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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Bobi Wine: The Ghetto President's Fight Against Museveni's 40-Year Rule

Bobi Wine, born Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, is gearing up for his second presidential election against long-time Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who has held power for 40 years. Known as the "Ghetto President," Wine has become a prominent figure in Ugandan politics, particularly among the youth, by addressing critical issues such as unemployment and human rights. His political journey began in 2017, and he has since founded the National Unity Platform (NUP), rallying support through his relatable persona and music that resonates with the struggles of ordinary Ugandans. As the January 15 election approaches, Wine faces numerous challenges, including a history of arrests and allegations of politically motivated charges, which he claims are attempts to suppress his movement. His previous electoral campaign in 2021 saw him secure 35% of the vote, a significant achievement against Museveni's 59%, despite the violence and intimidation that marred the election period, resulting in the deaths of over 100 political supporters. Despite the oppressive political landscape, Wine remains undeterred, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and liberation through democratic processes. His message continues to resonate with the populace, urging them to express their voices at the ballot box as he prepares to challenge Museveni once again. Bobi Wine's story has also gained international attention, including a feature in a National Geographic documentary, further solidifying his status as a key player in Uganda's political arena.

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Recent Political Developments in Ghana: Education Reforms and Infrastructure Commitments

In recent political news from Ghana, several key issues have emerged concerning education governance and infrastructure development. Dr. Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister of Education, has officially rejected a proposed 25% increase in academic fees at the University of Ghana, asserting that no authorization has been granted for such a hike. He emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and stated that any fees collected under the new structure must be reversed until compliance measures are established. The university clarified that the fee increase was driven by student leadership groups and lacked official approval. In a related education matter, the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has voiced strong objections to the inauguration of the new Scholarship Authority Board, citing the absence of student representation as a significant oversight. NUGS, representing over 12.5 million students, is calling for immediate dialogue with the government to amend the Board's composition to include student voices, which they argue is essential for fair governance and effective scholarship distribution. On the political front, Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, CEO of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications, criticized the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, claiming it left the country on a dangerous economic trajectory. He praised President John Dramani Mahama's return to power for stabilizing the economy and noted the absence of scandals during his first year in office, highlighting the importance of accountability in governance. Additionally, Member of Parliament John Dumelo has made a commitment to enhance road infrastructure in his Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, aiming to complete all road projects by 2028. He expressed gratitude to private sector partners for their support in these initiatives, emphasizing community collaboration as a key element in achieving this goal. These developments reflect ongoing discussions and commitments in Ghana's political landscape, particularly concerning education and infrastructure.

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Recent Political Developments: Court Dismisses Election Petition and NDC Responds to Controversy

In recent political developments in Ghana, the Koforidua High Court has dismissed an election petition challenging the victory of Frank Asiedu Bekoe (Protozoa) as the Member of Parliament for Suhum. The petition, filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate Prince Addo and former MP Oboafo Kwadwo Asante, was ruled unmeritorious by Justice George Krofa Addae, who stated that the petitioners failed to provide sufficient evidence of electoral irregularities. The court ordered the petitioners to pay GHc200,000 in costs, affirming the integrity of the electoral process and encouraging respect for the election results. In a separate incident, the NDC has clarified the presence of machetes with youths near former President John Dramani Mahama's office, asserting that they were intended for a cleanup exercise rather than any violent intent. This clarification comes in response to President Akufo-Addo's condemnation of the situation, where NDC members were filmed with the machetes. Malik Basintale, the NDC’s Deputy National Communications Officer, criticized the president for failing to address previous incidents of election-related violence from 2020, urging a focus on more pressing matters instead of the cleanup exercise.

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Statue of Jerry John Rawlings Unveiled in Dzelukope to Honor His Legacy

A statue of former President Jerry John Rawlings was unveiled in Dzelukope, Volta Region, on January 7, commemorating 33 years since he assumed office as the first President of Ghana's 4th Republic. The monument, funded by Mawuko Dzikunu and Clifford Selasi Kekeshie, is intended to preserve Rawlings' legacy and inspire future generations. During the unveiling ceremony, NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia highlighted the statue's significance in promoting unity and accountability, traits associated with Rawlings' leadership. Local leaders praised Rawlings' contributions to Ghanaian politics and announced plans to name the NDC headquarters in his honor. The event also featured a wreath-laying ceremony and coincided with the sod-cutting for a new community library and museum, further emphasizing the community's commitment to education and remembrance.

