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.

Nana Yaw Adutwum calls for private capital for $2bn Accra-Kumasi expressway
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Nana Yaw Adutwum calls for private capital for $2bn Accra-Kumasi expressway

Dr. Nana Yaw Adutwum, the Director of Policy for the United Party (UP), has called on the government to involve private investors in financing the $2 billion Accra-Kumasi Expressway project. Adutwum argued that by utilizing private capital for large-scale infrastructure, the state could redirect its existing public funds to settle outstanding debts, particularly the arrears and allowances owed to the nation's educators. He expressed concern that the government is committing such a significant sum of public money while critical payments for teachers remain unresolved. The UP policy director specifically highlighted that many teachers are still waiting for promotion arrears and deprived area allowances. He criticized the decision to prioritize over $2 billion for the expressway construction over these pressing financial obligations. This call for a shift in funding strategy comes at a sensitive time for the education sector, as three major teachers' unions recently suspended a strike action following negotiations with the Council of State regarding their welfare and payments. While Adutwum commended the general objectives of the expressway project, he suggested that alternative financing models are necessary to alleviate the current financial pressure on the treasury. He argued that involving the private sector would allow the government to address the immediate needs of workers without abandoning strategic infrastructure goals. By shifting the $2 billion burden away from the public purse, he believes the government can more effectively manage its labor relations and ensure that educators are fairly compensated for their service. The proposal underscores a growing debate on the use of public-private partnerships to bridge Ghana's infrastructure gap without compromising social spending. Adutwum’s position emphasizes that human capital and the fulfillment of labor contracts should be prioritized alongside national development projects. The government has not yet issued a formal response to the suggestion of seeking private investment to replace the current public funding model for the expressway.

John Dramani Mahama to import electric wheelchairs for PWDs
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John Dramani Mahama to import electric wheelchairs for PWDs

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a new government initiative to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to improve their mobility and independence. Speaking during his "Resetting Ghana Tour" at a Citizens' Engagement in Goaso, the President explained that the move is part of a pilot project designed to address the physical barriers faced by Ghanaians who require advanced mobility aids. The project will be overseen by the National Council on Persons with Disability, with the President indicating that the programme will be sustained annually if the pilot phase proves successful. In addition to the mobility initiative, President Mahama announced a significant increase in the financial support allocated to the disability community through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). The specific portion of the fund earmarked for PWDs is set to rise from three percent to five percent. This adjustment is intended to provide more substantial resources for local-level empowerment and social interventions, ensuring that disability-inclusive development is better funded at the district level. To further safeguard the rights of the community, the President revealed plans to amend the Persons with Disability Act to enhance the legal protections and living conditions of PWDs. He also highlighted broader social support measures, including the Free Primary Healthcare Programme and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. These programmes are intended to alleviate the financial burden on PWDs and other vulnerable citizens when seeking treatment for chronic diseases and general healthcare services.

NDC orders removal of oversized campaign posters within five days
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NDC orders removal of oversized campaign posters within five days

The Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a mandatory directive for all members and parliamentary aspirants to remove oversized campaign posters and banners. The party has set a strict five-day deadline for compliance, warning that failure to adhere to the new regulations will result in disciplinary action. This move is part of a broader effort by the governing party to maintain order and discipline during its internal reorganization process. According to a statement issued on October 9, 2026, the FEC has established specific dimensions for all campaign materials to ensure uniformity and modesty. Under the new guidelines, posters and banners must not exceed five feet in width and eight feet in height. Furthermore, the display of these materials is now strictly restricted to constituency offices, regional offices, and designated election grounds. Any campaign materials found outside these specified zones or exceeding the permitted size limits must be removed by the end of the five-day grace period. The NDC leadership emphasized that these regulations are intended to ensure a fair environment for all participants and to prevent an unruly display of campaign materials. By standardizing the size and placement of banners, the FEC aims to promote a culture of discipline and modesty within the party ranks. The directive follows a recent meeting of the executive committee and signals a firm stance on internal regulations as the party prepares for its upcoming internal elections under the administration of President John Mahama.

