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.

Ayawaso East NDC Primary Under Scrutiny Following High-Profile Vote-Buying Allegations and Diplomatic Recall
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Ayawaso East NDC Primary Under Scrutiny Following High-Profile Vote-Buying Allegations and Diplomatic Recall

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is grappling with a significant internal crisis following its recent parliamentary primary in the Ayawaso East constituency. The election has been marred by widespread allegations of vote-buying, with reports indicating that delegates were induced with 32-inch television sets, motorbikes, and substantial cash payments. The controversy reached a climax when President John Mahama recalled the winning candidate, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, from his diplomatic post as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria. This move, coupled with the party's decision to launch a formal investigation, has placed the integrity of the primary under intense national scrutiny. In response to the growing scandal, the NDC has established a three-member investigative committee led by Kofi Totobi Quakyi. The committee is tasked with probing the inducements allegedly distributed by the camp of Baba Jamal Ahmed and is expected to deliver its findings by February 10, 2026. While Baba Jamal has rejected the claims of illegality and pledged his full cooperation with the probe, the NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament has already called for the total annulment of the primary results. The caucus, led by Mahama Ayariga, is advocating for the disqualification of any aspirants found to have engaged in transactional politics, emphasizing that such practices compromise the party's ethical standing. The fallout has drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum. Richard Ahiagbah, Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), warned that the alleged bribery in Ayawaso East threatens the very foundations of Ghana’s democracy. Similarly, Ghana’s Ambassador to the U.S., Victor Emmanuel Smith, condemned the distribution of gifts, labeling it as a form of corruption that leads to compromised governance. Conversely, Edem Senanu, Chairperson of the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption, lauded the NDC for its swift investigative response, urging other political entities to adopt similar transparency and accountability measures when faced with internal misconduct. As the investigation nears its conclusion, the focus shifts to the broader electoral calendar. The Electoral Commission (EC) has scheduled an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting for February 11, 2026, to discuss the organization of the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election. The outcome of the NDC’s internal probe will be pivotal in determining whether the party will field a new candidate or seek a rerun of the primary. This case serves as a critical test for Ghana’s political institutions as they navigate the fine line between campaign inducements and the preservation of electoral integrity.

Ghana’s Political Climate: Heated Economic Debates, Historical Leadership Prophecies, and New Power Rumors
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Ghana’s Political Climate: Heated Economic Debates, Historical Leadership Prophecies, and New Power Rumors

The Ghanaian political landscape has witnessed a surge in activity, ranging from volatile televised confrontations to historical reflections on national leadership. This period of intense discourse is marked by sharp disagreements over the country's economic trajectory and emerging rumors regarding the future leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). These developments come at a time when the nation is grappling with both historical legacies and current administrative challenges, reflecting a high-stakes environment for political actors across the spectrum. A significant flashpoint occurred during a live debate on Joy Prime, where Solomon Owusu of the Unity Party and Awal Mohammed of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) engaged in a heated exchange over Ghana's inflation rates. The discussion quickly turned confrontational when Mohammed attributed the nation’s high inflation to the external pressures of the Russia-Ukraine war. This claim was sharply contested by Owusu, who pointed to recent declining inflation figures despite the ongoing global conflict as evidence of internal mismanagement. The debate eventually devolved into personal insults, illustrating the deepening partisan tensions surrounding the government's economic performance. Amidst these contemporary clashes, historian Yaw Anokye Frimpong has provided a historical lens through which to view current leadership dynamics. Frimpong recently revealed a 'prophecy' attributed to Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. While in exile in Guinea following the 1966 coup, Nkrumah reportedly expressed a profound desire for a Northerner to eventually lead the country. Stung by the betrayal of those he had previously trusted, Nkrumah noted that Northern members of his administration had remained remarkably loyal. He allegedly vowed that if he ever returned to power, he would work exclusively with Northerners, predicting that the region would produce a future President of Ghana. This historical context arrives as Haruna Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tamale South and Minister of Education, actively dismisses rumors of his own presidential ambitions. Iddrisu’s office issued a formal statement disassociating the Minister from unauthorized campaign posters circulating on social media that suggested a bid for the NDC flagbearership. The statement clarified that Iddrisu remains fully committed to his ministerial duties and is currently in Lusaka, Zambia, accompanying President Mahama on official business. The delegation is focused on the 'Reset Ghana' agenda, specifically targeting comprehensive reforms within the education sector. Ultimately, these narratives—ranging from the raw friction of televised debates to the weight of historical prophecies—underscore the complex transition Ghana is navigating. While the NPP and its critics continue to battle over the narrative of economic recovery, the NDC faces the internal challenge of managing leadership expectations and unauthorized campaigning. As the nation moves forward, the interplay between historical loyalty, as envisioned by Nkrumah, and the practical demands of modern governance will likely continue to shape the political discourse.

