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.

Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC's Performance and Reveals Deep Ties to Kennedy Agyapong Amid NPP Unity Drive
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Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC's Performance and Reveals Deep Ties to Kennedy Agyapong Amid NPP Unity Drive

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has delivered a scathing assessment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s first year in office, asserting that the administration has failed to make a "real impact" on the lives of Ghanaians. Speaking in a series of recent engagements, Afenyo-Markin questioned the absence of significant development projects and highlighted the plight of contractors who remain unpaid despite executing public works through bank loans. He dismissed the government's reliance on positive macroeconomic indicators, arguing that statistics are meaningless if they do not translate into tangible improvements for citizens, such as cocoa farmers and the urban poor. Furthermore, he characterized the proposed 24-hour economy policy as more of a campaign slogan than a viable policy, criticizing the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill as an unnecessary bureaucratic expansion that risks misusing public resources. Amidst these critiques, the Minority Leader has intensified calls for the resignation of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Afenyo-Markin clarified that these demands are rooted in "policy failures"—specifically regarding inconsistencies in a controversial lithium mining agreement—rather than personal animosity. He emphasized that the Minority’s role is to ensure accountability and restore public trust in the management of Ghana's mineral resources. Within Parliament, Afenyo-Markin credited his leadership success to his "backbone" team of whips, praising Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh and deputies Habib Iddrisu and Jerry Ahmed Shaib for their organizational and advocacy strengths. He reiterated a commitment to a "balanced opposition" strategy that maintains rigorous government scrutiny without obstructing essential parliamentary business. On the internal front of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Afenyo-Markin expressed strong support for flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia’s post-primary unity drive, urging members to move past internal grievances to focus on the 2028 elections. This call for cohesion was mirrored during strategic meetings between the Minority Caucus and TESCON executives, where student leaders were encouraged to uphold the party's centre-right values. Additionally, Afenyo-Markin made headlines by revealing a deep personal bond with former MP Kennedy Agyapong, disclosing that Agyapong had once provided him with $5 million to revive his business based solely on trust. He attributed Agyapong’s overwhelming success in the Effutu primaries to years of genuine community support in Winneba and announced plans to construct an ICT facility in Agyapong’s honor. As the political atmosphere intensifies, the government is also navigating sensitive security concerns following a terrorist attack in northern Burkina Faso that claimed the lives of 18 Ghanaian traders. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has appealed to the public to stop circulating graphic images of the victims to avoid causing further trauma to the grieving families. These converging issues of economic performance, parliamentary accountability, and internal party dynamics set the stage for a high-stakes political season as Ghana moves toward its next major electoral cycle, with the Minority signaling it will remain a vigilant watchdog over both the executive and the nation’s resources.

Political Restructuring and Leadership Transitions: NDC’s Strategic Reforms Amidst South African Turmoil and Global Diplomatic Shifts
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Political Restructuring and Leadership Transitions: NDC’s Strategic Reforms Amidst South African Turmoil and Global Diplomatic Shifts

The landscape of African and international politics is witnessing a significant period of restructuring and accountability. In Ghana, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has embarked on a rigorous internal reform process aimed at broadening its base and ensuring effective governance. General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey announced a strategic 'bigger tent' membership drive to attract youth and previously inactive voters ahead of branch elections. Central to this reform is a new policy requiring government appointees to resign their positions six months prior to contesting internal party elections. This mandate, according to Kwetey, is designed to prevent the concentration of power and ensure that high-level officials, such as Ministers and CEOs, do not neglect their state responsibilities for party politics. The party’s growth strategy emphasizes discipline and the fulfillment of promises as the primary drivers for its increasing public appeal. While Ghana focuses on internal party stability, South Africa’s political landscape is in a state of flux. The Democratic Alliance (DA), the nation's second-largest party, is facing a leadership crisis following the resignation of John Steenhuisen. Steenhuisen’s departure comes amidst a series of scandals, including allegations of personal financial mismanagement and intense criticism over his handling of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the agricultural sector. As the DA navigates its new role in a coalition government with the African National Congress (ANC) following the 2024 elections, internal racial tensions have resurfaced. Analysts suggest that the upcoming leadership contest between candidates such as Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis will test the party's ability to maintain its identity while appealing to a diverse electorate. International relations are also shifting as the United States navigates internal and external political pressures. Leo Brent Bozell III, President Trump’s newly appointed ambassador to South Africa, has arrived in Pretoria with a mandate to address strained ties, specifically regarding South Africa’s genocide case against Israel and its refugee programs. Simultaneously, in the U.S., former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has accused the Trump administration of a 'cover-up' regarding files related to Jeffrey Epstein, demanding greater transparency through Congressional testimony. This climate of activism extends to the sporting world, where tennis star Coco Gauff has joined other athletes in condemning divisive immigration policies and police actions, citing the influence of her grandmother’s civil rights legacy in her decision to speak out on political matters. Back in Ghana, the intersection of politics and public welfare is under scrutiny following the tragic death of 29-year-old engineer Charles Amissah. His death, caused by the 'no-bed syndrome' after being denied emergency care at three major hospitals, has prompted an investigation by the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) and a separate probe by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh. This incident has accelerated calls for a real-time bed monitoring system and broader healthcare reforms. Additionally, the nation mourns the passing of Sergeant Peter Tasiri Azongo, a pivotal figure in the June 4, 1979 uprising who was instrumental in the release of Jerry John Rawlings. His death marks the end of an era for a generation that shaped Ghana’s modern political history, with his family currently seeking a state burial to honor his contributions to the country's socio-political transformation.

