be counterproductive. Kwarteng emphasized that expelling Agyapong is not a viable option, stressing the importance of keeping the MP and his significant supporter base within the party fold to ensure victory in the upcoming national elections. This highlights a broader internal debate regarding the balance between party discipline and the necessity of maintaining a united front. Amidst these localized and structural challenges, Samuel Awuku, MP for Akuapim North, has publicly expressed solidarity with the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Drawing parallels to the political trials faced by former President John Agyekum Kufuor and current President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Awuku urged Bawumia to "hold the line and stay the course." He emphasized that true leadership is forged through adversity and reassured the Vice President of the unwavering support of loyalists. As the NPP moves toward the general election, these internal disputes between regional accountability and high-level unity remain a critical focal point for the party's leadership.

Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Leads Presidential Staffers in GH₵6.1m Donation to ‘Mahama Cares’ Medical Trust Fund
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Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Leads Presidential Staffers in GH₵6.1m Donation to ‘Mahama Cares’ Medical Trust Fund

Hon. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), has led senior officials at Jubilee House to present a cheque of GH₵6.1 million to the National Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as Mahama Cares. The donation, presented on June 15, represents a significant collective contribution from the presidency, comprising six months of President John Dramani Mahama’s salary alongside one month’s salary from all presidential appointees and staffers. This initiative is a core component of the government’s Reset Agenda, aimed at addressing the financial burdens of healthcare for the most vulnerable citizens in Ghana. During the presentation ceremony at Jubilee House, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo underscored that the donation serves as a tangible demonstration of leadership by example. She emphasized that public service is ultimately an act of giving and that the government remains committed to compassion in action. By voluntarily contributing their earnings, the President and his staff intend to set a precedent for corporate entities and the broader public to support the fund, which focuses on providing lifesaving medical interventions for patients facing high-cost healthcare requirements. The Administrator of the National Medical Trust Fund, Ms. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, expressed her gratitude for the donation and outlined the fund's strategic vision. According to Darko-Opoku, the primary goal of the Mahama Cares initiative is to enhance specialist healthcare delivery across all regions of Ghana. This includes bolstering the specialist workforce and improving the infrastructure necessary to treat chronic diseases that often bankrupt families. The GH₵6.1 million contribution is expected to provide immediate relief to families struggling with expensive medical bills while strengthening the long-term capacity of the healthcare system. As the Reset Agenda moves forward, government officials are calling for a nationwide effort to sustain the medical trust. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo called on Ghanaians and corporate bodies to join the cause, highlighting that such collective efforts are essential for building a resilient health sector. The ceremony, which was attended by various presidential advisors and senior staff, concluded with a reaffirmation of the government's commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to every citizen, regardless of their financial status.

Reuters Vance heads to Switzerland
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US and Iran Open High-Stakes Diplomacy in Switzerland Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions and Regional Conflicts

Direct negotiations between the United States and Iran have commenced in Switzerland, marking a significant diplomatic effort to address the nuclear issue and broker a ceasefire in Lebanon. Led by U.S. Vice-President JD Vance and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the talks are being facilitated by Pakistani mediators. The discussions follow the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending military conflict, which includes a timeline for lifting U.S. naval blockades. Simultaneously, foreign ministers from Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia have convened in Cairo to support these developments, emphasizing the urgent need for regional peace and security stability. Contradictory reports surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil artery, have surfaced alongside the diplomatic push. While Iranian authorities claimed to have closed the strait in response to Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright reported that maritime traffic remains uninterrupted. According to Wright, over 120 vessels passed through the strait in a recent 48-hour period, with shipping volumes for oil and oil products returning to levels seen before the conflict began on February 28. The U.S. military continues to monitor the area closely to ensure that the restoration of shipping outlined in the recent bilateral memorandum remains on track. The regional security landscape remains volatile as Israel adjusts its military posture. The Israeli military recently announced it would cease strikes in Lebanon outside a self-declared "security zone" along the border, focusing instead on dismantling Hezbollah's extensive tunnel network. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that Israel will maintain this buffer zone as long as necessary, despite the Lebanese government denouncing the presence as an illegal occupation. Tensions are further exacerbated by a series of strikes in Gaza that resulted in the deaths of at least six people, including Al Jazeera cameraman Ahmed Wishah. While the IDF labeled Wishah a terrorist linked to Hamas, Al Jazeera has condemned the killing as part of a systematic policy targeting journalists. As the Switzerland talks progress, the international community remains focused on the fragility of current ceasefire agreements. While the U.S. and Iran seek a path toward de-escalation, ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, present significant hurdles to a lasting peace. The next two months are expected to be a critical period for additional negotiations, as regional powers attempt to transform these initial diplomatic openings into a comprehensive framework for Middle Eastern stability. The success of these efforts will likely depend on whether the parties can reconcile the continued military operations on the ground with the commitments made at the negotiating table.