Violent Chieftaincy Conflict in Kpandai Leaves Two Critically Injured Over Gravel Pit Dispute
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Violent Chieftaincy Conflict in Kpandai Leaves Two Critically Injured Over Gravel Pit Dispute

A violent confrontation erupted in Kpandai on February 7, 2026, as rival chieftaincy factions clashed over the control of a gravel pit, leaving two men critically injured and resulting in significant property damage. The incident occurred in the Dobong community and was triggered by a dispute over resources intended for local road rehabilitation. The clash highlights the volatile intersection of traditional authority and land ownership within the Northern Region. The conflict centers on a territorial dispute between supporters of the Nkanchina chief and those of Nana Ntosah. Tensions reached a breaking point when Nana Ntosah’s faction challenged the Nkanchina chief's authority to permit gravel extraction at the site. The situation escalated rapidly as Nana Ntosah's group reportedly dispatched heavy machinery to seize control of the pit, leading to a fierce battle involving weapons and acts of arson as both sides fought for dominance over the resource. Officers from the Kpandai District Police were deployed to the scene to intervene, successfully restoring a fragile peace and preventing further casualties. While the police have secured the area, the community remains on edge due to the severity of the injuries sustained and the destruction of local property during the brawl. Authorities are maintaining a presence in the area to deter any retaliatory attacks between the two factions. In response to the escalation, the Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the underlying chieftaincy tensions and seek a lasting resolution to the dispute. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges posed by land-related chieftaincy conflicts in Ghana and the urgent need for mediation to ensure that developmental projects, such as road rehabilitation, do not become flashpoints for communal violence.

Accra Metropolitan Assembly Doubles Street Sweepers’ Allowance to GH₵800 to Boost Sanitation and Employment
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Accra Metropolitan Assembly Doubles Street Sweepers’ Allowance to GH₵800 to Boost Sanitation and Employment

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced a significant 100% increase in the monthly allowance for street sweepers, effectively doubling their pay from GH₵400 to GH₵800. This initiative, announced by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey, is a strategic effort to enhance the city's sanitation management while simultaneously addressing the pressing issue of urban youth unemployment. By offering a more competitive wage, the assembly aims to attract a younger demographic into the sanitation workforce, a sector that has historically struggled with recruitment and retention due to low remuneration. Beyond improving the livelihoods of individual workers, the wage hike is designed to professionalize the sanitation sector in the capital. Mayor Allotey emphasized that fair compensation is crucial for motivating workers and improving the overall quality of service delivery. This initiative also directly aligns with the government’s broader rollout of the 24-Hour Economy policy. Under this framework, sanitation services in Accra are expected to transition into a continuous, around-the-clock operation. This shift not only ensures a cleaner environment for residents but also creates more shifts and opportunities for those seeking stable employment in the public sector. Looking ahead, Mayor Allotey has urged other metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) across Ghana to adopt similar measures to stimulate local economies and reduce the prevalence of informal, precarious employment among the youth. He believes that recognizing the dignity of sanitation work through better pay is essential for national development. As Accra takes this leading step, the move is seen as a critical test for the sustainability of sanitation reforms and the practical implementation of the 24-Hour Economy model at the local government level.

Global Political Shifts: Japan Elects New Leadership as UK and Nigeria Forge Historic Ties
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Global Political Shifts: Japan Elects New Leadership as UK and Nigeria Forge Historic Ties