Government Scales Up Economic Empowerment through National Apprenticeship Scheme and Strategic Agribusiness Partnerships
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Government Scales Up Economic Empowerment through National Apprenticeship Scheme and Strategic Agribusiness Partnerships

The Government of Ghana has launched a series of multi-sectoral initiatives aimed at tackling youth unemployment, enhancing food security, and modernizing the national economy. Central to these efforts is the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), which is currently piloting in the Ashanti Region with the goal of benefiting approximately 2,000 youth. Ashanti Regional Coordinator Patrick Opoku Fofie announced that the program provides structured vocational training, financial support, and certification. Under the pilot phase, 400 master craft persons (MCPs) are being engaged to train five apprentices each, with modern tools provided to ensure high-quality skill acquisition. To ensure fiscal integrity, the government has established a transparent payment system where training fees and allowances are processed directly through the Bank of Ghana to beneficiaries' accounts, a move praised by local officials including Atwima Kwanwoma District Chief Executive, Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah. Complementing the vocational training drive is a strategic focus on industrializing the agricultural sector through international cooperation. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, recently met with Spanish Ambassador Angel Lossada Torres-Quevedo and executives from GB Foods Africa to solidify a major tomato cultivation project. GB Foods has announced plans to cultivate 6,000 acres in the Afram Plains, a project expected to double local yields from 20 to 40 tonnes per acre. This initiative is designed to bolster food security, reduce the nation's reliance on imports, and serve as a cornerstone for Ghana’s broader industrialization strategy by ensuring a steady supply of local raw materials for processing. In tandem with industrial and vocational efforts, the government is intensifying its engagement on the '24-Hour Economy' initiative. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Deputy Minister for Health and MP for Essikado-Ketan, recently held consultations with traders at the Kojokrom Market to integrate their feedback into the policy. The initiative, championed by President John Dramani Mahama, seeks to expand economic activity by extending trading hours, improving security, and enhancing utility access to create sustainable jobs. Furthermore, the Ghana Scholarship Authority is reforming educational access, recently conducting a merit-based competitive examination for 3,810 candidates vying for the Hungarian Stipendium scholarship. In collaboration with WAEC, this exercise aims to restore public confidence in government scholarships through transparency and meritocracy. Collectively, these programs represent a comprehensive approach to national development, ranging from grassroots trade empowerment to high-level agribusiness investment and institutional reform. By combining direct youth skills training with structural economic shifts like the 24-hour cycle and large-scale agricultural projects, the government aims to foster a self-reliant economy. The next steps involve the full-scale implementation of the NAP following the pilot phase and the commencement of cultivation in the Afram Plains, both of which are expected to provide immediate economic relief and long-term professional opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians.