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Political Developments in Ghana: Protests, Detention, and Leadership Debates

Recent political events in Ghana have sparked significant discussions and actions across various fronts. Approximately 2,000 rubber farmers in the Western region protested against proposed bans on raw rubber exports, arguing that such measures would harm their livelihoods and increase rural poverty. They presented a petition to the Western Regional Minister, emphasizing the need for existing regulations to remain in place and distancing themselves from the Association of Natural Rubber Actors of Ghana, which they feel misrepresents their interests. In another significant development, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to immigration status issues. His legal team clarified that the detention is procedural, linked to a pending petition for permanent residency filed by his son, a U.S. citizen. Ofori-Atta faces corruption charges in Ghana, and there are reports of an extradition order sent to U.S. authorities. His lawyer criticized delays by the Office of the Special Prosecutor in pursuing legal action against him, complicating his potential return to Ghana. Additionally, MP Kwaku Kwarteng has urged President John Mahama to implement tough economic reforms without fear of electoral backlash, highlighting the need for fiscal discipline as Mahama's term nears its end. Kwarteng criticized the government's inaction on pressing economic issues, including high interest payments and wage bills. On the legislative front, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Senior Advisor to the President, has voiced strong opposition to proposals aimed at lowering the presidential age limit from 40 to 30 years. He argues that individuals at 30 lack the necessary maturity and experience for such significant leadership roles, warning that Ghana's political landscape is susceptible to populism, which could lead to unsuitable candidates being elected. This ongoing debate reflects broader concerns about leadership qualifications and the future direction of Ghanaian politics.

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Kwaku Kwarteng Urges Tough Economic Reforms Amidst Declining Corruption Perception in Ghana

In a recent call for action, Kwaku Kwarteng, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, urged President John Mahama to implement necessary economic reforms without fear of electoral backlash. Kwarteng emphasized that fiscal discipline and accountability are crucial for Ghana's economic health, particularly in light of pressing issues such as the wage bill and interest payments. He warned that failure to act decisively could lead to repeating past economic mistakes, urging the President to prioritize urgent reforms. Simultaneously, Ghana faces challenges highlighted by the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released by Transparency International, which shows a decline in the country's score to 42 out of 100, ranking it 80th out of 180 countries. This marks Ghana's worst performance in five years, attributed to persistent issues like petty bribery, nepotism, and a lack of accountability in public services. Despite this decline, Ghana's score remains above the Sub-Saharan African average. Calls for increased patriotism and hard work were echoed by Rev. Stephen Wengam and Vice-President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. Additionally, President Mahama's Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), aimed at recovering assets from corrupt officials, has faced criticism for delays in prosecutions, leading to growing public skepticism regarding the accountability of the elite. The intersection of economic reform and anti-corruption measures is critical for advancing national development in Ghana.

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Kennedy Agyapong Campaign Critiques Bawumia's Endorsement Amidst Political Tensions

In a recent political development, the Kennedy Agyapong campaign has publicly criticized the endorsement of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia by several former parliamentary candidates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Spokesperson Kwasi Kwarteng accused these endorsers of attempting to "whitewash" Bawumia’s electoral record, particularly highlighting his poor performance in the last elections where he lost in 199 out of 276 constituencies and failed to secure a win in any of Ghana’s seven regions. Kwarteng emphasized that many NPP supporters opted for parliamentary candidates while rejecting Bawumia, reflecting a significant dissatisfaction within the party. He asserted that the endorsements from party elites would not sway polling station executives, who are expected to represent the true sentiments of the party on election day. This critique comes as the NPP gears up for its flagbearership contest, with internal divisions becoming increasingly apparent as candidates vie for support.

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NPP Seeks CID Investigation into Alleged Rigging Plot Amid Calls for Pan-African Reparations

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally requested the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to investigate serious allegations regarding a plot to rig its upcoming presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026. This request follows a petition from Alex Kwaku Tetteh, a member of the campaign team for aspirant Ken Ohene Agyapong, which accuses officials from the Electoral Commission of engaging in unlawful activities. The NPP's Presidential Elections Committee, in a letter dated January 6, has underscored the necessity of a thorough investigation, warning that Tetteh may face sanctions if the allegations are found to be unsubstantiated. Conversely, should the claims be validated, the party promises to take decisive action against those implicated. In a related political discourse, Prof. Kimani Nehusi has emphasized the urgent need for coordinated Pan-African efforts in addressing historical injustices through reparations. In an interview conducted at the Pan-African Progressive Front (PPF) headquarters in Accra, Nehusi articulated that reparations should not merely be viewed as acts of charity but as essential political actions that confront the legacies of enslavement and colonialism. He criticized fragmented activism and called for a disciplined, collective approach to reparations, linking it to broader struggles for accountability and justice. Nehusi's insights highlight the role of the PPF in fostering political education and reparations research across Africa and its diaspora, advocating for a unified movement to address global inequality.