John Mahama says US seeks to review rejected $109m health compact
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John Mahama says US seeks to review rejected $109m health compact

President John Mahama has revealed that the United States government is seeking to renegotiate a $109 million health compact previously rejected by the Ghanaian Cabinet. Speaking at a Citizens' Engagement event in Goaso, the President explained that the initial agreement was turned down because its provisions posed a threat to Ghana's sovereignty and the privacy of its citizens. The compact was originally intended to replace certain funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) but failed to pass cabinet scrutiny due to specific problematic clauses. According to President Mahama, the rejected terms included requirements for Ghana to share sensitive national pathogen profiles and private medical records of its citizens with the U.S. government. Mahama characterized these initial demands as "humiliating" to the nation's autonomy, asserting that the Cabinet could not overlook the risks associated with such data sharing. The President emphasized that while international partnerships are valued, they must not compromise the country’s fundamental rights or the security of its citizens' health data. The United States has now indicated a willingness to discuss and potentially revise the controversial clauses that led to the deadlock. Mahama noted that this outreach provides an opportunity for fresh dialogue to address the specific concerns raised by the Ghanaian government during the first round of reviews. He reaffirmed that Ghana remains open to foreign assistance and collaboration in the health sector, provided the final terms respect the nation's sovereign rights and ensure the absolute confidentiality of its people's medical information.

President John Dramani Mahama wears a white hard hat and a high-visibility safety vest while speaking at a project site inspection. He is surrounded by a diverse group of people, including security personnel in camouflage and various officials, as part of his regional project tour.
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John Dramani Mahama concludes two-day Resetting Ghana tour of Ahafo Region

President John Dramani Mahama has completed a two-day "Resetting Ghana" tour of the Ahafo Region, a working visit focused on assessing infrastructure projects and engaging with local stakeholders. The tour served as a platform for the President to review progress on key government initiatives and reiterate his administration’s commitment to equitable development across the country. During the visit, the President emphasized the importance of direct citizen engagement and inspected several ongoing developments in the security, healthcare, and agricultural sectors. In the agricultural sector, President Mahama highlighted the "Feed Ghana" Programme, which aims to boost local food security and industrialization. He inspected a Poultry, Meat, and Feed Processing Plant in Bechem, noting that the facility is 50% complete and intended to transform the town into a poultry hub. Minister of Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku, who accompanied the President, reported that domestic poultry production has already increased from 4.7% to 22% due to government support. Additionally, the President visited the Asunafo North Farmers Services Centre, part of a nationwide initiative to establish 50 centres. Fifteen of these centres are currently under construction and are expected to be operational by the end of the first quarter of 2027. Security and health infrastructure also featured prominently during the tour. In Goaso, the President commissioned a new regional office for the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) to strengthen local security operations. He also inspected several nearly completed Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and a solar-powered irrigation system. Addressing a Citizens’ Engagement event, the President outlined the "Big Push" infrastructure development programme and the MahamaCares healthcare fund. He also announced that road rehabilitation in regional capitals would be prioritized in preparation for Ghana’s upcoming 70th Independence Anniversary. The tour concluded with President Mahama expressing gratitude to the people of the Ahafo Region for their support in the 2024 general elections, where the NDC won five of the six parliamentary seats in the region. He reassured traditional leaders and residents that his government remains focused on addressing the specific development needs of the region. This visit to Ahafo marks a significant step in the ongoing national tour, as the President continues to monitor the implementation of policies designed to improve the livelihoods of Ghanaians.