Ghana Intensifies Regional Security and International Cooperation After Tragic Terror Attack on Traders
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Ghana Intensifies Regional Security and International Cooperation After Tragic Terror Attack on Traders

Ghana is mourning the loss of 18 citizens following a brutal terrorist attack in northern Burkina Faso, an incident that has prompted the government to ramp up international security collaborations. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has officially confirmed the deaths of the traders—comprising 10 men and eight women—who were caught in a confrontation between extremists and armed forces near Titao. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, officials are emphasizing a shift toward more robust counter-terrorism frameworks and enhanced intelligence-sharing with regional and international partners to prevent future incursions. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, attributed to the Islamist militant group JNIM, Minister Mubarak issued a passionate plea to the public to cease the circulation of graphic images and videos of the victims. Highlighting the severe trauma such footage inflicts on grieving families, the Minister noted that some victims were burnt beyond recognition, making identification a delicate process involving DNA sampling. Efforts are currently underway to evacuate survivors and provide medical treatment in Ouagadougou. Concurrently, Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for a significant strengthening of Ghana’s counter-extremism framework, urging deeper regional intelligence cooperation to protect traders operating across the volatile Sahel corridor. Beyond immediate crisis management, the Ministry of the Interior has initiated a series of high-level diplomatic engagements to fortify national security against evolving transnational threats. In Accra, Minister Mubarak met with a senior Lebanese delegation, including Consul General Ali Samih Jaafar and Deputy Director Morshed El Hajj Sleiman, to develop joint strategies against cyber fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering. Similarly, a visit to Ankara for talks with Turkish counterpart Mustafa wiftwi saw the expansion of cooperation to include emergency response systems, disaster management, and migration control. These engagements signal Ghana’s intent to build a multifaceted defense against organized crime and terrorism through international knowledge-sharing. The security challenges facing Ghana are mirrored across the West African sub-region, where international intervention continues to play a critical role. In neighboring Nigeria, the arrival of 100 U.S. military personnel—with 200 more expected—underscores the intensity of the fight against Islamist insurgents that threaten the stability of the entire region. These developments highlight the interconnected nature of security in West Africa. For Ghana, the tragic loss of its citizens in Burkina Faso serves as a catalyst for a more proactive security policy and a modernized apparatus aimed at safeguarding both domestic stability and the safety of its nationals working abroad.

President Mahama to Present Historic UN Resolution on Slave Trade Amidst Rallies for Economic Sovereignty
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President Mahama to Present Historic UN Resolution on Slave Trade Amidst Rallies for Economic Sovereignty

President John Dramani Mahama is set to present a landmark resolution to the United Nations General Assembly in March 2025, seeking global recognition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade as a grave crime against humanity. Speaking during the 39th Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), where he serves as the Champion for Justice and Reparations, the President emphasized the moral and legal imperatives of reparatory justice. The AU has already adopted the draft resolution, marking a significant step in Africa’s collective quest to address the long-standing legacies of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid. This diplomatic push is a central pillar of the AU's declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Justice for Africans through Reparations." To support this global agenda, President Mahama urged AU member states to establish national reparations commissions and engage in formal dialogues with historical perpetrator nations. He highlighted that the goal is to reshape global narratives, framing reparations not merely as financial transfers but as essential tools for justice and sustainable development. This effort builds on a year of intensive engagement and structural advancements within the AU, including the establishment of expert committees and the Sovereign Negotiators Certification Programme. The upcoming UN presentation is viewed as a pivotal moment for the continent to secure a Decade of Reparations and redress historical injustices on a global scale. Beyond historical justice, Mahama used the AU Summit to rally support for the "Accra Reset Initiative," a strategic framework designed to align Africa’s finance, health, trade, and technology sectors. In a bold move toward economic sovereignty, the President announced plans to end foreign cocoa financing by 2030, proposing that Ghana raise domestic bonds in Cedis to purchase cocoa directly from farmers. This reform aims to eliminate exploitative financing structures while boosting local processing and job creation. Additionally, Mahama pledged to halt the export of raw mineral ores by 2030, stressing the need for local value addition to meet the aspirations of Africa’s youth and mitigate migration pressures. The President’s advocacy on the global stage has been mirrored by a surge in national pride at home, recently epitomized by the "fugu fight." An instance of Mahama wearing the traditional Ghanaian smock during a visit to Zambia ignited a viral cultural celebration, transforming online misunderstandings into a powerful display of national unity. This movement has not only promoted Ghanaian heritage but has also yielded economic dividends for local weavers and the fashion industry. Mahama’s message remains consistent: whether through diplomatic resolutions at the UN or the promotion of cultural identity, unified collective action is the primary engine for overcoming poverty and achieving national progress.

Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC’s First Year Performance, Navigates NPP Unity and Parliamentary Accountability
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Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC’s First Year Performance, Navigates NPP Unity and Parliamentary Accountability

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has issued a comprehensive critique of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, asserting that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration has failed to deliver tangible results after one year in office. During a recent interview on Channel One TV, Afenyo-Markin questioned the absence of significant development projects and highlighted the plight of unpaid contractors, many of whom have defaulted on bank loans used to fund public works. He argued that the government’s reliance on positive macroeconomic indicators is disconnected from the daily realities of Ghanaians, emphasizing that statistics remain meaningless if they do not translate into improved living conditions and better livelihoods for the populace. Beyond performance critiques, the Minority Leader addressed the internal dynamics of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) following its recent presidential primaries. He commended the newly elected flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his post-primary unity drive and his calls for reconciliation during a National Thanksgiving Service. Afenyo-Markin urged party members to move past internal divisions and focus on collective progress ahead of the 2028 general elections. This sentiment was echoed in a strategic meeting between the Minority Caucus and executives of the Tertiary Education Confederacy (TESCON), where student leaders were encouraged to understand the party's centre-right legacy and mobilize at the grassroots level. In a candid reflection on his personal and political ties, Afenyo-Markin also clarified his relationship with former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong. He revealed that Agyapong once provided him with a $5 million investment for his business based solely on trust and friendship, without a formal agreement. Addressing speculation regarding Agyapong’s overwhelming victory in the Effutu constituency during the NPP primaries, the Minority Leader dismissed claims of his personal influence, instead attributing the result to Agyapong’s years of community support and local initiatives. He further announced plans to establish an ICT facility named in honor of Agyapong to celebrate their long-standing bond. Within the chamber, Afenyo-Markin emphasized a philosophy of "balanced opposition," aiming to hold the government accountable without obstructing parliamentary business. He lauded his whip team—Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Habib Iddrisu, and Jerry Ahmed Shaib—as the essential backbone of the caucus's effectiveness. However, this commitment to oversight has involved sharp demands for accountability, including calls for the resignation of Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah over policy failures related to a controversial lithium mining agreement. Afenyo-Markin insisted that the Minority’s stance is rooted in ministerial responsibility and the need to restore public trust in the management of Ghana’s mineral resources. Looking toward future policy debates, the Minority Leader characterized the government’s proposed "24-Hour Economy" as a campaign slogan rather than a robust policy, criticizing the creation of a new bureaucracy through the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill. Along with other members like Bekwai MP Ralph Poku Adusei, he warned that such structures might lead to a waste of public resources and conflicts of interest. As the administration enters its second year, the Minority Caucus remains focused on rigorous scrutiny of the cocoa sector, taxation, and economic management, setting the stage for a highly contested political environment leading into the next election cycle.

EPA Reza and Pahlavi and his wife wave to crowds on stage. They appear to be standing behind a glass screen. A red, green and white flag can be seen on the left.
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Global Political Volatility: Crackdowns on Dissent and Transparency Scandals Shape International Landscape

The international political landscape is facing a period of intense volatility as reports emerge of state-sponsored assassinations, mass global protests, and systemic crackdowns on opposition leaders. UK and European officials have recently concluded that Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, who collapsed in a Siberian penal colony after three years of imprisonment, was murdered using epibatidine—a rare and potent toxin derived from South American poison dart frogs. While the Kremlin has dismissed these findings as propaganda, Western officials assert that only the Russian state possessed the means to deploy such a sophisticated biological weapon, further straining relations between Moscow and the international community. Simultaneously, the struggle for democratic representation is intensifying across the Middle East and North Africa. In Tunisia, police recently detained Olfa Hamdi, leader of the Third Republic party and a vocal critic of President Kais Saied, upon her arrival at the airport. This arrest is seen by human rights advocates as a continuation of a broader crackdown on dissent that began in 2021. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Munich, Los Angeles, and Toronto following a call for a "global day of action" by Reza Pahlavi. These protests against the Iranian government highlight the growing toll of civil unrest, with activists reporting over 6,800 fatalities linked to the ongoing struggle for economic and political freedom in Iran. In the United States, government agencies are facing sharp criticism over transparency and the rule of law. The Department of Justice (DoJ) is under fire from lawmakers, including Representative Thomas Massie, who argue that the recent release of the Epstein files was inadequate and lacked critical internal memos. Although the files mentioned high-profile figures like Donald Trump and Bill Gates without implying wrongdoing, critics claim the DoJ is obfuscating details to protect public figures. This controversy coincides with reports of a secret operation by the Trump administration on January 14, where nine individuals were deported to Cameroon despite holding U.S. court protections. The deportees were reportedly kept in the dark about their destination until their arrival, raising significant legal and ethical concerns regarding immigration enforcement. These disparate events underscore a troubling global trend of eroding human rights and the increasing use of state power to silence political opposition. Whether through the alleged use of rare toxins, the detention of party leaders, or the lack of transparency in judicial proceedings, the demand for accountability is reaching a fever pitch. As international bodies and global citizens continue to pressure these governments, the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether democratic norms can be upheld or if the shift toward authoritarian tactics will continue to escalate on the world stage.

