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.

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OSP Accountability Drive Saves Billions Amid Institutional and Legal Tensions

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has intensified its anti-corruption efforts, revealing that its investigation into contractual dealings between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) saved the Republic over GH¢5.7 billion. According to the OSP’s 2025 Half-Yearly Report, these contracts were awarded through misconduct and false claims, leading President John Dramani Mahama to order the immediate termination of all public procurement contracts with SML. The findings implicated several high-ranking officials, including former Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, citing significant statutory breaches and a lack of genuine necessity for the services rendered. Parallel to the SML probe, the OSP has turned its attention to the health and maritime sectors, directing the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to submit a comprehensive Integrity Plan by March 31, 2026. This follows a corruption risk assessment into a ports disinfection deal with LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited, which allegedly cost the state approximately GH¢345 million. The investigation revealed that LCB improperly retained disinfection fees and failed to remit GH¢25 million in VAT. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has since suspended payments to the firm pending a forensic audit and tasked the Ghana Revenue Authority with enforcing tax recovery to prevent further systemic leakage in port revenue management. The OSP’s enforcement actions have also extended to high-value asset seizures, notably in a criminal case against former National Petroleum Authority (NPA) CEO Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid and nine others. The accused are alleged to have extorted over GH¢291 million from petroleum sector players between 2022 and 2024. Seized assets include fuel stations, luxury residential properties, and high-end vehicles valued at GH¢18.6 million. However, the OSP faces legal hurdles; an Accra High Court recently dismissed its application to confirm the freeze on properties belonging to businessman Nana Yaw Duodu, known as Dr. Sledge, highlighting the ongoing tension between the prosecutor's office and the judiciary regarding asset management and legal due process. Beyond financial investigations, Ghana’s political and institutional landscape is navigating significant shifts in academic and electoral governance. The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Cape Coast branch, has demanded the resignation of the leadership of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), citing regulatory overreach and threats to university autonomy. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has brought closure to the Kpandai parliamentary dispute, ruling 4-1 in favor of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Mathew Nyidam. The apex court’s decision overturned a High Court annulment, sparking widespread celebrations in Kpandai and reaffirming the ruling party’s confidence in the judicial process as the nation continues to balance accountability with institutional stability.

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Ghana’s Political Giants Gear Up for Internal Elections Amid Primary Contests and Structural Reforms

Ghana’s political landscape is reaching a fever pitch as the two major parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), embark on critical internal reorganizations ahead of the 2028 general elections. For the NPP, all eyes are on the upcoming presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026. The Ashanti Region has emerged as the decisive battleground, boasting over 30,000 delegates across 47 constituencies. As a traditional stronghold, the region’s massive delegate base makes it a king-maker; aspirants are shifting toward grassroots-focused campaigns to secure legitimacy and momentum. Meanwhile, the NDC is executing its own roadmap, with National Executive Elections slated for December 19 to finalize its leadership structure and strengthen internal democracy. The NPP flagbearer race features several prominent figures, each presenting distinct visions for the party’s future. Kennedy Agyapong has appealed for unity, centering his platform on industrialization and youth job creation while explicitly rejecting "revenge politics." Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, campaigning under the slogan "Hope for All," emphasizes restoring public trust through education, STEM development, and inclusive leadership. Despite the competitive field, some party insiders, like Richard Nyama, predict a landslide victory for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, estimating a win margin between 65% and 70%. However, the race has not been without controversy; a whistleblower recently alleged a coordinated plot to undermine the primary’s integrity using unauthorized mobile apps and polling agents, prompting NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye to clarify that only the Ghana Police Service is authorized to provide security. Parallel to the NPP’s primary, the NDC is implementing significant structural reforms to ensure fairness in its internal polls. General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey announced a "resign-to-contest" directive, requiring government appointees to step down from their roles six months prior to seeking party office. This move has received support from political scientists like Dr. Amakye Boateng, who argues it prevents the abuse of office and levels the playing field. Interestingly, NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed characterized the NDC’s policy as "long overdue," noting that the NPP had already adopted similar constitutional amendments to separate party leadership from government duties. As both parties refine their internal frameworks, the shadows of the 2024 general elections continue to influence the political discourse. Recent debates have flared over the credibility of political polling in Ghana, with veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr criticizing researchers like Prof. Smart Sarpong for inaccurate projections that favored the NPP in the previous cycle. These discussions highlight a growing demand for transparency and data integrity as the parties transition from internal reorganization to the broader national stage. The outcomes of these upcoming executive and flagbearer elections will ultimately define the strategies and leadership faces that will compete for the presidency in 2028.

