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.

A side-by-side composite image featuring two men. On the left is a man with long dreadlocks wearing a brown knitted sweater, and on the right is Kofi Adams, the Member of Parliament for Buem, wearing glasses and a black shirt with distinctive colorful geometric patterns.
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Kofi Adams rejects dismissal calls over World Cup visa scandal

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has flatly rejected demands from the Minority in Parliament for his dismissal following a scandal involving failed visa applications for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Adams maintains there is no justification for his removal, asserting that no government funds were compromised and that his ministry was not directly involved in the private arrangements. The Minority has called for both his dismissal and prosecution, alongside the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, over their alleged roles in the controversy. The scandal involves reports that approximately 90 individuals paid between $10,000 and $15,000 each to secure travel documents for the tournament, yet only five applicants were successful. Minister Adams has accused a private entity, TRIBE Culture Fest, of defrauding these applicants of an estimated $623,000. While the CEO of TRIBE, Nana Boateng Gyimah, has insisted the organization only dealt with government agencies, the matter has been referred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a full inquiry. Providing a timeline of the events, Adams explained that he only became aware of the irregularities through a letter from the United States Embassy dated May 19. He emphasized that the ministry had previously issued warnings to the public against using intermediaries for visa assistance. According to the Minister, many Ghanaians ignored these cautions and engaged in private transactions without the ministry's knowledge, often with individuals misrepresenting their influence over the application process. In response to the growing controversy, President John Mahama has already directed the Director-General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, to step aside while police investigations proceed. While the executive probe continues, Adams remains firm that accountability should rest with the private entities involved and individuals who disregarded official travel protocols, rather than the leadership of the Sports Ministry.

A composite image featuring headshots of two prominent Ghanaian political figures. On the left is Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and on the right is Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader in Parliament for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
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Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s GH₵15m defamation suit dismissed by court

The High Court in Accra has dismissed a GH₵15 million defamation lawsuit filed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin against Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board. On October 14, 2026, the court ruled that the writ of summons and statement of claim were fundamentally defective because they failed to provide specific particulars of the alleged defamatory remarks. The ruling, based on procedural grounds rather than the merits of the case, annulled the action originally filed by Afenyo-Markin on August 24, 2026. Presiding over General Jurisdiction 1, the court found that the Minority Leader’s legal team failed to comply with mandatory requirements under Order 57 (Rule 2) of the High Court Civil Procedure Rules. This rule requires a plaintiff in a libel action to endorse the specific words complained of in the writ. Lawyers for Sammy Gyamfi had argued that the suit was incompetent due to these procedural errors. Consequently, the court set aside the entire process without making an order regarding costs, effectively ending the current legal proceedings under the defective writ. The legal dispute originated from comments made by Mr. Gyamfi during an August 2026 broadcast of JoyNews’ Newsfile. During a debate regarding the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme—which Gyamfi alleged had incurred losses of approximately US$1.7 billion—he reportedly labeled Afenyo-Markin an "extortionist." In response, the Minority Leader sought GH₵15 million in damages, a public apology, and a retraction, asserting that the claims were false and maliciously intended to damage his reputation. Following the ruling, legal representatives for Afenyo-Markin expressed a firm determination to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion. They accused Mr. Gyamfi’s team of using "procedural roadblocks" and technicalities to avoid addressing the substance of the defamation claims. While the court’s decision allows the Minority Leader the option to refile a corrected suit, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged both parties to seek an amicable resolution. Kpebu suggested that prolonged litigation between key political figures diverts national focus from critical development issues and government scrutiny.

President John Dramani Mahama is seated among traditional Ghanaian rulers and other dignitaries at a formal indoor event. The gathering highlights a significant cultural and political intersection, with attendees dressed in elaborate Kente and Adinkra textiles under blue stage lighting.
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John Mahama calls for youth mentorship at 10th Assemblies of God Congress