National Governance Update: NCA Mandates Stricter Telecom Standards as CETAG Ends Strike and Court Rules on KNUST Dispute
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National Governance Update: NCA Mandates Stricter Telecom Standards as CETAG Ends Strike and Court Rules on KNUST Dispute

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has launched a significant overhaul of mobile service standards, mandating stricter performance benchmarks for network operators across Ghana to enhance consumer experience. This regulatory shift coincides with a major breakthrough in the education sector, as the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) officially ended its months-long strike on February 16, 2026. Together, these developments signal a period of intensified governmental and administrative activity aimed at improving public service delivery and resolving long-standing institutional disputes. Under the new NCA Quality of Service (QoS) indicators, mobile network operators (MNOs) must now provide a minimum 3G data download speed of 1 Mbps and ensure that SMS messages are delivered within five seconds with a 98% success rate. The authority has also slashed the allowable call drop rate from 3% to less than 1%, while requiring a call connection success rate of over 95%. Crucially, the directive extends beyond technical metrics; operators are now legally obligated to provide network coverage to every town within all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), moving services beyond traditional district capital hubs. Failure to meet these standards will result in regulatory sanctions. On the social and legal front, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has issued a stern condemnation of alleged digital sexual exploitation involving a Russian national, Yaytseslav. The suspect is accused of secretly recording and distributing intimate footage of Ghanaian women without their consent, an act the Ministry describes as a criminal breach of cybersecurity laws. In collaboration with international and local law enforcement, the government is pursuing accountability while providing psychosocial support and legal aid to victims through designated helplines, highlighting a growing national focus on digital rights and safety. Other landmark resolutions include a significant ruling by the Court of Appeal in Kumasi, which quashed a directive from the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST that ordered Professor Rexford Assasie Oppong to apologize to colleagues. The court ruled the directive a breach of natural justice and due process. Simultaneously, the resumption of lectures in Colleges of Education follows the government's disbursement of funds for 2022 and 2023 allowances. While CETAG members have returned to classrooms, the National Labour Commission continues to review outstanding issues regarding the reclassification of senior tutors, underscoring a cautious but optimistic return to normalcy in Ghana’s higher education landscape.

Mahama Administration Signals Government Reshuffle Amid Infrastructure Push and Cocoa Sector Stabilization Efforts
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Mahama Administration Signals Government Reshuffle Amid Infrastructure Push and Cocoa Sector Stabilization Efforts