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Political Criticism and Colonial Legacy: A Dual Perspective on African Women and Party Dynamics

In recent political discourse, two significant themes have emerged: the internal conflicts within Ghana's New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the historical exploitation of African women under colonialism. Joseph Osei Owusu, the former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, has publicly criticized Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng for airing grievances about the NPP's current leadership. Frimpong-Boateng described the party as 'fake' and alleged corruption in its election processes, expressing a sense of disconnection from the party he once knew. Owusu contends that such criticisms should be addressed internally rather than in public forums, emphasizing the need for unity within the party as it approaches future elections. Simultaneously, the legacy of colonialism continues to resonate in discussions about gender and social justice in Africa. Margaret Mbira, a Kenyan human rights activist, has highlighted the integral role of African women in colonial economies, arguing that their labor was exploited to sustain colonial infrastructures. She advocates for reparations as a means to address these historical injustices and restore autonomy to women, who have been treated as expendable resources. The Pan-African Progressive Front (PPF), which Mbira represents, calls for systemic changes that include land rights and social protections for women, linking the fight for reparations to broader struggles for dignity and justice. This dual narrative underscores the ongoing challenges within political parties and the enduring impact of colonial legacies on gender equality in Africa.

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Call for Transparency as Ghana Loses Nearly 19 Tonnes of Gold in Three Months

Economist Dr. Frank Bannor has raised alarms over a dramatic decline in Ghana's gold reserves, which plummeted from 37.1 tonnes in September 2025 to just 18.6 tonnes by December 2025, marking a loss of 18.5 tonnes within a single quarter. This significant drop has prompted concerns regarding the management of the country's gold reserves, especially given that the previous administration had left reserves at 30.5 tonnes. Dr. Bannor is demanding a public explanation from the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, questioning whether the gold was sold, used as collateral, or involved in off-market transactions. He emphasized the need for transparency to maintain public trust in reserve management during a critical period of economic recovery for the nation. The economist's call for clarity highlights the importance of understanding the financial implications of such a substantial loss in reserves, which could affect Ghana's economic stability.

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Ghana Allocates Over 34% of National Budget to Education, Emphasizing Vocational Training

In a significant move to bolster the education sector, the Ghanaian government has allocated over 34% of the national budget to education, marking the highest investment in any sector. Emmanuel Kwesi Bedzrah, Board Chairman of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and MP for Ho West, made this announcement during a sod-cutting ceremony for infrastructure projects at Afife Senior High Technical School (ASSETS) in the Volta Region. Bedzrah emphasized the importance of investing in technical and vocational education as a means to prepare the youth for leadership roles and enhance their employability in a competitive job market. He urged students, particularly girls, to pursue education rigorously and acquire practical skills, especially in information technology. The commitment to education is further reflected in the support for the Free Senior High School policy, which constitutes 45% of GETFund's budget. Plans for infrastructure improvements at ASSETS include the construction of dormitories and a school farm project aimed at increasing student enrollment and supporting local economic activities. Local officials, including Ketu North MP Eric Edem Agbana and Municipal Director of Education Gerhard Avudzivi, praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to transform ASSETS into a fully operational boarding school and improve educational delivery in the region. The developments are seen as a crucial step towards addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges in Ghana's education system.

