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.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is pictured speaking at a political event, wearing a light blue branded shirt and spectacles. He has his right arm outstretched with three fingers raised, while standing behind a microphone against a yellow background with red drapery.
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Mahama Advocates for Skills and Unity in Africa Amidst Bawumia's Rising Popularity in NPP Race

In a recent address at the Accra Reset Davos Convening, former President John Dramani Mahama urged African leaders to prioritize skills development, regional cooperation, and local production to enhance the continent's competitiveness in the global economy. Mahama warned that without innovation and a focus on education aligned with modern economic demands, Africa risks losing the support of its youth. He advocated for investments in digital skills, green energy, and manufacturing capabilities, emphasizing the need for stronger regional integration and collective negotiation on global economic issues to boost Africa's influence. Furthermore, he highlighted the urgency of reducing dependency on external suppliers by increasing domestic production of essential goods, linking these reforms to improved governance and investor confidence. In a separate political development, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former MP, has predicted that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will secure nearly 70% of the votes in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential race. Mercer attributed Bawumia's anticipated success to his strong grassroots support and accessibility, suggesting that such a victory could significantly bolster the party's position ahead of the 2028 general elections. This prediction comes at a time when the NPP is gearing up for internal elections, with Bawumia emerging as a prominent candidate.

The image shows a portrait of a man wearing glasses and a traditional cap. He is dressed in a light blue shirt and appears to be seated in an office setting, with a blurred background. The lighting is well-balanced, highlighting his features.
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Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna: Community in Fear as Bandits Demand Motorcycles

In a shocking incident on January 18, 2026, the Kurmin Wali community in southern Kaduna witnessed the mass abduction of 177 Christian worshippers during a coordinated attack on multiple churches. This marks the second such attack in just a week, leaving the community paralyzed with fear and prompting residents to flee their homes, leading to abandoned farms and closed schools. Initial reports from local authorities dismissed the incident as mere rumors; however, police later confirmed the abduction, highlighting the ongoing security crisis in the region. Survivors recounted how armed men stormed the churches during worship, forcing congregants into the forest. Rather than demanding a monetary ransom, the assailants have requested the return of motorcycles lost during recent military operations against bandit camps. Military sources suggest that this abduction may be a retaliatory act by bandits fleeing intensified military efforts in nearby areas. Community leaders are now calling for urgent government intervention to ensure the safe return of the victims and to enhance local security measures, as fears persist among residents who feel increasingly vulnerable amid ongoing violence.

The image shows a man in a yellow traditional smock and matching kufi hat addressing the media during an outdoor event. He is flanked by two high-ranking officials in brown uniforms, likely from the Ghana Prisons Service, while numerous recruits in white shirts are visible in the background under canopies.
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Interior Minister Attributes Successful Security Services Recruitment to Digital Reforms

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has credited significant digital reforms for the successful recruitment process of internal security services. During his visit to the Prisons Borstal Recruitment Screening Centre in Accra, he highlighted that these reforms were necessary due to previous recruitment flaws, including corruption and irregularities such as the sale of recruitment slots. The new fully digital recruitment cycle enhances transparency, fairness, and efficiency, effectively eliminating past exploitative practices. Mubarak emphasized that the comprehensive digital approach allows for improved communication with candidates and a more orderly recruitment process overall.

The image shows the official logo of COMAC, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies. The logo features 'COMAC' in large grey letters with a stylized flame icon in the red, green, and gold colors of the Ghana flag, followed by the full organization name in black text below.
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COPEC and COMAC Clash Over Star Oil's Fuel Price Advocacy

Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has publicly criticized the treatment of Star Oil Limited following the company's advocacy for fuel price reductions. Amoah argues that the backlash against Star Oil highlights significant flaws in Ghana's petroleum pricing framework, particularly the current price floor policy, which he believes should be replaced with a price ceiling to better manage excessive pricing by oil marketing companies. He described the industry's reaction as unjust and harmful to Star Oil's corporate image, especially after the company suspended its membership in the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) due to dissatisfaction with how its concerns were represented. In response, Dr. Riverson Oppong, CEO of COMAC, denied allegations that the chamber is targeting Star Oil. He clarified that COMAC's policies aim to protect industry practices and ensure fair representation for all members. Dr. Oppong emphasized that the chamber is committed to constructive dialogue and is currently collaborating with the National Petroleum Authority to evaluate the effectiveness of the price floor policy. He announced that COMAC would issue a public statement to clarify its position and update stakeholders on ongoing discussions regarding compliance and pricing strategies.