Keir Starmer Faces Imminent Resignation Pressure as Andy Burnham’s Victory Shakes Labour Leadership
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Keir Starmer Faces Imminent Resignation Pressure as Andy Burnham’s Victory Shakes Labour Leadership

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly on the verge of announcing his resignation, with speculation mounting that a timetable for his departure could be set as early as Monday. This potential political earthquake follows intense internal pressure within the Labour Party, reaching a boiling point after his rival, Andy Burnham, secured a seat in Parliament via the Makerfield by-election. Although Starmer led the party to a historic victory in 2024, his tenure has since been marred by a series of scandals and controversial policy shifts that have significantly eroded his public approval and party support. The movement to oust Starmer has gained significant momentum, with over 100 Labour lawmakers publicly calling for him to step down. The entry of Andy Burnham into Parliament is seen as a turning point, as it provides a clear path for a formal leadership challenge from a figure who has long positioned himself as a champion of a new political direction. While Burnham has yet to officially declare a challenge, his recent victory speech hinted at a desire for significant change, and other potential contenders, such as former health minister Wes Streeting, are reportedly weighing their options. Despite the gravity of these reports, particularly those appearing in Britain’s Observer, a government source maintains that Starmer remains focused on the job and is prepared to fight any leadership contest that may arise. This internal friction highlights a deepening divide between the Prime Minister’s inner circle and a significant portion of the parliamentary party. Senior Labour figures are reportedly already discussing potential cabinet reshuffles and appointments under a prospective new leader, suggesting that the party is preparing for a transition despite official denials. If Starmer does resign, he would be the seventh prime minister to lead the United Kingdom in just over a decade, a statistic that underscores the persistent political instability currently facing the country. As the Labour Party grapples with these leadership tensions and public dissatisfaction, the coming days will be pivotal in determining whether the government can stabilize its leadership or if the UK will face yet another transition of power. The outcome of this internal struggle will have profound implications for the party's ability to govern and its standing with the British electorate.

Six Arrested After Gunfire at Kristo Asafo Palace Injures Former MP Sarah Adwoa Safo
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Six Arrested After Gunfire at Kristo Asafo Palace Injures Former MP Sarah Adwoa Safo

Former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has sustained gunshot injuries following a violent confrontation at a leadership installation ceremony for the Kristo Asafo Mission in Kwabenya. The incident, which occurred on June 21, 2026, led to the arrest of six private security guards and a significant reinforcement of police presence at the Akofena Palace. This physical altercation marks a volatile escalation in the ongoing succession battle within the prominent religious organization following the death of its founder, Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo, in September 2025. Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the circumstances that led to the shooting. According to the Ghana Police Service, Adwoa Safo was allegedly denied entry to a ceremony at the residence of Tamakloe Safo Jehoshaphat, leading to a confrontation where armed personnel discharged weapons, injuring the former MP's left ear and neck and damaging her vehicle. Conversely, Nana Kofi Kantanka, a lawyer for the Kristo Asafo Mission, alleged that Safo initiated the disruption by attempting to ram her vehicle through the entrance gates. Some witnesses and church representatives further claimed that security personnel only fired warning shots after a weapon was allegedly discharged from within Safo’s vehicle, though the former MP is reported to be in stable condition while receiving medical treatment. The Madina Divisional Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter, retaining Safo’s vehicle for forensic examination. During the operation, authorities recovered five pump-action guns and a Taurus pistol from the scene. The six arrested security guards have been transferred to the Police Headquarters as investigators work to identify other individuals involved in the violence. In the wake of the gunfire, the police have heightened patrols around Kwabenya to prevent further clashes among rival factions of the church and the Safo family. Underlying this physical conflict is a deep-seated legal dispute currently before the Accra High Court. Two senior church members, Kweku Agyenim Boateng and Seth Appiah Richard Brown, have sued to halt the installation of Israel Kwadwo Safo (Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena) as the new leader. The plaintiffs argue that the succession process violates the church’s 2017 constitution and contested 2024 amendments, which they claim disqualify the current appointee. As the court case proceeds, the recent violence underscores the severe divisions threatening the stability of one of Ghana’s most prominent indigenous religious and philanthropic institutions.