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NPP Presidential Primaries: Bawumia Proposes Ten Appointments per Constituency Amidst Strong Campaign Support

In the lead-up to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has unveiled an ambitious initiative promising ten national-level appointments for each constituency if he is elected. This proposal, termed "one constituency, ten appointments," aims to enhance grassroots participation and strengthen local party structures, allowing constituencies to recommend candidates for approximately 3,000 of the 7,000 national roles available, including ministers and ambassadors. Bawumia emphasized performance as a key criterion for appointees, pledging to replace those who underperform. Bawumia's campaign is gaining momentum, with Professor Bruce Amartey, a member of his regional campaign team, endorsing him as the most prepared candidate for the NPP primaries. Amartey highlighted Bawumia's extensive political experience and cautioned against changing candidates, advocating for continuity in leadership ahead of the 2028 elections. Meanwhile, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, another presidential aspirant, claims a competitive edge due to his extensive nationwide campaigning, asserting that he has visited every part of Ghana, unlike some of his rivals. This assertion underscores the importance of grassroots engagement in the party's leadership selection process. Recent polling data from Global InfoAnalytics indicates that Bawumia is currently leading the race, projected to secure 57% of the votes, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 28% and Acheampong at 13%. The primaries will see participation from over 8,500 delegates across 15 designated centers in the Upper East Region, with a focus on ensuring a transparent voting process supported by police security. As the primaries approach, the dynamics within the NPP continue to evolve, with candidates positioning themselves for the party's nomination amid a backdrop of strategic proposals and campaign efforts.

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Kpandai MP Matthew Nyindam Reflects on Supreme Court Victory Amid Legal Struggles

Kpandai MP Matthew Nyindam has expressed profound relief and vindication following a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated him as a member of Parliament. The court's 4-1 decision overturned a previous High Court ruling that had annulled his election victory, which was marred by allegations of irregularities. Nyindam, who described the past year as one of the most challenging periods of his political career, revealed that he faced significant emotional strain and uncertainty during the legal battle. He turned to faith for support, stating, "I had nobody to speak for me, but God," and emphasized his belief in the legitimacy of his election despite the challenges posed by state-backed candidates. In interviews following the ruling, Nyindam reflected on the emotional toll of the legal proceedings, admitting he "almost lost hope along the way" but remained confident in the electoral process. He acknowledged the possibility of a fresh election but expressed readiness to accept any outcome, trusting that the people of Kpandai would ultimately determine his political fate. Nyindam also highlighted the financial strain he experienced due to the resources expended during the legal battle, stating, "I am broke after winning my election with every resource I had." The ruling has drawn mixed reactions, with members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) urging calm among supporters while asserting that the legal battle is not over. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, an NDC MP, indicated that the party would explore further legal options following the ruling. Nyindam's reinstatement maintains the New Patriotic Party's hold on all 87 parliamentary seats, marking a significant moment in the political landscape of Kpandai, where he first won the seat in 2013, ending two decades of NDC dominance.

Hon. Habib Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tolon, is captured standing and addressing the plenary in the Parliament of Ghana. He is holding documents and gesturing with his finger raised, while Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh sits beside him during the parliamentary session.
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Gbeniyiri Holds Purification Rites to End Violence After Deadly Conflict

Six months after the Gbeniyiri conflict that resulted in 38 fatalities, traditional priests conducted purification rites to cleanse the area and signify the end of hostilities. The rituals, led by Chief Priest Mwiri Kipo Huenhen, aimed to appease the spirits of the deceased and discourage any future violence. The rites included sacrificial offerings and were attended by local stakeholders, including representatives from the Savannah Regional Peace Council, who praised the initiative as a vital step towards achieving sustainable peace in the region. The conflict, which stemmed from a land dispute in August 2025, escalated despite previous attempts at resolution. As part of the reconciliation efforts, a new chief's palace has been constructed to replace the one destroyed during the violence. The chief priest warned against any attempts to rekindle conflict, emphasizing the community's commitment to peace and harmony moving forward.