Japan is currently at a political crossroads as millions cast ballots in a high-stakes snap election called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Seeking a definitive public mandate for her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its partner, the Japanese Innovation Party, Takaichi is betting on her personal popularity and a platform of aggressive tax cuts and subsidies. Despite a slight dip in early voter turnout—attributed largely to inclement weather—projections suggest her coalition could secure a commanding 300 seats in the 465-member Lower House. This potential victory would represent a significant reversal for the LDP, which had previously struggled to maintain control amid internal scandals and a unified opposition. Takaichi’s leadership style, often compared to that of Margaret Thatcher, has resonated particularly well with younger demographics. Her influence extends beyond policy, as she has cultivated a significant social media presence and even emerged as a fashion icon. However, her tenure is not without friction; critics argue that her populist economic measures could strain Japan’s fiscal health. Furthermore, her hawkish foreign policy toward China and an endorsement from former U.S. President Donald Trump have sparked debate over Japan’s future international standing. As the nation awaits the final tally, the LDP still faces the challenge of distancing itself from past fundraising controversies to fully regain public trust. Simultaneously, the United Kingdom is preparing for a landmark diplomatic event as King Charles III and Queen Camilla host Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for a historic state visit. Scheduled for mid-March 2024, this marks the first official state visit from Nigeria to the UK in 37 years, the last being in 1989. This visit is viewed as a crucial exercise in soft-power diplomacy, aimed at bolstering a relationship that saw bilateral trade exceed £8 billion last year. For President Tinubu, who took office following a disputed election in 2023, the invitation to Buckingham Palace serves as a significant validation of his administration on the world stage. Across the English Channel, the European Union is intensifying its regulatory oversight of the digital landscape, signaling a shift in how governments interact with global tech giants. The EU has formally mandated that TikTok overhaul its addictive design features, such as autoplay and specific algorithms, or face crippling fines of up to 6% of its global turnover. This move under the Digital Services Act highlights a growing political consensus on the need to protect younger users from psychological harm. Together, these developments—from the ballot boxes of Japan to the halls of Buckingham Palace and the regulatory chambers of Brussels—underscore a period of profound transition and assertive governance in global politics.

Ayawaso East NDC Primary Shaken by Vote-Buying Allegations and Recall of High Commissioner Baba Jamal
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Ayawaso East NDC Primary Shaken by Vote-Buying Allegations and Recall of High Commissioner Baba Jamal

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary for the Ayawaso East constituency has been plunged into controversy following the victory of Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria. While Baba Jamal secured 431 votes (45%) to defeat his closest rival, Hajia Amina Adam, who garnered 399 votes (41%), the election results were immediately overshadowed by widespread allegations of vote-buying and electoral malpractice. In a swift response to the growing scandal, President John Dramani Mahama has recalled Baba Jamal from his diplomatic post in Nigeria, as the party and external observers grapple with the fallout from an election marred by the distribution of various inducements to delegates. The primary’s outcome defied pre-election forecasts by Global InfoAnalytics, whose Executive Director, Mussa Dankwah, had predicted a comfortable win for Hajia Amina Adam. Dankwah attributed the discrepancy to 'high voter inducement,' noting that the model's expected 50% for Adam fell significantly short as Baba Jamal outperformed expectations by several percentage points. Evidence in the form of videos and witness reports emerged during the polls, showing delegates carrying 32-inch television sets and other gifts, including motorbikes, money, and even boiled eggs. Despite the visual evidence, Baba Jamal has defended his actions, describing the items as a reflection of his long-standing tradition of generosity and hospitality toward his constituents rather than a calculated attempt to influence the electoral outcome. The scandal has prompted sharp reactions from civil society and political analysts. Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has called for the total annulment of the primary, citing gross violations of the NDC’s electoral code and urging the party to uphold higher moral standards. Similarly, Mussa Dankwah has suggested that the matter be referred to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to investigate the corruption allegations. Within the party, Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore, the NDC’s Greater Accra Regional Chairman, admitted that policing financial influence in internal polls has become increasingly difficult. He highlighted the rise of digital transactions, such as Mobile Money, which allow for discreet voter inducement that traditional security measures struggle to monitor. As the NDC initiates internal investigations into the conduct of all candidates involved in the Ayawaso East primary, the incident has reignited a national debate on the ethics of gift-giving in Ghanaian politics. While Baba Jamal emphasizes that his intent was not to sway votes, critics argue that such practices undermine the integrity of the democratic process. The party now faces the challenge of addressing these systemic issues of financial influence while preparing for the upcoming by-election and broader national polls, with the Ayawaso East case serving as a critical test of the NDC's commitment to electoral transparency.