Handout via REUTERS US President Donald Trump speaks to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, June 17
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Ghana’s Political Landscape Shifts as NPP and NDC Intensify Leadership Races, Internal Reforms, and Governance Debates

Ghana’s political arena is experiencing a surge of internal restructuring and leadership maneuvering as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) gear up for upcoming electoral cycles. Central to these developments are high-stakes regional and national chairmanship races, alongside a suite of new party guidelines aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness. Simultaneously, the nation’s democratic discourse is being shaped by urgent calls from academia to reform language barriers in Parliament and the justice system, while Ghanaian diplomats continue to break new ground on the international stage through historic judicial appointments. Within the NPP, the race for the Ashanti Regional Chairmanship has intensified, with Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu positioning himself as a candidate of performance and measurable impact, advocating for unity over confrontational rhetoric. To maintain electoral integrity, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, has officially prohibited members of Constituency Elections Committees (CECs) from contesting executive elections unless they resign, a move aimed at ensuring a level playing field. Strategic appointments are also being made for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 2028 campaign, including Dennis Miracle Aboagye as Director of Communications and Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu as Chief of Staff. Meanwhile, former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko has received backing from figures like Matthew Nyindam to lead the party as National Chairman, highlighting a focus on restoring internal cohesion. The NDC is equally active, preparing to mark what would have been the 79th birthday of its founder, Jerry John Rawlings, by naming the party’s headquarters in Accra after him and unveiling a commemorative bust. This event, to be led by former President John Dramani Mahama, coincides with new leadership bids, most notably from Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, who is seeking the National Chairman position. On the international front, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang recently engaged with the Ghanaian diaspora in Canada, promoting the party’s "Reset Agenda" and flagship programs like the 24-Hour Economy. However, the party faces localized challenges, including an internal rift in the Akuapem South constituency over the allocation of operational funds and recent polls from Global InfoAnalytics suggesting potential shifts in support across the Northern and Bono regions. Beyond partisan politics, Ghana celebrated a historic milestone with the election of Chief State Attorney Dr. Sylvia Ama Adusu as a Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), making her the first African woman to hold the post. Domestically, the government and traditional authorities are being urged to tackle broader societal issues, such as the Narcotics Control Commission’s (NACOC) appeal to chiefs to use cultural festivals for anti-drug campaigns. These domestic efforts are set against a backdrop of complex regional developments, including Zimbabwe’s constitutional move to extend presidential terms and rising security tensions in Niger and Ethiopia. As Ghana moves toward its next major electoral test, these internal reforms and international achievements will likely define the country’s democratic resilience and global standing.

Ghana's Accountability Crisis: Institutions Overwhelmed as Public Trust Fades Amid Galamsey and Corruption Scandals
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Ghana's Accountability Crisis: Institutions Overwhelmed as Public Trust Fades Amid Galamsey and Corruption Scandals