In a significant move to enhance governmental efficiency, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has announced that President John Dramani Mahama is expected to reshuffle his government soon. Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues, Kwetey noted that while the President's first year in office has been commendable, the upcoming adjustments aim to optimize ministerial effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement across various sectors. While a specific timeline for the reshuffle remains unconfirmed, the announcement signals the administration's proactive approach to governance as it moves into its next phase of leadership. Simultaneously, the NDC leadership is intensifying its critique of past economic management, specifically regarding the cocoa sector. National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah recently attributed the current crisis in Ghana's cocoa industry to financial mismanagement by the previous administration. During a tour of Upper Denkyira West, Nketiah revealed that a loan secured for 800,000 tonnes of cocoa resulted in the procurement of only 400,000 tonnes, leading to repayment challenges and the mismanagement of cocoa bonds. He assured stakeholders that the current government is implementing strategic measures to stabilize cocoa financing and restore confidence in the sector, while also addressing local infrastructure concerns such as the stalled Ayanfuri–Dunkwa road project. On the developmental front, the government is making strides in agriculture and education infrastructure. Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, recently launched the ‘Nkoko Nketenkete’ initiative in the Bono East Region, distributing 110,000 birds and significant quantities of feed and medical supplies to local farmers to reduce chicken imports and create jobs. In the Volta Region, Minister James Gunu announced the resumption of construction on the Multi-Purpose Laboratory Complex at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS). The project, which is expected to be completed within two months by the First Sky Group, is set to become the largest of its kind in West Africa, positioning the region as a primary health training hub. Amidst these domestic developments, President Mahama has also been active on the international stage, meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa. The leaders discussed regional security in the Sahel and Mahama’s upcoming role as AU Chair in 2027, with the UN pledging full support for Ghana’s leadership. On the home front, the government has provided updates on the health of its officials; Deputy Minister for Communications Mohammed Adams Sukparu is reportedly in stable condition and recovering well following a recent road accident. These events collectively reflect an administration focused on consolidating internal performance while maintaining a strong presence in regional and international diplomacy.

NPP Sets Sights on 2028: Bawumia and Afenyo-Markin Rally Party Around Unity, Discipline, and Grassroots Resilience
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NPP Sets Sights on 2028: Bawumia and Afenyo-Markin Rally Party Around Unity, Discipline, and Grassroots Resilience

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has signaled a robust start to its preparations for the 2028 general elections, with flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin issuing a clarion call for internal unity and discipline. Speaking at a National Thanksgiving Service held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Dr. Bawumia emphasized that electoral success is not guaranteed and must be earned through hard work and genuine reconciliation. He urged party members to move beyond internal divisions and focus on shared values, asserting that victory in 2028 will require a collective effort rooted in trust and grassroots engagement rather than complacency. Supporting this vision of a unified front, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressed the party faithful with a message of resilience against political pressure. He cautioned members against being deterred by potential intimidation or the threat of arrests, stating that such challenges are often part of the political landscape. Afenyo-Markin urged the rank and file to remain calm and steadfast in their support for Dr. Bawumia, highlighting that discipline and determination are the primary tools needed to enhance the party's electoral prospects. His remarks served as a reminder that the party must maintain its cohesion even in the face of external attempts to destabilize its ranks. Central to the NPP’s strategy for the upcoming election cycle is a renewed focus on grassroots mobilization. Dr. Bawumia recently held engagement sessions to personally thank liaison officers from all 16 regions of Ghana for their pivotal role in the party’s presidential primary. Accompanied by coordinators like Nana John Gyamfi, the flagbearer praised the dedication of these officers in mobilizing support at the local level. This gesture was seen as a significant morale booster, reinforcing the party's commitment to a bottom-up approach where every constituency becomes a battleground for securing the trust of the Ghanaian voter. Beyond the strategic and political maneuvers, the narrative of unity within the party is also being framed through personal connections and cross-party respect. Afenyo-Markin recently shared a poignant moment of reflection following the passing of his close friend and colleague, Naser Toure Mahama, the late MP for Ayawaso East. In a rare personal tribute to Parliament, the Minority Leader spoke of the importance of honoring true friendship and shared values, even across political divides. This emphasis on human connection and integrity reflects a broader push within the NPP to build a political culture that prizes character and reconciliation as much as it does electoral strategy, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive 2028 campaign.

Ghanaian Political Landscape: President Mahama Proposes 'Accra Reset' Amid Rising Domestic Tensions and Global Legal Developments
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Ghanaian Political Landscape: President Mahama Proposes 'Accra Reset' Amid Rising Domestic Tensions and Global Legal Developments