UK Prime Minister Starmer Secures US Support for Chagos Deal Amid Domestic Turmoil Over Mandelson Vetting
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UK Prime Minister Starmer Secures US Support for Chagos Deal Amid Domestic Turmoil Over Mandelson Vetting

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has reached a critical diplomatic milestone as the United States formally endorsed an agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Under the terms of the landmark deal, the United Kingdom will cede the Indian Ocean territory while securing a 99-year lease for the strategically vital military base on Diego Garcia. This endorsement provides a significant boost to the Starmer administration, which has sought to resolve the long-standing colonial-era dispute while maintaining the security of Western military assets in the region. The agreement has seen a notable shift in rhetoric from US President Donald Trump. While he previously characterized the handover as an "act of great stupidity," Trump later communicated to Prime Minister Starmer that the final deal was the "best he could make." Despite this backing, the President emphasized that the US maintains the right to protect its presence at Diego Garcia should security threats arise. Domestically, however, the deal faces stiff opposition from political factions who argue the transfer could compromise national security, particularly given Mauritius’s diplomatic ties with China. Simultaneously, Prime Minister Starmer is navigating a significant domestic crisis following a public apology to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein. The Prime Minister admitted to an error in judgment regarding the vetting of Lord Mandelson for the role of UK ambassador to the United States. Starmer acknowledged that he had mistakenly relied on inaccurate information regarding Mandelson’s past relationship with the late financier. This admission has sparked a wave of internal party pressure, with some Labour MPs calling for his resignation and demanding the release of classified documents to clarify the vetting process. These dual developments place the Starmer government under intense scrutiny as it balances international strategic interests with domestic accountability. While the Chagos deal moves toward parliamentary ratification with the weight of American support, the fallout from the Mandelson controversy continues to test the administration’s internal cohesion. The coming weeks will be pivotal as the government attempts to finalize the territorial transfer while addressing the integrity of its vetting procedures and maintaining the confidence of the British public.

Ghana Legal and Political Outlook: High-Profile Accountability and Justice System Reforms
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Ghana Legal and Political Outlook: High-Profile Accountability and Justice System Reforms

Ghana’s justice system and political landscape have seen a flurry of activity as state agencies intensify efforts to ensure accountability and recover state assets. In a significant international development, the U.S. Marshals Service confirmed the arrest of Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu, the former CEO of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), who fled to the United States following her conviction for embezzlement. According to details made public through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by lawyer William Nyarko, she was apprehended on January 6, 2026, by the Nevada Violent Offenders Task Force and is currently being held at the Henderson Detention Center, marking a major step in the state’s pursuit of high-profile fugitives. Back in Ghana, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, announced that 16 dockets under the 'Operation Recover All Loots' (ORAL) initiative are currently under review. Emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for corruption, Dr. Ayine stated that his office has not engaged in plea negotiations for these offenses. To further strengthen the state's capacity to reclaim stolen wealth, he is proposing a Criminal Proceeds Recovery Bill. This legislative push comes as the state faces significant financial risks from billions of cedis in land compensation claims and ten pending international arbitration cases. Vice-President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, during a visit to the Attorney-General's office, urged state agencies to exercise extreme due diligence to avoid these costly legal battles. In the courtroom, judicial decisions have sparked public debate, notably the Amasaman High Court’s decision to drastically reduce the prison sentence of Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa. Originally sentenced to 15 years in July 2025 for a fraudulent money-doubling scheme, her term was reduced to 12 months after the court deemed the initial sentence excessive. Meanwhile, the legal system continues to process other criminal matters, including the remand of policewoman Gifty Oppong for the alleged murder of a taxi driver at Tetegu, and the trial of businessman Seth Welbeck, who was granted GH¢200,000 bail after allegedly threatening a police officer with a firearm on court premises. Finally, calls for institutional integrity have reached the education sector, where Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak has reaffirmed his commitment to transparency within the Scholarship Secretariat. Responding to allegations of favoritism and corruption, Dr. Apaak called for a forensic audit of the secretariat to ensure that state-funded scholarships are distributed fairly. These combined efforts across the executive, judicial, and law enforcement sectors reflect an ongoing national focus on fiscal responsibility, legal reform, and the restoration of public trust in state institutions.

Ayawaso East Set for By-Election as NDC Leads Polls Amid National Political Tensions
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Ayawaso East Set for By-Election as NDC Leads Polls Amid National Political Tensions