President John Dramani Mahama opened the 10th Triennial World Assemblies of God Congress in Accra on October 14, 2026, urging the Christian community to prioritize the mentorship of the younger generation. The event, held under the theme ‘Commissioned: One Mandate, Every Nation,’ marks a historic milestone as the first time in the fellowship's 115-year history that the congress has been hosted on African soil. Speaking to over 10,000 delegates from approximately 100 countries, the President emphasized the necessity of providing guidance to youth who are currently navigating modern social pressures and the complexities of the digital age. During his address, the President challenged the church to translate spiritual energy into practical community service and nation-building. He urged delegates to return to their communities with actionable plans to support local schools, health ministries, and the vulnerable. Highlighting the role of the church as a safe haven, he noted that faith must be manifested through acts of compassion and fairness. In recognition of his leadership and personal commitment to the faith, President Mahama was presented with the Global Leadership Excellence and Trailblazer Award during the ceremony. Reaffirming his constitutional duty, President Mahama stressed his commitment to serving all Ghanaians regardless of their religious affiliations. He described Ghana’s religious diversity as a vital national asset and called for continued peaceful coexistence between different faiths. While acknowledging that his inclusive approach may occasionally raise questions among some religious leaders, he maintained that leadership must remain impartial and humble to ensure that the voices of marginalized groups are heard and respected. The President also used the platform to advocate for the greater recognition of women’s contributions within both the church and the state. He praised the wisdom and service of women leaders, describing their role as essential to sustainable development. The congress, which runs through October 16, also welcomed international dignitaries including former Malawian President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera. Government officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, were present to signal the state's full support for the international gathering. Reflecting on his personal connection to the Assemblies of God, President Mahama reminded those in public office that their religious beliefs should enhance their integrity and dedication to service. He called on religious institutions to maintain their independence while remaining steadfast in addressing social injustices. Led by Global Chairman Rev. Dominic Yeo and General Superintendent Rev. Stephen Wengam, the congress is expected to strengthen global Christian missions and foster a renewed sense of responsibility toward community development and social justice.

President John Mahama is pictured presenting a scroll adorned with the colors of the Ghana flag to a woman during a formal ceremony. Both individuals are shaking hands in front of a wood-paneled wall, indicating an official government appointment or state function.
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NPP urges Mahama to rescind Emelia Afi Agbenyo’s EC appointment

President John Mahama has sworn in Emelia Afi Agbenyo and Dr. Joseph Kwaku Asamoah as Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC), triggering an immediate protest from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). The NPP has formally called for the withdrawal of Agbenyo’s appointment, alleging that her history as an active campaigner for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) fundamentally compromises her impartiality. The opposition warns that her presence on the commission undermines public confidence in the electoral system as the country prepares for the 2028 general elections. NPP National Communications Director Dennis Miracles Aboagye argued that Agbenyo’s ties to the ruling party are well-documented, claiming that no current commissioner has as much visible evidence of partisan bias. The NPP criticized the Council of State for failing to identify these connections during the vetting process and suggested that legal action may be taken to challenge the appointment. The party maintains that the independence of the EC is at risk if individuals with deep political loyalties are permitted to oversee national polls, particularly during high-stakes disputes between the major parties. In response, government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu defended the appointments as a necessary ‘reset’ to correct a partisan imbalance he claims was established by the previous administration. Ofosu argued that the EC had been ‘packed’ with NPP-aligned members during the presidency of Nana Akufo-Addo, and that Agbenyo’s appointment is intended to ‘tilt the balance’ back toward a more representative commission. While acknowledging Agbenyo’s NDC associations, Ofosu asserted that she would discharge her duties professionally, accusing the NPP of double standards for supporting similar partisan appointments in the past. The controversy has sparked broader calls for constitutional reform from civil society and other political actors. Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, a fellow at CDD-Ghana, warned that without meaningful changes to the appointment process, the cycle of partisan placements in independent bodies will persist under every change of government. He advocated for the use of an ‘Akufo-Addo test’—referencing standards of integrity and fairness once championed by the former president—to evaluate EC officials. Additionally, the Convention People’s Party (CPP) condemned the government’s justification for the appointment, calling for a bipartisan inquiry to protect the commission’s credibility. As the new deputies assume their roles, experts such as Professor Joseph Atsu Ayee have urged them to focus on rebuilding the EC’s public image and maintaining a healthy relationship with all political parties through the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC). Election Watch Ghana has also called for a more transparent, merit-based selection process to insulate the commission from executive influence. The resolution of this dispute is seen as critical for ensuring that the EC remains a trusted arbiter of Ghana’s democratic processes ahead of future electoral cycles.