Ghana’s fight against corruption and illegal mining is currently facing a significant trust deficit, with experts and civil society organizations warning that laws and institutions alone are insufficient without public confidence. Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), recently highlighted that despite substantial investments in anti-corruption frameworks, the 2025 Afrobarometer report indicates a perception of rising corruption and weakening trust. This sentiment is echoed by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), which reveals it is struggling under the weight of 10,000 annual complaints. Commissioner Dr. Joseph Whittal noted that financial constraints and the complexity of cases are severely straining the Commission’s investigative resources, making it difficult to maintain the pace required for effective public accountability. The effectiveness of specific anti-corruption offices has also come under fire. Tsutey Yakubu of the NDC Communication Team recently questioned Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng’s commitment to justice, suggesting that the office may be shielding high-profile figures like former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Similarly, a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), including the New Voter Forum, has raised concerns regarding the government’s "Operation Recover All Loot" (ORAL), citing alleged irregularities within the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) at the nation’s ports. Amidst these criticisms, banking consultant Dr. Richmond Atuahene has expressed skepticism regarding the government’s proposal to create specialized courts for auditors, arguing that strengthening internal controls and institutional capacity would be a more efficient solution than adding more layers to the judiciary. The environmental and legal battle against illegal mining, or galamsey, continues to be a focal point of political and social tension. In the judicial sphere, Samuel Atta Akyea, lead counsel for New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), is seeking to adjourn the judgment in the Samreboi illegal mining case. Atta Akyea argues that the recent change in legal representation necessitates more time to ensure a fair trial for Wontumi, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of permitting illegal mining on his concession. This legal maneuvering occurs against a backdrop of extreme danger for those uncovering the truth; investigative journalists have described reporting on galamsey as a "death sentence in slow motion," citing harrowing encounters with armed miners and a troubling lack of protection from complicit local officials. Beyond domestic concerns, Ghanaian leadership is also addressing regional human rights issues through international bodies. The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Etse Dafeamekpor, has called upon the Pan-African Parliament to adopt a resolution condemning xenophobic violence in South Africa. He emphasized that the harassment of foreign nationals and the unlawful enforcement of immigration laws by private citizens undermine African unity and the continent's moral authority on global justice. Whether dealing with internal corruption or external diplomatic challenges, the consensus from various stakeholders suggests that restoring trust through transparency, independent audits, and the protection of those who expose wrongdoing remains the most critical hurdle for Ghana’s democratic governance.

Parliamentary Committee Urges Fund Reallocation to Healthcare Amid Nationwide Infrastructure Demands
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Parliamentary Committee Urges Fund Reallocation to Healthcare Amid Nationwide Infrastructure Demands

The Minority members of Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee, led by Ranking Member Francis Asenso-Boakye, have called on the government to redirect funds from the 24-Hour Market initiative toward the completion of stalled Agenda 111 hospital projects. Speaking at a workshop in Accra, the committee emphasized that many districts already possess underutilized market facilities, making new constructions a secondary priority to the urgent need for healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas. This call for a shift in public spending underscores a broader debate over project continuity and the necessity of aligning government investment with the immediate welfare of citizens rather than partisan priorities. Simultaneously, the government faces mounting pressure over the state of Ghana's road network. In Wassa Amenfi West, hundreds of residents in Asankrangwa recently staged protests, donning red and black to demand action on deteriorating roads that have crippled the local cocoa and timber-driven economy. This local frustration is mirrored at the national level by the Convention People’s Party (CPP), which urged the Minister of Roads and Highways to collaborate with local assemblies for immediate repairs. While protests continue in some sectors, progress was noted elsewhere; JICA consultants recently commended the preparatory works for the Santasi-Asokwa dual carriageway in Kumasi, and the 80-kilometre Jinijini–Sampa road project is reportedly on track for a 2027 completion. In the Volta Region, Regional Minister James Gunu reported significant developmental strides, highlighting the construction of dozens of new school dormitories, classroom blocks, and CHPS compounds to address health deficits. The region is also set to benefit from the 24-hour economy market project and coastal protection initiatives. This regional progress is complemented by announcements from Deputy Minister of Energy Richard Gyan-Mensah regarding new energy infrastructure for the Central Region, including the deployment of 20,000 solar streetlights and rural electrification expansions scheduled to begin in July. Meanwhile, the judicial system is poised for a major upgrade in the Upper West Region as the new Wa Court Complex nears 90% completion. Supreme Court Judge Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi, following an inspection of the facility, expressed optimism that the complex would be commissioned by October, provided that remaining financial challenges and minor external works are addressed. In a similar vein of local initiative, the Asante Akim Central Municipal Assembly has launched a fundraising campaign to replace its 20-year-old fire tender, successfully raising GH¢300,000 to bolster local emergency response capabilities. As these various infrastructure projects and debates unfold, former Works and Housing Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye highlighted that the Akufo-Addo administration invested GH¢540 million in flood control over eight years, urging future administrations to sustain this momentum to protect Accra from perennial flooding. Reflecting on these developments, the outgoing Swiss Ambassador praised Ghana's vibrant democracy and capacity for dialogue. He emphasized that while the country faces challenges in institutional effectiveness and environmental degradation, the resilience and ambition of the Ghanaian people remain the strongest indicators of a prosperous future.