The Ghanaian political landscape is currently dominated by the transition in the Ayawaso East constituency following the death of its Member of Parliament, Naser Toure Mahama, on January 4, 2026. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority Caucus in Parliament recently paid a solemn tribute to the late lawmaker, praising his humility and dedication to public service, particularly his work on energy and infrastructure committees. Led by Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, a delegation visited the bereaved family and presented GH"100,000 to the late MP’s widow, Hajia Amina Adams, as the party prepares for a critical by-election scheduled for March 2026. Recent data from Global InfoAnalytics suggests the NDC is firmly positioned to retain the seat. Hajia Amina Adams has emerged as the frontrunner in the NDC primary, securing 58% support among delegates, significantly ahead of her main rival, Baba Jamal, who holds 32%. Polling indicates that either candidate would likely defeat the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Baba Ali, in a general matchup, with Adams projected to win 73% of the vote. Analysts attribute Adams’ strong performance to a combination of grassroots support and sympathy following her husband’s passing, though they caution that voter turnout will be a deciding factor in the final results. While the NDC focuses on the by-election, the ruling NPP is grappling with internal divisions following its January 31 presidential primaries. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, former MP for Tema East, has publicly condemned Victoria Duncan-Williams for suggesting that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia cannot win the presidency due to religious demographics. Titus-Glover described the remarks as divisive and urged for Christian-Muslim unity. He also addressed defeated candidate Kennedy Agyapong, urging him to accept the primary results and discard the "No Ken, No Vote" sentiment to ensure party cohesion ahead of future elections. Looking further ahead to 2028, political discourse is already intensifying regarding potential successors within the NDC. Social media debate has highlighted several figures, including Ato Forson and Naana Opoku Agyemang, as possible flagbearers. Speculation has been further fueled by President John Dramani Mahama’s recent comments on the importance of women in leadership, positioning Naana Jane as a formidable contender. These discussions emphasize that tribal balance, gender representation, and economic initiatives like a proposed Women’s Bank will be pivotal in shaping the 2028 race. At the constituency level, grassroots engagement remains a priority for lawmakers. In Ketu North, MP Edem Agbana was recently honored by local brand GoldCoast Tokota for his support of indigenous entrepreneurs. Agbana used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to youth employment and vocational training, highlighting plans to train local youth in shoemaking. These local initiatives, combined with the high-stakes national maneuvering, illustrate the multifaceted nature of Ghanaian politics as the country moves toward a series of pivotal electoral tests.

Mahama Administration’s 24-Hour Economy Policy Faces Parliamentary Scrutiny Amid Broader Sector Reforms
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Mahama Administration’s 24-Hour Economy Policy Faces Parliamentary Scrutiny Amid Broader Sector Reforms

The Ghanaian Parliament has become a focal point of intense debate as the Mahama administration seeks to codify its flagship 24-hour economy policy through the establishment of a dedicated 24-Hour Economy Authority. Opposition members, led by Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor, have criticized the rollout as ineffective, labeling it a 'deception' nearly a year into the government’s tenure. Jinapor noted that the promised three-shift work system remains largely unimplemented, with the Office of the Speaker of Parliament being the only notable exception. He argued that instead of creating a new authority, which he claims would primarily benefit political appointees, the government should utilize existing agencies like the Ghana Export Promotion Authority to manage the policy. In defense of the bill, Attah Issah, the MP for Sagnarigu, emphasized that the 24-hour economy is a complex, multi-sectoral initiative that necessitates a legally backed institution. Issah argued that a mere administrative secretariat would lack the budgetary allocation and legal capacity required to coordinate effectively across various ministries. According to Issah, the Authority is essential for ensuring accountability and compliance, providing the necessary institutional framework that current ministries are not equipped to handle independently. This clash highlights the growing political tension over the government's ability to fulfill its central campaign promises regarding youth employment. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Transport has unveiled a multi-sector strategy to address urban mobility and rising costs. Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe announced the acquisition of two passenger vessels for the Accra–Takoradi and Ghana–Nigeria routes to alleviate road congestion. To further support the transport sector, the Ministry of Trade is developing a mobile application to track spare parts pricing, aimed at ensuring transparency and encouraging fare reductions. However, these efforts are being met with mixed reactions, as experts have raised concerns over a separate proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport. Estimates suggest the rebranding could cost taxpayers between $2 million and $5 million, a move some critics view as more politically motivated than pragmatically necessary. Adding to the government’s challenges, the Minority Caucus has demanded the immediate release of GH¢10 billion to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) to settle debts owed to cocoa farmers. Isaac Yaw Opoku, the ranking member on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs, alleged that a power struggle within the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has delayed payments, leaving many farmers in financial distress since November. As the administration navigates these criticisms in agriculture and aviation, the success of the 24-Hour Economy Authority remains the central test of its economic agenda and its ability to address the nation’s systemic unemployment and infrastructure hurdles.