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Ken Ofori-Atta Detained in the US Amid Visa Issues and Corruption Allegations

Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana's former Finance Minister, is currently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to visa complications as he seeks an extension for medical treatment. His visa is set to expire on February 14, 2025, and his lawyer, Frank Davies, has emphasized that applying for an extension is a standard procedure under such circumstances. Ofori-Atta faces multiple criminal investigations in Ghana related to financial misconduct and corruption during his tenure from 2017 to 2024, including an Interpol Red Notice issued by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. His legal team argues that the charges against him are politically motivated and are challenging any extradition requests. Despite being labeled a fugitive in the past, Ofori-Atta has indicated his willingness to return to Ghana to resolve these issues. Davies clarified that Ofori-Atta is not unlawfully in the U.S., as he entered on a valid visa and is actively seeking to change his immigration status. Meanwhile, in a separate political development, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Ranking Member on Parliament's Economy and Development Committee, has called for a public inquiry into over $300 million losses from the Gold-for-Reserves program, asserting that Parliament's oversight is essential despite the Bank of Ghana's internal investigations. Nkrumah criticized the BoG for initially denying the losses but later acknowledging them under pressure from the IMF, highlighting the need for transparency regarding these significant financial issues.

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Ghana's Political Landscape: Mahama's First Year Marked by Scrutiny and Achievements

As Ghana reflects on President John Dramani Mahama's first year in office, the political landscape is characterized by a mix of scrutiny, achievements, and calls for accountability. Apostle Dr. John Kpikpi of the Progressive Alliance of Ghana has urged for greater transparency regarding recovered public funds, emphasizing that citizens deserve clarity on corruption-related financial recoveries. This call comes amidst criticisms from the Minority in Parliament, who have condemned Mahama's administration for economic mismanagement, citing a $214 million loss in the Gold-for-Reserves program and rising insecurity. They argue that despite some positive economic indicators, such as GDP growth, the government's policies have led to a relapse into ineffective governance. Conversely, Mahama's supporters highlight notable achievements during his tenure, including decreased inflation and improved national indebtedness. His governance style, which focuses on competency-based appointments and social cohesion, has been praised for fostering a renewed sense of hope in Ghana's democracy. Key lessons from his first year include the importance of electing competent leaders and maintaining accountability. In a related development, the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has announced plans to petition the President for student representation on the Ghana Scholarships Authority Board, asserting that students must have a voice in decisions affecting their educational funding. Meanwhile, the High Court in Koforidua dismissed a petition challenging the election of Frank Asiedu Bekoe of the New Patriotic Party as the winner of the 2024 Parliamentary election for Suhum, ruling that the petition lacked merit and awarding costs against the petitioner. This legal ruling further underscores the ongoing political dynamics as Ghana navigates its governance challenges and electoral processes.

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US Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tankers Amid Escalating Sanctions

In a significant escalation of its efforts to undermine the Venezuelan government, the United States has seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela in the Atlantic Ocean. The operation, which involved British military support, targeted the Marinera, among other vessels, as part of a broader strategy to control oil flows following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. This move is part of the U.S. administration's intensified actions against ships transporting sanctioned Venezuelan oil. Furthermore, the U.S. is considering a selective rollback of sanctions on Venezuelan oil to facilitate negotiations, potentially allowing for the refinement and sale of up to 50 million barrels of oil. This could lead to a decrease in global crude prices. However, the actions have drawn sharp criticism from China and Russia, who have condemned the U.S. for what they characterize as 'bullying' tactics, raising concerns about escalating international tensions over Venezuela's political situation.

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Martin Kpebu Declares Late President Atta Mills as Ghana's Best Leader

In a recent interview, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu praised the late President John Evans Atta Mills as the best leader of Ghana's Fourth Republic. Kpebu highlighted Mills' integrity and anti-corruption efforts, asserting that despite his brief time in office from 2009 until his untimely death in 2012, Mills' leadership was exceptional. He recounted a significant moment at Tema Port where Mills displayed humility by reassuring customs officers who were fleeing during a crisis. Kpebu emphasized that Mills' character not only shaped domestic governance but also had a positive impact on international relations, citing former US President Barack Obama's visit to Ghana as a testament to Mills' leadership. Known for his commitment to peace and economic stability, Atta Mills remains a symbol of integrity in African politics, according to Kpebu.