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.

Five prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, are seen holding hands in a gesture of unity. They are standing in a row against a white backdrop, representing a show of solidarity within the party leadership.
politics|

NPP Primaries: Candidates Sign Peace Pact Amidst Intensifying Rivalry for 2028 Elections

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) gears up for its candidate selection ahead of the 2028 elections, the competition among aspirants is heating up. With a deadline approaching on January 31, 2026, tensions are palpable, prompting all presidential candidates to sign a peace pact on January 22. This pact aims to foster accountability and promote a spirit of unity among supporters, in an effort to mitigate potential conflicts reminiscent of previous electoral contests. Dr. Bryan Acheampong, one of the leading candidates, has positioned himself as the unifier who can bridge gaps within the party, emphasizing his capability to reclaim power for the NPP. Despite facing strong competition from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Acheampong is gaining traction, particularly in the Eastern and Ashanti Regions. In a related development, Kwabena Agyapong, another aspirant, has defended the accuracy of the peace pact against claims of errors made by fellow candidate Kennedy Agyapong. He reaffirmed that all candidates had access to the document for review prior to its public signing, which was intended to enhance transparency and unity within the party. The NPP leadership is tasked with ensuring that the terms of the peace pact are upheld, fostering a fair electoral process. The overarching hope is for a peaceful environment leading to the selection of the party's representative, allowing the focus to shift from rivalry to the electoral outcome itself.

A close-up photograph of Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), speaking at an event. He is wearing thick-rimmed black glasses and a blue blazer while addressing microphones, with a partial Eduwatch banner visible in the background.
politics|

Eduwatch Urges Ghana's Chief of Staff to Freeze GH¢600m Foreign Scholarship Debts

Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) has formally petitioned Chief of Staff Julius Debrah to freeze what it describes as "unsustainable" foreign scholarship debts exceeding GH¢600 million owed to universities in the UK and US. This financial burden has left numerous Ghanaian PhD and Master’s students at risk of homelessness and deportation due to unpaid stipends, with institutions reportedly moving towards active debt collection. Kofi Asare, the Executive Director of Eduwatch, highlighted the pressing need for a "Recall and Transition" strategy, advocating for a shift in funding from foreign scholarships to local educational programs. He emphasized that the costs associated with studying abroad significantly surpass those of local education, suggesting that the government should prioritize domestic educational investments. Eduwatch has also warned of potential legal action against the government if it fails to terminate non-bilateral scholarship agreements that may have been signed without proper financial clearance. This petition comes in the wake of student unrest over the unpaid stipends, which had previously led to protests, now temporarily halted as students await government action.

A professional portrait of Ghanaian politician and actor John Dumelo. He is seen wearing a sharp blue suit, a white shirt, and a patterned light-colored tie against a white paneled wall background.
politics|

John Dumelo Commits to Enhancing Pedestrian Safety After UniMAC Student's Tragic Death

John Setor Dumelo, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has pledged to improve pedestrian safety in his constituency following the tragic death of Nelson Blay Nokotey, a journalism student at UniMAC-IJ. Nokotey was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing the N1 highway near the Dzorwulu traffic light, an incident that has raised serious concerns about the dangerous conditions of the roadway, particularly high vehicular speeds and inadequate pedestrian crossings. In response to this incident, Dumelo described the situation as a significant infrastructure failure and emphasized the urgent need for immediate safety measures. He plans to advocate for the construction of a dedicated footbridge to facilitate safer crossing for students, who often jaywalk due to the lack of proper crossings. Additionally, Dumelo intends to collaborate with the National Road Safety Authority and the Ghana Highway Authority to implement necessary improvements in the area. The tragic death of Nokotey has deeply affected the UniMAC community, prompting students to hold vigils and call for action to prevent future tragedies. Dumelo's commitment to addressing these safety concerns reflects a broader need for infrastructure enhancements to protect pedestrians in high-traffic areas.