A man dressed in a suit and tie stands in the aisle of a public transport bus, gesturing as he appears to be preaching to the seated passengers. The perspective is from the back of the vehicle, showing passengers in their seats facing the speaker.
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John Dramani Mahama clarifies ban on preaching in moving vehicles

President John Dramani Mahama has clarified the scope of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), stating that the ban on preaching and hawking applies only when commercial vehicles are in motion. Speaking during a tour of the Ahafo Region, the President emphasized that the measure is strictly intended to ensure driver concentration and enhance passenger safety. He sought to address public concerns by explaining that the regulation does not target religious expression itself but focuses on eliminating distractions during transit. Under the provisions of L.I. 2519, which serves as an amendment to earlier traffic legislation, individuals are prohibited from preaching or selling goods while a public transport vehicle is moving. President Mahama clarified that these activities remain permissible when vehicles are stationary, such as at bus terminals or during scheduled stops. The regulation originally included stiff penalties for offenders, including the possibility of fines or imprisonment, as part of a broader effort to reduce road accidents caused by lapses in driver attention. The implementation of the law has sparked significant national debate, resulting in a temporary suspension of enforcement to facilitate broader stakeholder consultations. In communities like Keta in the Volta Region, reactions have been mixed; while some residents support the ban for its safety benefits, others view it as an infringement on religious freedom and the tradition of bus evangelism. Conversely, the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have expressed disappointment over the suspension, calling for the immediate enforcement of the regulation to protect their members and passengers. Following the pushback from religious leaders and commercial transport groups, the government is now seeking a balanced approach to the legislation. President Mahama’s clarification aims to resolve misunderstandings and reassure the public that the right to evangelize remains protected outside of active travel moments. Further communication from the authorities is expected as the government continues to engage with transport unions and religious bodies before deciding on the next steps for the regulation.

A close-up photograph of a man, identified in the context as Bataglia, wearing a light green traditional Ghanaian smock. He is looking directly at the camera with a focused expression against a blue and white studio backdrop.
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John Mahama suspends NSA Director-General over $623,000 visa fraud

President John Mahama has suspended the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, as the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) launches a probe into an alleged $623,000 visa fraud scheme. The controversy centers on the facilitation of visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with investigators examining claims that approximately $623,000 was collected from travelers for assistance. The investigation follows reports of irregularities in personnel lists submitted to the United States and Canadian embassies and has sparked a national debate over accountability in sports governance. Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has alleged that over 30 individuals were falsely represented as board members of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in documentation sent to the U.S. Embassy. Assafuah called for the immediate suspension of GTA CEO Maame Efua Sekyi-Aidoo Houadjeto to allow for a transparent investigation into the misrepresentation. Similarly, the Minority in Parliament is demanding the dismissal and prosecution of Sports Minister Kofi Adams and other top officials, citing concerns over the credibility of the visa application process and potential financial misconduct. The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has defended its conduct, with special aide Wonder Sitsofe Mandel stating there is no evidence that Minister Kofi Adams benefited financially from the arrangements. Mandel clarified that the ministry is not shielding any individuals and is cooperating fully with the CID. He also addressed rumors regarding the Minister's security detail, confirming that a police officer included in the visa application returned to Ghana as scheduled on July 1. Abass Nurudeen, CEO of the Ghana Social Investment Fund, described the Minority's demands as unfounded, urging the public to wait for substantiated facts from the ongoing investigation. Senyo Hosi, Convener of the OneGhana Movement, emphasized that the scandal must be viewed through the lens of constitutional accountability. Speaking on JoyNews, Hosi noted that public officials have allegedly leveraged their offices to facilitate fraud, which damages public trust and the nation's international reputation. He called for adherence to principles of probity and transparency as outlined in the 1992 Constitution. As the CID investigation continues, President Mahama has indicated that further actions will be taken once the findings are finalized to ensure all responsible parties face the law.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says Ghana will apply for BRICS partner status