Preaching ban on commercial vehicles ‘dangerous and ungodly’ — Minister Ike
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Minister Ike condemns government ban on preaching in public transport

Ghanaian gospel musician Minister Ike has expressed strong opposition to the government's enforcement of regulations prohibiting preaching within commercial vehicles. Speaking in a recent interview with Hot 93.9FM, the artist described the move as "ungodly" and "dangerous," warning that the ban could have significant spiritual repercussions for the nation and its travelers. Minister Ike contended that the presence of evangelists on public transport provides a layer of divine protection for passengers. By removing these preachers, he argued, the government is effectively stripping away this spiritual shield, which he believes will lead to an increase in road accidents. He emphasized that the word of God shared during commutes serves as a form of intercession that keeps travelers safe from harm. In a more controversial claim, the gospel artist suggested that the prohibition is linked to a hidden agenda ahead of the upcoming national elections. He alleged that the move could be part of a strategy to facilitate spiritual rituals. Specifically, he claimed that the potential rise in road fatalities resulting from the lack of divine protection might be intended to provide "blood" for political rituals aimed at helping the current administration retain power. These remarks come as the government seeks to implement stricter public transport standards intended to ensure passenger comfort and regulate noise levels in commercial vehicles. Minister Ike's critique coincides with the launch of his new musical project, a single titled Nyame Aseda featuring Great Ampong, which was scheduled for release on Monday, October 19, 2026. The government has yet to issue a formal response to the artist's spiritual and political allegations regarding the transport policy.

Public Accounts Committee directs UGMC to fix procurement infractions
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Public Accounts Committee directs UGMC to fix procurement infractions

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has ordered the management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) to immediately resolve procurement irregularities identified in the 2025 Auditor-General’s Report. During a committee session held on October 13, 2026, PAC Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare expressed concern over the multiple infractions cited in the report, which suggest a failure to adhere to established public procurement protocols. The directive is part of the committee's broader mandate to ensure that state institutions remain transparent and accountable in their financial dealings. To address these systemic issues, Osei-Asare urged the UGMC management to fully adopt the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS). She emphasized that transitioning to this digital platform is essential for ensuring compliance with national regulations and minimizing the risk of future irregularities. The committee noted that the current procurement lapses at the medical facility require urgent administrative intervention to prevent the mismanagement of public funds and resources. In addition to the financial concerns, the PAC chairperson pointed to a notable decline in service standards at the medical centre. Osei-Asare called upon the Chief Executive Officer of the UGMC to implement enhanced quality healthcare protocols to restore the facility's reputation. She highlighted that patients must receive care that is commensurate with the costs they incur, stressing that the facility's management has a responsibility to maintain high-tier service delivery as one of the country's leading medical institutions. The committee's findings underscore the importance of aligning medical administration with both financial laws and patient care expectations. Moving forward, the UGMC management is expected to provide updates on their progress in resolving the 2025 infractions and improving operational efficiency. The PAC's intervention serves as a reminder to all state-owned enterprises that procurement transparency and service quality are under strict parliamentary oversight.

Hopeson Adorye admits NPP created fake Charlotte Osei campaign flyer
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Hopeson Adorye admits NPP created fake Charlotte Osei campaign flyer

Hopeson Adorye, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has publicly admitted that the party orchestrated a misinformation campaign against former Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Charlotte Osei. Speaking on the matter, Adorye revealed that members of the NPP manufactured a fraudulent campaign flyer designed to falsely link Osei to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) shortly after her appointment to the commission in 2015. The admission confirms that the visual materials circulated at the time were part of a coordinated effort to undermine her professional neutrality and public standing. The disclosure highlights a deliberate and targeted strategy by certain NPP elements to challenge the legitimacy of Osei’s leadership at the Electoral Commission. According to Adorye, the fake flyer portrayed Osei as a parliamentary candidate for the NDC, a move specifically intended to cast doubt on her impartiality as the head of the nation's election management body. This campaign took place during the first tenure of President John Dramani Mahama, who was recently inaugurated for a second, non-consecutive term on 7 January 2025. Adorye's admission suggests that the fabrication was a key component of a broader political maneuver to weaken public trust in the Electoral Commission ahead of the 2016 general elections. By creating the impression that the EC Chairperson held partisan allegiances, the orchestrators sought to build a narrative of bias that would favor their political interests. The revelation validates long-standing claims by Osei's supporters that she was the victim of a calculated smear campaign intended to disrupt her work and reputation during a critical election cycle. This revelation comes at a significant moment as the country reflects on the integrity of its democratic institutions and the evolving nature of political communication. While the events described occurred nearly a decade ago, the confirmation of such deceptive tactics by a party insider provides a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes operations of political machinery in Ghana. The admission raises critical questions about the ethical boundaries of political campaigning and the ongoing need to protect independent state officials from malicious partisan attacks to ensure the stability of the nation's democratic processes.