This is a close-up shot of Osei Owusu, likely speaking at an event or giving an interview. He is wearing an orange, patterned shirt and appears to be in a room with some other people or equipment in the background. The photo is well-lit and focused.
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NPP Prepares for Presidential Primaries: 211,849 Delegates to Vote Under EC Oversight

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is gearing up for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, with 211,849 delegates expected to cast their votes at 333 polling centers across 276 constituencies. Polling will commence at 7:00 AM and conclude at 2:00 PM. Joseph Osei Owusu, the NPP Chairperson, has confirmed that all preparations, including security measures and voting regulations, are in place, with the Electoral Commission (EC) overseeing the election to ensure a credible process. Notably, proxy voting has been abolished to enhance the integrity of the election. Five candidates are vying for the nomination: Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum. In recent interviews, Osei Owusu emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the internal election process. He reassured candidates that the election committee has established clear rules, which were communicated to all participants, including those unable to attend meetings. He highlighted the committee's collaboration with the EC to handle voting logistics and security arrangements, which has helped build confidence among candidates. Despite some concerns regarding specific polling stations, Osei Owusu noted that most participants are satisfied with the election preparations. His return to party duties has also been credited with restoring trust and cohesion within the NPP during this critical period, reflecting his commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process amidst internal challenges.

A close-up photograph of Nana Akufo-Addo, the former President of Ghana, speaking at a podium. He is dressed in a formal dark grey suit with a blue tie and his signature round spectacles, positioned in front of a microphone as if delivering a speech.
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Akufo-Addo Appointed to Lead Commonwealth Observer Group for Bangladesh Elections

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has been appointed to chair a 14-member Commonwealth Observer Group tasked with overseeing Bangladesh's parliamentary elections and a nationwide referendum scheduled for February 12, 2026. The announcement was made by Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on January 21, 2026. The Observer Group's mission is to ensure that the electoral processes are credible, transparent, and inclusive, aligning with Bangladesh's national laws and democratic principles. The group will consist of election specialists from various Commonwealth countries, who will operate independently and impartially. After the elections, a comprehensive report detailing their findings will be submitted to the Commonwealth Secretary-General and shared with relevant stakeholders, highlighting the significance of these elections for Bangladesh's democratic governance and stability.

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Ghana Mineworkers’ Union Confirms Regulatory Approval for Heath Goldfields to Resume Operations

The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU) has announced that all legal and regulatory barriers for Heath Goldfields have been cleared, enabling the company to restart operations at the Bogoso-Prestea mine. General Secretary Abdul-Moomin Gbana confirmed that the necessary mining operating permits and environmental clearances have been issued following a thorough review by the government, addressing community concerns regarding operational delays and permit issues. Gbana emphasized the importance of lawful oversight in mining operations, asserting that the Minerals Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources are responsible for regulating such activities. He defended the regulatory role of state institutions against community agitation, stating that citizen actions cannot replace lawful oversight. With all permits secured, Gbana expressed confidence that Heath Goldfields can proceed efficiently, promising a revival of mining activities that will benefit both the local community and the state.

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Lands Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Combat Illegal Mining Amid Violence

The Lands Ministry of Ghana has reiterated its dedication to fighting illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, following a violent incident involving the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). During a routine operation in the Bono Region, armed assailants ambushed NAIMOS personnel, resulting in one officer being injured and the attacker, identified as Abuu Ibrahim, being killed in the exchange of gunfire. The injured officer is currently receiving treatment at St. Matthew Catholic Hospital. Despite the escalating violence and threats faced by its officers, the Ministry emphasized that such attacks will not deter their ongoing anti-galamsey efforts, which are crucial for protecting Ghana's natural resources and environment. The Ministry has called for continued support from stakeholders to address the challenges posed by the increasing militarization of illegal mining activities. This commitment comes at a time when illegal mining poses significant environmental risks across the country, and the Ministry aims to ensure that its operations remain steadfast in the face of adversity.