A portrait of Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a prominent Ghanaian politician and founding member of the NPP, seated outdoors in a blue traditional outfit. He is captured gesturing with his hands while speaking, set against a background of lush green foliage.
politics|

Government Boosts Allowances for Traditional Authorities Amid NPP Leadership Critique

The Ghanaian government has announced a significant increase in the quarterly adjudication allowance for traditional authorities, raising it from GH¢30,000 to GH¢50,000, effective April 1, 2026. This 66.7% increase was revealed by Minister Ahmed Ibrahim during a visit to the Volta Regional House of Chiefs. The initiative is part of President Mahama's 'Reset Agenda' aimed at enhancing conflict resolution within communities and empowering traditional leaders to take on more judicial and developmental roles. In addition to the increased adjudication allowance, monthly allowances for Paramount Chiefs and Queen Mothers will also see substantial hikes, reflecting the government's commitment to strengthening traditional institutions. This move coincides with the government's introduction of the 24-Hour Model Market initiative, designed to promote modern commercial hubs and boost local economies and youth employment. In a related political context, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized the party's leadership for its top-down approach to internal reorganization, especially following their defeat in the 2024 elections. Speaking on *Eyewitness News*, he emphasized the need for a grassroots, bottom-up strategy to rebuild the party's structure as it prepares for the upcoming presidential primary on January 31, where Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is currently the frontrunner according to recent polls. Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe's comments highlight ongoing concerns about unity and effective leadership within the NPP as it navigates its future.

A digital graphic illustrating a sample Ghana private vehicle number plate with 'GREATER ACCRA' branding. The plate features a bold registration number '0002-GRXY', the Ghana flag, and a faint background map of the region.
politics|

Legal Challenges Emerge in Ghana: DVLA's Exclusive Contract and Ghana Law Society's Accreditation Under Fire

Ghana's legal landscape is currently facing significant challenges as two major lawsuits unfold. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is embroiled in a legal battle initiated by the Vehicle Embossment Manufacturers Association of Ghana (VEMAG). VEMAG is contesting the DVLA's decision to award an exclusive contract to Original Manufacturers and Embossment Company Limited for the production of new digital number plates, claiming this move harms licensed embossers and is unprecedented. The High Court has included the contracted company as a defendant in the case, which is set to resume on February 6, 2026. The DVLA defends its actions as being within its statutory authority to enhance vehicle registration processes. In a parallel development, a lawsuit has been filed against the Ghana Law Society (GLS) by Yaw Aning Boadu, seeking to halt its operations following its recent accreditation by the General Legal Council (GLC). The plaintiff argues that the GLS's authority to issue legal practicing licenses is "ultra vires" and could lead to confusion within the legal profession, as these functions have traditionally been held by the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). This legal challenge comes shortly after the GLS's announcement of its new role, setting the stage for a contentious transition towards a multi-bar system in Ghana's legal fraternity.

A digital graphic illustrating a sample Ghana private vehicle number plate with 'GREATER ACCRA' branding. The plate features a bold registration number '0002-GRXY', the Ghana flag, and a faint background map of the region.
politics|

NPP Leadership Challenges Intensify Ahead of Presidential Primary

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares for its presidential primary on January 31, 2026, internal challenges and leadership critiques are coming to the forefront. Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member of the NPP, has voiced strong concerns regarding the party's current leadership strategy, advocating for a grassroots approach to rebuilding following the party's defeat in the 2024 elections. He warns that the existing top-down strategy could lead to further failures if local party members are not engaged effectively. In a related context, Joseph Osei Owusu, Chairman of the NPP Presidential Elections Committee, has called for a decisive leadership change, suggesting that the party should look to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for inspiration. He cites the leadership style of NDC's Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as a model for restoring order and discipline within the NPP, which he claims is currently suffering from a lack of cohesion. Meanwhile, a recent poll by Global Info Analytics indicates that former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the frontrunner in the upcoming primary, projected to secure 57% of the votes. The poll, which surveyed over 10,000 respondents, shows Bawumia leading significantly, particularly in the northern regions, while his competitors, Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, have varying levels of support in other regions. This data underscores the critical juncture the NPP finds itself at as it seeks to unify and strengthen its base ahead of the elections.