Artisanal fishers urge John Mahama to revoke offshore gold exploration licenses
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Artisanal fishers urge John Mahama to revoke offshore gold exploration licenses

Artisanal fishers in Ghana have formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to fully revoke offshore gold exploration licenses granted to Gold Coast GRC Ghana Ltd. While the fishing communities expressed appreciation for the recent suspension of these activities, they maintain that only a permanent revocation can safeguard the marine environment and protect the livelihoods of coastal populations. The groups argue that the licenses were issued without sufficient consultation and represent a significant risk to the future of the fishing industry. The communities outlined several environmental and economic concerns, warning that mineral exploration and mining would lead to the destruction of sensitive marine ecosystems. They contend that industrial activities would turn the ocean into a barren environment, threatening national food security and the cultural heritage of fishing towns that have relied on the sea for generations. The fishers emphasized that the ocean must be viewed as a vital, living ecosystem that requires protection from exploitative industrial processes. In their appeal to the presidency, the fishers presented five key demands aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability. These include the implementation of robust protective measures for essential fishing grounds and the formal inclusion of artisanal fishers in decision-making processes regarding maritime resources. They insist that their voices must be heard in any policy decisions that impact the waters they navigate, ensuring that industrial development does not come at the expense of traditional livelihoods. The demand highlights the complex balance between Ghana's extractive sector ambitions and the preservation of its traditional economic foundations. As the Mahama administration reviews the petition, the response will be closely watched by environmentalists and coastal communities alike. The fishers remain firm in their commitment to preserving the ocean for both present and future generations, asserting that the ecological health of the coastline is non-negotiable.

Edmund Amarkwei FoEdmund Amarkwei Foley, Executive Director, Legal Aid Commission, addressing the media ley, Executive Director, Legal Aid Commission, addressing the media
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Legal Aid Commission launches pilot legal services at lorry stations

The Legal Aid Commission (LAC) has announced a new initiative to bring legal services directly to citizens by piloting consultations at selected markets and lorry stations across the country. Executive Director Edmund Amarkwei Foley unveiled the program during the launch of the 2026 Legal Aid Week in Accra, explaining that the move is designed to assist traders and vulnerable individuals who often face significant barriers when attempting to access the formal justice system. By moving services out of traditional office settings and into high-traffic public spaces, the Commission hopes to provide immediate legal support to those who need it most. During the launch, Justice Samuel Adibu Asiedu emphasized the critical importance of addressing economic barriers that prevent many Ghanaians from seeking legal redress. He noted that the distance to regional offices and the perceived complexity of the legal process often deter the poor and marginalized. The new pilot program aims to bridge this gap, offering a more accessible entry point for citizens to receive professional guidance on various legal matters. The initiative also seeks to demystify legal processes for the informal sector, ensuring that traders are aware of their rights and the protections available to them. The Commission currently faces several operational challenges, including a notable shortage of legal staff and a limited geographical footprint. At present, the LAC only has a presence in 10 out of Ghana's 16 regions, leaving many underserved populations without direct access to state-sponsored legal aid. To address these deficiencies, the Commission plans to collaborate with Parliament to secure improved funding and structural support. There are also ongoing efforts to enhance participation among private legal practitioners to supplement the work of the Commission’s permanent staff and broaden the reach of the new outreach program. As the pilot phase begins, the LAC will monitor the effectiveness of these market-based consultations to determine how they can be scaled nationally. This shift towards a community-based approach reflects a broader commitment to judicial reform and the decentralization of state services. By meeting citizens in their places of work and travel, the Commission aims to foster a more inclusive justice system that prioritizes the needs of the vulnerable and ensures that economic status is not a barrier to exercising legal rights in Ghana.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco sits in a formal meeting room, engaging in conversation with a woman. Both individuals are dressed in traditional light blue djellabas, with the King wearing a signature red fez, set against a backdrop of ornate red and gold decor.
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Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri leads Morocco's first female-headed government