Loughborough University Students Allege Assault by Ghana High Commission Officials During Scholarship Protest
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Loughborough University Students Allege Assault by Ghana High Commission Officials During Scholarship Protest

Six Ghanaian master’s students at Loughborough University have accused officials at the Ghana High Commission in London of verbal abuse and physical assault during a demonstration over unpaid scholarship funds. The protest, which took place in October 2023, was sparked by more than 18 months of outstanding tuition fees and living stipends totaling £238,852 (approximately ₵3.5 million). According to the students, these significant financial delays have severely hindered their academic progress and prevented them from participating in their graduation ceremonies. The demonstration reportedly turned volatile when students attempted to seek an audience with High Commission staff. Protesters, led by convener Noah Krah, alleged that officials remained unresponsive during a four-hour peaceful demonstration outside the premises. When two students eventually entered the building to engage with authorities, they were reportedly met with verbal hostility. The group specifically identified High Commissioner Sabah Zita Benson as being present during the heated interactions. One student, Abena Fosuah, was allegedly physically assaulted by a staff member when she attempted to record the confrontation on her mobile phone. The students claim her device was forcibly seized and the recordings were deleted. Medical assessments have since confirmed that the student involved in the physical altercation sustained a soft tissue injury and is currently receiving professional support for trauma. In the wake of the incident, the group filed a formal complaint with the High Commission, though they report that no official response has been received. The affected scholars are demanding an immediate investigation into the conduct of the embassy staff, a formal public apology, and the urgent release of their scholarship funds to settle their mounting debts with the university. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ghanaian government-sponsored students abroad, who frequently report systemic delays in stipend payments. The Loughborough students have indicated that they are considering legal action if their demands are not addressed. The situation places further pressure on the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address the welfare of students representing the country internationally, as financial backlogs continue to jeopardize the degrees and mental well-being of those enrolled in overseas programs.

Africa Policy Lens Urges Amendments to Gold Board Act Amid Shifts in Ghana’s Mining Ownership and Policy
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Africa Policy Lens Urges Amendments to Gold Board Act Amid Shifts in Ghana’s Mining Ownership and Policy

Ghana’s mining landscape is undergoing significant regulatory and structural changes, highlighted by calls for legislative amendments and potential shifts in mine ownership. The policy think tank Africa Policy Lens (APL) has urgently requested an amendment to Section 25 of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), to resolve institutional overlaps and prevent financial mismanagement. These calls for reform come as the government simultaneously explores the transfer of major mining assets to local firms, signaling a robust push for domestic participation and stricter environmental governance in the extractive sector. APL’s concerns center on the potential for the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to encroach upon the established mandates of the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission. This tension was recently highlighted by GoldBod’s GH₵36.35 million agreement with the Forestry Commission and the Ghana Armed Forces to restore 50 hectares of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, which had been devastated by illegal mining activities. APL argues that while reclamation is necessary, the current wording of the Act risks creating governance issues and financial losses. The think tank recommends that funds for such environmental initiatives be administered by the relevant specialized agencies legally mandated for such tasks, rather than by GoldBod itself. Beyond legislative adjustments, the Ghanaian government is contemplating a landmark shift in ownership for the Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine once its current lease expires in April 2027. Reports indicate that authorities are considering transferring control to local firms to increase indigenous participation in the gold industry, particularly as global gold prices continue to rise. Under this proposal, local miners would submit bids evaluated on their commitments to environmental standards, local employment, and community infrastructure. This initiative aligns with recent fiscal changes, including the government's decision to increase mining royalties from 5% to 12% to boost state revenue. These developments in Ghana coincide with a growing continental movement toward environmental caution in resource extraction. Recently, Kenya became the 42nd nation to join a global coalition calling for a moratorium on deep-seabed mining, emphasizing the urgent need to protect fragile ocean ecosystems from industrial disruption. As Ghana navigates the balance between local economic empowerment, institutional efficiency, and environmental restoration, the broader African context reflects an increasing priority on sustainable and well-regulated resource management to safeguard both the economy and the environment.