A promotional graphic for the Joy Prime television program 'Prime Insight' featuring the show's logo in large purple font. Below the title, the image displays headshots of four men who are featured as guests on the program, set against a clean white and purple background.
politics|

Political Turmoil and Violence: NPP's Internal Struggles and Election Day Shooting Investigation

The political landscape in Ghana is currently marked by significant challenges, including an ongoing investigation into a violent election-day shooting and internal strife within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Central East Regional Police Command is intensifying its search for a nomadic cattle herdsman linked to the December 2024 shooting, where unlicensed firearms were used. The prime suspect, Mujaheed Suraj, confessed to purchasing a weapon for GH₵4,000 from this herdsman, prompting police to focus on the illegal arms trade in the region. Authorities are urging community cooperation to report suspicious firearm activities as part of a broader operation to ensure voter safety in the Kasoa area. In parallel, the NPP is facing criticism from within its ranks as Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member, has publicly condemned the party's leadership for its ineffective top-down approach to rebuilding after its electoral defeat. He advocates for a grassroots strategy to unify the party ahead of the presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026. His remarks highlight the urgency for the NPP to engage its base effectively, especially with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia leading in polls for the upcoming 2028 elections. Additionally, Joy Prime will host a discussion on the NPP's peace pact and recent fuel price reductions, reflecting the party's ongoing efforts to address both political and economic issues in the country.

A line of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Nigeria are standing outdoors during an official ceremony. They are dressed in their signature white t-shirts with 'NYSC' branding and khaki trousers, with many raising their right hands as they appear to be taking an oath or reciting a pledge.
politics|

Concerns Mount as NYSC Orientation Begins Amid Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

The commencement of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation for the 2026 Batch A (Stream 1) has sparked significant anxiety among prospective corps members and their families due to escalating security threats in Nigeria. The orientation, set to begin on January 21, 2026, will mobilize approximately 650,000 graduates, with around 40% expected to participate in this stream. High-risk states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Borno, and Yobe are particularly concerning, as they have recently experienced a surge in bandit attacks and kidnappings. Despite assurances from NYSC officials regarding safety measures, many corps members express trepidation about the journey to their camps and the orientation itself, with about 8,000 corps members slated to attend in these volatile areas. Parents and local authorities are advocating for enhanced security protocols, including the strategic relocation of some orientation camps to safer zones. The National PTA president has called for increased collaboration between security forces and traditional leaders to ensure the safety of the corps members during this critical period. As the orientation approaches, the need for a thorough review of camp locations and security measures remains paramount to alleviate the fears of those involved.

A photograph of the facade of The Chief Magistrate's Court in Kisoro, Uganda. The building features large blue text identifying the institution and displays the Ugandan coat of arms above the name, alongside the national flag colors.
politics|

Election Disputes in Uganda and NPP Peace Pact Highlight Political Tensions

In recent political developments, two parliamentary candidates from Uganda's Kisoro District, Sam K Bitangaro and John Nizeyimana Kamara, have initiated legal proceedings for a recount of votes from the January 15, 2026 General Election. They allege significant irregularities in the counting process, including improper vote tallying and ballot stuffing, which have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The candidates have filed their applications at the Kisoro Chief Magistrate's Court, invoking Section 74 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which permits recounts when doubts about the results arise. The court is expected to rule on the matter soon, amidst growing scrutiny of the elections due to multiple allegations of misconduct. In a separate but equally significant political context, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana has underscored the importance of a peace pact among aspirants of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during a signing ceremony for the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for January 31. Akufo-Addo emphasized that the peace pact is a binding moral obligation aimed at ensuring unity and stability within the party. He urged all candidates to respect the democratic process and prioritize collective strength over individual ambitions, reinforcing that the NPP's success relies on cohesion and support for the eventual winner. These events reflect the ongoing political dynamics in both Uganda and Ghana, highlighting the critical importance of electoral integrity and party unity in maintaining democratic processes.