President Mahama Promotes ‘Reset Agenda’ and Economic Gains During Zambia State Visit
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President Mahama Promotes ‘Reset Agenda’ and Economic Gains During Zambia State Visit

President John Dramani Mahama has concluded a significant three-day state visit to Zambia, where he addressed the Zambian National Assembly and highlighted the successes of his administration’s “Resetting Ghana” agenda. During his address on February 5, 2026, Mahama emphasized that his government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and debt restructuring has delivered tangible economic stability. Key achievements cited included the reduction of the size of government to 58 ministers and a dramatic decline in inflation from 23.4% in late 2024 to 3.8% by January 2026. He further noted that the Ghanaian cedi saw a 32% appreciation in 2025, signaling a robust recovery for the national economy. A central pillar of Mahama’s address was the sharing of Ghana’s extractive sector reforms, specifically the “Gold Board” model established in 2022. He revealed that the initiative has significantly boosted gold production from 63 to 104 tonnes by formalizing small-scale mining and enhancing artisanal exports. Mahama urged African nations to exercise greater sovereignty over their natural resources, advocating for local mineral processing and the repatriation of foreign reserves from Western systems to stimulate continental development financing. This vision includes the creation of regional prosperity platforms, such as integrated energy grids and shared manufacturing zones, to move Africa toward action-oriented unity. The visit also served to deepen bilateral ties between the two “natural partners.” President Mahama and his Zambian counterpart, Hakainde Hichilema, signed an Enhanced Economic Development Cooperation Partnership Agreement, which includes provisions for visa-free travel to facilitate trade and tourism. Complementing the high-level diplomatic talks, First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama held a private meeting with Zambian First Lady Mutinta Hichilema. Their discussions focused on collaborative social development initiatives and community-based partnerships, reinforcing the multifaceted nature of the Ghana-Zambia relationship. Despite the positive economic data presented in Zambia, the narrative faced scrutiny back home in Ghana. Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Member of Parliament for Bantama, raised concerns regarding the accuracy of the reported 3.8% inflation rate. Speaking on Nhyria FM, the lawmaker asserted that the statistical decline does not align with the reality of market prices, which remain high for many citizens. As the “Reset Agenda” continues to be a focal point of Mahama’s domestic and international messaging, the government faces the ongoing challenge of ensuring that macroeconomic gains translate into visible relief and reduced costs of living for the Ghanaian populace.

US Department of Justice Former President Bill Clinton lays in a hot tub. Sitting next to him is a person whose face has been redacted
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Global Political and Legal Shifts: Nigeria Confronts Security and Health Crises as US Congressional Probes Intensify

Significant political and legal developments have emerged across West Africa and the West, highlighted by high-stakes trials in Nigeria and congressional standoffs in the United States. In Nigeria, the federal government has arraigned nine individuals on 57 counts of terrorism related to a 2022 attack in Yelewata, Benue State, which claimed over 150 lives. This legal action coincides with a growing public health demand from the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), who have petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare snakebite envenoming a public health emergency. The association reports that Nigeria suffers approximately 2,000 preventable deaths annually and is advocating for free antivenom and local production support to protect rural populations. In the United States, political tensions remain high as former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify before a House Oversight Committee regarding the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. The agreement follows a looming threat of contempt of Congress charges, with the Clintons dismissing the probe as partisan while marking a rare historical instance of a former president appearing before a congressional panel. Simultaneously, the US government has entered the third day of a partial shutdown. This deadlock is driven by a funding standoff over Department of Homeland Security resources and demands for immigration reform, leaving federal services in limbo as Democrats and Republicans remain divided over enforcement policies. Domestic legal proceedings in Ghana also see significant movement, particularly regarding high-profile defamation and fraud cases. The GH"25 million defamation suit filed by former Black Stars player John Paintsil against broadcaster Patrick Osei Agyemang, known as Countryman Songo, is set to resume in February 2026. In the criminal courts, a 34-year-old nurse was granted GH"150,000 bail after allegedly defrauding a trader of GH"257,000 in a UK visa scam. Furthermore, security forces in Bawku have arrested Raphael Azare Kariyama for allegedly inciting violence, reflecting ongoing efforts by the state to maintain peace in volatile regions through stricter monitoring of inflammatory rhetoric. On the international stage, institutional leadership is seeking to redefine global engagement. The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) held strategic talks in Ghana to strengthen its operational framework for addressing global human rights challenges. Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued an apology for remarks regarding British football fans at the World Economic Forum, while simultaneously defending controversial decisions such as awarding Donald Trump the FIFA Peace Prize. These diverse events collectively underscore a period of intense institutional scrutiny and a drive for accountability across the political, legal, and social sectors.