Nkwanta South: Interior Ministry Imposes Curfew Following Deadly Attack in Odomi
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Nkwanta South: Interior Ministry Imposes Curfew Following Deadly Attack in Odomi

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew in several communities within the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, effective June 19, 2026. The movement restriction, which runs daily from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., was implemented following a violent surge in the area, specifically a deadly attack in Odomi that claimed the lives of three individuals and left nine others seriously injured. The curfew covers key areas including Nkwanta, Keri, Abrewanko, and Shari, as authorities move to stem the tide of escalating retaliatory violence that has already forced many residents to flee their homes. Following the advice of the National Security Council, the government has coupled the curfew with a total ban on the carrying of arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons within the affected communities. Security agencies have been tasked with strict enforcement of these measures, and the Interior Ministry has warned that any individual found violating these directives will face severe legal penalties. The government’s primary objective is to restore order and provide a secure environment where local leaders can engage in peace efforts without the immediate threat of further bloodshed. Traditional and religious leaders have expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation. Nana Soglo Allorh, President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs, condemned the recent killings and noted that while a seven-member investigative committee was previously established to find a lasting solution to the conflict, its work has been stalled due to a lack of funding. He called for urgent collaboration between the government, security agencies, and community leaders to revitalize mediation efforts. Similarly, the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan, through Bishop Most Rev. Simon Kofi Appiah, has urged residents to choose dialogue over hostility, emphasizing that genuine resolutions arise from mutual respect and understanding rather than violence. As the curfew takes effect, the focus remains on stabilizing the region and preventing further casualties. The government is urging residents to express their grievances through non-violent channels and has called on community leaders to actively promote calm. The success of these security measures will depend on the ability of state institutions to address the underlying causes of the conflict while ensuring that the investigative bodies tasked with resolving the dispute are adequately resourced to complete their mandate.

Minister Eric Opoku Seeks GH¢1.5bn to Address Food Glut and Strengthen National Reserves
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Minister Eric Opoku Seeks GH¢1.5bn to Address Food Glut and Strengthen National Reserves

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has revealed that Ghana requires approximately GH¢1.5 billion to effectively manage a deepening food glut and the associated storage crisis. While the government initially allocated GH¢100 million to purchase excess produce, this figure was later bolstered by an additional GH¢200 million, bringing the total to GH¢300 million. Despite this increase, the Minister emphasized that the current funding remains insufficient to address the scale of the surplus. The government is now focused on enhancing storage infrastructure nationwide and evaluating existing facilities from previous administrations to better support farmers and prevent post-harvest losses. Supporting this strategic shift, George Abradu-Otoo, CEO of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), noted that Ghana has historically trailed neighboring countries like Mali in establishing robust national food reserves. The current initiative to build a formal reserve system marks a significant policy change aimed at stabilizing prices and ensuring long-term food security. Although the GH¢300 million received for grain purchases is significantly less than the required GH¢1.5 billion, officials view the current efforts as a critical first step toward a more resilient agricultural economy. Addressing recent reports of friction within the government, Minister Opoku dismissed claims of a rift with the Ministry of Finance regarding the disbursement of over GH¢1.6 billion in agricultural funds. He clarified that any perceived disagreement was the result of a communication gap and a misunderstanding of official documents rather than a substantive policy dispute. The Finance Ministry confirmed the release of the funds for this year's agricultural support, and both ministries have reaffirmed their alignment on national development goals. Opoku criticized sensationalized media reports, urging a focus on institutional collaboration to drive the sector forward. Beyond storage and funding, the Ministry is intensifying efforts to modernize specific sub-sectors and promote agro-processing. During a visit to P&A African Food International Ltd, Opoku advocated for a transition from primary production to full value-chain development. This approach is intended to absorb surplus crops, reduce waste, and create sustainable employment for the youth. Concurrently, the government is ramping up local tomato production through the distribution of subsidized hybrid seeds and the promotion of dry-season farming with improved irrigation. These interventions, supported by agricultural directors like George Batse, aim to reduce Ghana's dependence on imports and stabilize market prices. The broader strategy for Ghana’s agricultural sector involves a move toward self-sufficiency and industrialization. By bridging the funding gap and investing in both storage and processing, the government aims to transform the current food glut from a logistical crisis into an opportunity for economic growth. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued investment in infrastructure and the successful implementation of irrigation projects to mitigate the challenges faced by local farmers during the dry season.