Morocco’s centrist Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) has secured a coalition agreement with three other political groups to form a new government. This development follows last month's parliamentary elections, where the party emerged with a significant mandate. PAM leader Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is now set to make history as the country’s first female head of government, marking a transformative moment for Moroccan politics. The new coalition includes moderate socialist parties and the nationalist Istiqlal party, bringing together a combined total of 207 seats in the Moroccan parliament. This comfortably exceeds the 198-seat threshold required to command a majority. By aligning with these diverse political factions, the PAM aims to provide a stable administration capable of addressing the socioeconomic challenges currently facing the North African nation. Addressing the needs of Morocco's younger population is a primary focus for the incoming administration. The coalition has pledged to prioritize job creation to combat youth unemployment, alongside improvements in education and health services. These areas have been central to recent societal grievances, and the new government’s performance is expected to be measured by its ability to deliver tangible results in these critical sectors. Despite the shift in leadership and the historic nature of El Mansouri’s appointment, analysts suggest that Morocco’s overarching policy direction is unlikely to undergo radical changes. The Moroccan King continues to hold substantial powers in governance, including oversight of key strategic decisions. Consequently, the coalition is expected to operate within the established framework of the monarchy while seeking to implement its promised social and economic reforms.

A close-up photograph of Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking during a formal meeting. He is wearing a navy blue suit and a maroon tie, positioned behind a microphone with a formal background featuring gold-trimmed furniture.
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Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner propose Russian diesel deal to Ukraine

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, acting as envoys for U.S. President Donald Trump, held talks with Ukrainian officials in Miami to discuss a proposal involving Russian diesel exports. The meeting centered on using the energy deal as a diplomatic lever to encourage Moscow to return to the negotiating table to end the ongoing conflict. While the U.S. side views the proposal as a means to "soften" President Vladimir Putin's stance, the initiative has met with significant pushback from the Ukrainian delegation and sparked debate among American lawmakers. The proposed agreement would allow for the export of Russian diesel, a move President Trump has defended as a potential benefit for U.S. energy prices. However, Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have expressed deep skepticism, characterizing the plan as a concession that could provide financial support to Russia's military operations without securing meaningful commitments from the Kremlin. The atmosphere of the discussions was reportedly tense, with Zelenskyy criticizing the approach and Trump suggesting that a change in Ukrainian leadership might be necessary to resolve the conflict. Beyond energy, the Miami meeting touched on security guarantees for Ukraine. The Ukrainian side remains wary that the U.S. approach might appease Russia without providing the robust protections Ukraine requires. Furthermore, the envoys discussed Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries, which Trump claimed were hindering diplomatic efforts, though experts suggest these military actions are a direct response to broader regional conflicts. While no formal agreements were reached during the session, Ukraine indicated a potential openness to an energy-focused ceasefire if Russia demonstrates a reciprocal commitment. The talks highlight a growing rift in diplomatic strategy between the Trump administration and the Ukrainian government. As U.S. lawmakers raise concerns about the ethics of an energy deal that could fund the Russian war machine, the path toward a negotiated settlement remains fraught with obstacles. The outcome of these preliminary discussions suggests that while the U.S. is exploring unconventional economic avenues to end the war, the fundamental issues of security and sovereignty continue to be the primary sticking points for the Ukrainian leadership.

Fifi Fiavi Kwetey — General Secretary, NDC
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NDC limits internal campaign posters to five feet by eight feet

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has introduced strict new regulations governing the size of campaign materials for aspirants across all levels of the party's internal structure. In a directive issued by the Functional Executive Committee (FEC), the party announced that all campaign posters and banners must now adhere to a maximum size of five feet in width and eight feet in height. This move comes as the NDC continues its ongoing national reorganization process, aimed at streamlining operations and preparing for future electoral cycles. The Functional Executive Committee explained that these guidelines are essential for maintaining order and discipline within the party ranks. By standardizing the physical dimensions of campaign materials, the NDC aims to ensure a fair playing field for all candidates, preventing any individual from overwhelming others through excessive or extravagant displays. The party leadership emphasized its commitment to modesty and restraint, noting that the new rules align with the public’s expectations for responsible political engagement and sensitivity to community aesthetics. Aspirants who have already deployed materials exceeding these new dimensions have been granted a five-day grace period to adjust or remove their displays to meet the standards. The party has warned that failure to comply with these regulations during this reorganization phase could lead to disciplinary action against the offending members. By enforcing these limits, the NDC leadership seeks to focus the internal process on substantive engagement and party unity rather than competitive visual dominance.