President John Dramani Mahama has intensified his call for African economic sovereignty and transformation during a high-profile state visit to Zambia. Addressing the Zambian National Assembly, Mahama introduced his 'Accra Reset Initiative,' a policy framework designed to stabilize Ghana’s economy by reducing the size of government and curbing inflation. During his address, which touched on the deep historical ties between Ghana and Zambia, Mahama highlighted the urgent need for African nations to maintain control over their natural resources while tackling the persistent challenges of youth unemployment. The visit also served as a platform for diplomatic outreach, with the President introducing First Lady Lordina Mahama to the assembly as part of his mission to foster deeper bilateral cooperation. While the President projects a vision of stability abroad, Ghana faces significant domestic challenges in the security and labor sectors. In the Bawku enclave, a group of police officers has threatened to resign unless they are immediately transferred, citing escalating violence and a lack of adequate protection from the local population. Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka recently briefed Parliament on the crisis, advocating for the deployment of armored vehicles and more robust support for personnel on the front lines. Simultaneously, a coalition of university non-teaching unions has rejected a new retirement directive from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC). The unions have characterized the policy as 'arbitrary and discriminatory,' issuing a two-week ultimatum for its withdrawal to avoid a total shutdown of public universities. Infrastructure and national identity also remain at the forefront of the country's political discourse. Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo has ordered an immediate halt to a private development beneath the Flowerpot Interchange on Spintex Road, citing right-of-way violations and potential obstructions to public infrastructure. This intervention led to an emotional appeal from the developer, Georgina Opoku, who claims she invested heavily after receiving permits that have now been revoked. Meanwhile, a proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport has sparked a debate over Ghana's history. While the government aims to align the facility with modern democratic values, retired Maj-Gen Edwin Sam has defended the legacy of General Kotoka, arguing that his role in the 1966 coup was viewed as heroic by many at the time. On the international front, legal accountability for high-profile figures continues to draw attention across the continent and beyond. In Zambia, the High Court has ordered Dalitso Lungu, son of former President Edgar Lungu, to surrender over $1.3 million in assets—including 79 vehicles and luxury properties—after he failed to prove their lawful acquisition. This drive for transparency mirrors ongoing scrutiny in the United States regarding former President Donald Trump. Recently surfaced FBI documents from 2006 suggest that Trump was aware of Jeffrey Epstein’s misconduct years before his arrest, allegedly telling a Florida police chief that 'everyone' knew of Epstein's behavior. These combined events underscore a global trend toward increased scrutiny of political figures and the legal implications of their past associations.

Ghana Strengthens Economic Framework with New Fiscal Council, Tax Reforms, and Regional Industrial Drives
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Ghana Strengthens Economic Framework with New Fiscal Council, Tax Reforms, and Regional Industrial Drives

The Government of Ghana is moving to solidify its economic independence and fiscal discipline as it prepares for life after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has announced the upcoming establishment of an Independent Fiscal Council, a body designed to provide rigorous financial oversight and advisory support for local decision-making. This move comes as the government reports positive economic indicators, including a significant decrease in inflation to 3.8%. During meetings with French economic officials, the government emphasized that this council will be vital for maintaining long-term stability and fostering international partnerships, particularly with France, which has pledged continued support for Ghana's infrastructure and energy sectors. Parallel to these institutional changes, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is addressing public concerns regarding the transition to a new Value Added Tax (VAT) regime under the VAT Act, 2025 (Act 1151). Responding to fears from the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Traders Association that the shift from a 4% flat rate to a 20% standard VAT would hike consumer prices, the GRA clarified that the new system allows for full deductibility of input VAT. According to the Authority, this change is designed to lower business costs and could even lead to price decreases when properly applied. To ensure a smooth transition, a joint technical team has been formed with the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) to assist businesses with compliance and correct pricing adjustments. Beyond fiscal and tax policy, the government is intensifying its focus on regional industrialization and agriculture to drive job creation. In the Upper East Region, initiatives have been announced to reactivate the Pwalugu Tomato Factory, which includes supplying farmers with high-yield seed varieties to boost production and reduce post-harvest losses. Similarly, in the Central Region, Odeefuo Amoakwa Boadu VIII, President of the Regional House of Chiefs, has voiced strong support for the government’s "Red Economy" agenda. This drive focuses on expanding palm nut cultivation as a strategic means to tackle youth unemployment and stimulate local economic growth through the agricultural value chain. These multifaceted initiatives—ranging from high-level fiscal oversight and tax restructuring to local industrial projects—reflect a comprehensive strategy to ensure Ghana's economic self-reliance. By balancing macroeconomic stability with grassroots development, the government aims to create a more resilient economy capable of sustained growth. Moving forward, the success of these programs will depend on continued engagement with stakeholders, from trade associations to traditional leaders, and the effective implementation of the new Independent Fiscal Council's advisory recommendations.