A portrait photograph of Bryan Acheampong, a Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament. He is captured seated at a table with a red cloth, wearing a traditional white smock, a teal-colored cap, and black-rimmed glasses, with a portion of the Ghana flag visible in the background.
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Political Developments: Ilhan Omar's Attack, Ghana's Land Review, and NPP Leadership Dynamics

Recent political events have highlighted significant issues both in the United States and Ghana. In Minnesota, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was attacked during a town hall meeting when an audience member sprayed her with an unknown liquid from a syringe. Fortunately, Omar was unharmed and continued the event, asserting her commitment to community engagement despite the incident. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the attack, emphasizing that violence and intimidation have no place in the city. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the Cabinet has approved a review of public lands acquisition to address illegal land grabs. Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced plans to cancel incomplete land acquisitions and digitize land records to enhance transparency. The initiative aims to combat illegal mining activities while ensuring sustainable management of natural resources. Vice-President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang stressed the need for collaboration among agencies to protect the environment and promote national development. In the political arena, discussions are heating up within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as they prepare for the 2026 presidential primaries. Barima Sarpong Kumankuma has advocated for Dr. Bryan Acheampong as a unifying candidate capable of restoring trust among party members and appealing to the electorate. The call for unity within the party is seen as crucial for their success in upcoming elections, highlighting the importance of choosing a leader who can bridge divides and inspire confidence among Ghanaians.

A close-up portrait of Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria's former petroleum minister, looking directly at the camera with a serious expression. She is dressed in a grey fedora-style hat with a black band, a blue-grey scarf, and a grey coat against a neutral, blurred background.
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Political Developments in Ghana: NPP Primaries, NDC Aspirants, and Joe Wise's Decision

In recent political developments in Ghana, former Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei Owusu, popularly known as Joe Wise, has publicly declined an offer to serve as a running mate in the upcoming 2024 elections. Citing health concerns and a desire to step away from public service, he emphasized the importance of loyalty to the state over political ambitions, stating he would refuse any similar offers in the future. Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is gearing up for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026. This election is crucial as delegates will choose a flagbearer for the 2028 general elections. The NPP, recognized for its commitment to internal democracy and ethical leadership, faces a significant test in maintaining party cohesion and public confidence amid a complex political landscape. In another significant political event, five candidates from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are set to be vetted for the parliamentary ticket in Ayawaso East on January 28, 2026. The candidates include Hajia Amina Adam and Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, with a primary election slated for February 7, 2026, ahead of a by-election on March 3, 2026. These developments reflect the dynamic political climate in Ghana as parties prepare for upcoming elections, highlighting the importance of leadership and accountability in the nation's governance.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is seen speaking at a microphone during a press conference or public event, gesturing with her right hand. She is flanked by two people, a woman in a black hijab and glasses on her left, and a man in a blue suit on her right, in a warmly lit indoor setting.
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Ilhan Omar Attacked with Unknown Liquid During Town Hall Meeting

During a town hall meeting in Minneapolis on October 3, 2023, Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar was attacked when an audience member sprayed her with an unknown liquid from a syringe. Despite the alarming incident, Omar was unharmed and continued her address, asserting her resilience by stating, "I'm a survivor... this small agitator isn't going to intimidate me." The assailant was promptly arrested, and an investigation is underway. The town hall, which drew around 100 attendees, focused on federal immigration issues, particularly in light of recent fatal shootings involving immigration officials. Omar, who has been vocal about her stance on immigration, called for the abolition of ICE during the event. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the attack, emphasizing that such acts of violence and intimidation have no place in the community. Omar reaffirmed her commitment to addressing the concerns of her constituents, insisting that she would not be deterred from her work by this incident.

The image shows five plastic toy revolvers with distinctive red handles and silver-colored barrels laid out on a blue and white patterned surface. A banner at the bottom contains the official website and social media handles for the Ghana Police Service, suggesting a public awareness campaign.
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Ghana's Small Arms Commission Urges Parents to Avoid Toy Guns Amid Violence Concerns

The Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has issued a strong warning to parents against purchasing toy guns for their children, particularly during the festive season. This advisory follows a troubling incident in the Amansie Central District, where police confiscated a real firearm from a 15-year-old boy, resulting in a fatal clash. Mr. Gyebi Asante, Deputy Director of the Commission, expressed concerns that toy guns could normalize violence among children, potentially leading them to mistake real firearms for toys. He emphasized the importance of fostering a safe environment for children by opting for non-violent toys and promoting responsible gun ownership practices. Additionally, he called on licensed gun dealers to strictly adhere to regulations to prevent children from accessing firearms. The Commission's message highlights the urgent need to prioritize child safety and mitigate risks associated with gun violence in society.