President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana is captured speaking at a formal event, wearing a black suit and a pink patterned tie. He is positioned behind a podium with two Sennheiser microphones visible in the foreground against a neutral background.
politics|

Ayawaso East By-Election: Hajia Amina Adam to Contest as NDC Prepares for Primaries

Hajia Amina Adam, the widow of the late Ayawaso East MP Mahama Naser Toure, has officially declared her candidacy for the upcoming parliamentary by-election scheduled for March 3, 2026. Her decision follows strong encouragement from constituents and local leaders who wish for her to continue her late husband's legacy. Despite the personal grief she faces, Amina Adam expressed her commitment to serving the community and addressing the needs of her constituents. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is also gearing up for its parliamentary primary elections, which will take place on February 7, 2026. Nomination forms for candidates will be priced at GH¢50,000, with a filing fee of GH¢40,000. This by-election is significant as it reflects the party's efforts to maintain its influence in the Ayawaso East constituency following the loss of its representative. In related political news, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former Tourism Minister, has publicly supported Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's candidacy for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership. Mercer praised Bawumia's vision, competence, and integrity, highlighting his innovative contributions to digitalization and economic reforms, which have garnered support from various party leaders as the NPP prepares for the 2028 elections.

A photograph of the facade of The Chief Magistrate's Court in Kisoro, Uganda. The building features large blue text identifying the institution and displays the Ugandan coat of arms above the name, alongside the national flag colors.
politics|

Akufo-Addo Calls for Unity Among NPP Aspirants Ahead of Presidential Primaries

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to treat the recently signed peace pact as a binding commitment to unity and respect during the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2024. Speaking at a signing ceremony in Accra, Akufo-Addo emphasized that the peace pact is not merely a formality but a serious obligation that all candidates must honor. He called on aspirants to conduct themselves with dignity and to accept the election results graciously, prioritizing party cohesion over personal ambitions. The former President reiterated that the collective strength of the NPP is far greater than that of any individual member, highlighting the importance of supporting the eventual winner to maintain unity within the party. This initiative aims to foster a peaceful electoral environment as the party prepares for its primaries, reinforcing the need for solidarity among its members.

President John Dramani Mahama is depicted delivering a formal address from behind a lectern. He is positioned in front of the flag of Ghana and a wood-paneled wall, wearing a dark button-down shirt.
politics|

Bawumia Endorsed as NPP's Best Hope for 2028 Elections Amid Calls for African Unity

Former Tourism Minister Andrew Egyapa Mercer has publicly endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the strongest candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2028 general elections. In a series of interviews, Mercer emphasized Bawumia's national appeal, political experience, and leadership qualities as critical advantages for the party. He noted that Bawumia's credibility and trust among voters, cultivated through years of public service, are essential for electoral success. Mercer highlighted that over 100 former NPP parliamentary candidates support Bawumia's leadership bid, showcasing a growing coalition rallying behind him. Mercer also praised Bawumia's vision and competence, asserting that his ideas on digitalization and economic reform reflect a clear understanding of contemporary challenges. This endorsement comes as the NPP prepares for a competitive election cycle, with Mercer expressing confidence in Bawumia's ability to unite the party and appeal to a broad electorate. In a related political discourse, former President John Dramani Mahama urged African leaders to prioritize skills development, regional cooperation, and domestic production to enhance global competitiveness. Speaking at the Accra Reset Davos Convening, Mahama warned that Africa risks falling behind if it does not innovate and invest in education aligned with economic demands. He called for collaboration among African nations to establish manufacturing hubs and improve infrastructure, linking these efforts to better governance and increased investor confidence. Mahama's remarks underscore the importance of unity and proactive measures in addressing the continent's challenges.