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Bawumia Campaign Condemns Agyapong's Personal Attacks Amid NPP Presidential Race

The campaign team of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has strongly condemned personal attacks made by fellow New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful Kennedy Agyapong. Following Agyapong's allegations that Bawumia made disparaging comments about the late Albert Adu Boahen's health in relation to the 1996 NPP primaries, Bawumia's team labeled these claims as "baseless and unwarranted." They refuted Agyapong's assertions, clarifying that the comments originated from Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiaku, not Bawumia himself. In a press release, the Bawumia campaign emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and truthfulness in political discourse, urging Agyapong to retract his statements and apologize. The campaign's response has garnered support from social media users, who criticized Agyapong's conduct as "disgusting" and "despicable," questioning his loyalty to the party. In contrast, Bawumia has been praised for his calm demeanor amidst the provocations, with calls for a more respectful and constructive intra-party dialogue as the NPP prepares for its presidential contest.

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Family Demands Justice for Gilda Nortey After Stabbing by Former NPP Candidate Valentino Nortey

The family of Gilda Nortey is calling for justice following a shocking domestic violence incident involving her husband, Valentino Nii Noi Nortey, a former parliamentary candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP). On January 17, 2026, in Lower Paxton Township, Pennsylvania, Valentino allegedly stabbed Gilda multiple times during a heated argument that escalated after she threatened to divorce him. Family member David Gyapanin reported that despite her injuries, Gilda managed to drive herself to the hospital where she works and is currently recovering. Valentino Nortey, 41, has been charged with attempted homicide and is being held without bail, with a preliminary court hearing scheduled for January 26, 2026. The family is advocating for strict enforcement of U.S. laws to ensure accountability for Valentino's actions, expressing hope that justice will be served both in the U.S. and Ghana.

This is a close-up photograph of Ken Ofori-Atta, likely related to a news story about his case being pushed to April in a US court. His face is the primary subject, and he appears to be looking slightly to the side. The background is blurred.
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Ken Ofori-Atta's Extradition Case Adjourned Amid Corruption Allegations

Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta remains in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following a closed-door immigration hearing on January 20, 2026. The judge has deferred a decision regarding an extradition request from Ghana, citing insufficient evidence, and has scheduled a review for April 27, 2026. Ofori-Atta has been detained since January 6, 2026, amidst concerns over his immigration status and ongoing medical treatment for prostate cancer and post-COVID complications. In addition to his immigration issues, Ofori-Atta is under investigation by Ghana's Office of the Special Prosecutor for multiple alleged offenses, including corruption related to various contracts and financial dealings, particularly in the petroleum sector and infrastructure projects. The Special Prosecutor has issued an Interpol Red Notice for Ofori-Atta, who faces serious allegations of financial misconduct. Meanwhile, in Ghana's political landscape, the campaign team of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has condemned personal attacks in the New Patriotic Party's presidential race, specifically addressing comments made by fellow aspirant Kennedy Agyapong. Bawumia's team has called for respectful discourse and an apology from Agyapong, emphasizing the need to maintain integrity in political discussions.

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Court Orders Detention of Rival Bawku Naba Amid Protests

An Accra High Court has ordered the detention of Alhaji Seidu Abagre, known as the rival Bawku Naba, following his arrest on December 24, 2025. This decision comes after a mediation report from the Asantehene, which recommended Abagre's removal from his chieftaincy position. He faces multiple charges including provoking a riot, breach of peace, unlawfully impersonating a chief, and unlawful possession of firearms. Despite a bail application, the court denied his release, and the case has been adjourned to February 2, 2026. The detention has sparked significant unrest, with youth from the Mamprusi community staging protests outside the court, demanding Abagre's release. They argue that the charges against him are unfounded and that his detention is unjust. His attorney, Martin Kpebu, has announced plans to file a habeas corpus application on January 26, 2026, to challenge the legality of the detention. Kpebu has criticized the state's justification for the charges, emphasizing the need for a fair legal process. The situation remains tense as the community rallies for Abagre's freedom, highlighting the deep-seated issues surrounding chieftaincy disputes in the region.