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that Ghana intends to apply for partner-country status within the BRICS economic bloc, rather than seeking full membership. Speaking on TV3's "Key Points" on October 10, 2026, the Minister explained that this strategic decision is designed to broaden the nation's economic and diplomatic horizons while strictly adhering to its long-standing policy of non-alignment. By pursuing the partner-country category, Ghana aims to formalize cooperation with the expanded 11-member bloc—which represents a significant portion of global GDP—without jeopardizing its established relationships with Western allies. The Minister emphasized that the move aligns with national interests as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution and draws inspiration from the strategic diversification strategies first championed by President Kwame Nkrumah. With Ghana’s GDP projected by the World Bank to reach $114.2 billion and a growth rate of 6.0%, the government views the Global South as a vital arena for shifting from a low-value commodity exporter to a participant in high-value sectors such as technology and infrastructure. Ablakwa noted that Ghana already maintains robust trade ties with core BRICS members, including China, India, and South Africa, making a formal partnership a logical progression for the country's development agenda. Addressing opposition from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ablakwa described the Minority’s criticism as "disingenuous." He revealed that a technical committee report and cabinet memos from the previous Akufo-Addo administration had also evaluated the benefits of joining the bloc. According to the Minister, the previous government’s own assessments suggested that BRICS membership could enhance Ghana’s international influence and improve cooperation with Western nations. He urged for a sincere national discussion based on facts rather than political rivalry, asserting that the current path is a continuation of a legitimate national interest inquiry. However, the announcement has prompted calls for a comprehensive diplomatic and economic roadmap. Economist Prof. Godfred Bokpin warned that while diversification is beneficial, the government must proactively manage potential risks to traditional alliances, particularly with the United States. Similarly, legal practitioner Martin Kpebu and NPP Bono East Regional Secretary David Boakye have both suggested that partner status—rather than full membership—is a more pragmatic approach. They argued that such an arrangement allows Ghana to reap economic benefits and enhance its bargaining power without the more stringent requirements and potential ideological baggage associated with full admission. As Ghana moves forward with its application, it faces the challenge of persuading the current BRICS leadership that it brings unique value to the table. Unlike Nigeria, which already holds a partner designation, Ghana will need to leverage its political stability and cultural influence to secure the necessary consensus from existing members. The final outcome of this bid will likely serve as a test of Ghana's ability to maintain its "friend to all, enemy to none" foreign policy in an increasingly multipolar global environment.

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Ernest Yaw Anim commissions 16-seater sanitation facility in Mampong Akrofonso

Member of Parliament for Kumawu, Ernest Yaw Anim, has inaugurated a new 16-seater sanitation block in Mampong Akrofonso, located within the Ashanti Region. The project is designed to enhance local hygiene standards and provide residents with a modern, dignified facility. This initiative forms part of the Member of Parliament's broader strategy to address infrastructure deficits and improve the living conditions of his constituents through targeted social interventions. During the commissioning ceremony, Mr. Anim highlighted the substantial investment required to complete the facility and underscored the necessity for local ownership. He urged the residents and the community leadership to establish a robust maintenance culture to ensure the facility remains functional for many years. The MP stated that his office remains focused on delivering essential services that directly impact the health and well-being of the people in Mampong Akrofonso and the wider Kumawu area. Nana Baffour Gyimah, the local chief of Mampong Akrofonso, welcomed the project with gratitude, noting that it represents the first significant sanitation upgrade the community has received in over 18 years. He commended Mr. Anim for his responsiveness and dedication to the needs of the electorate, remarking that the new facility would go a long way in ending open defecation and improving the overall environmental health of the township. Beyond this sanitation project, Mr. Anim reaffirmed his commitment to driving development through various sectors, including healthcare, education, and job creation. He noted that several other initiatives are currently in the pipeline to ensure that all parts of the Kumawu constituency benefit from government and parliamentary interventions. The inauguration ceremony was attended by community elders, local officials, and residents who celebrated the long-awaited improvement to their local infrastructure.

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in full tactical gear and a face mask stands face-to-face with a civilian wearing a colorful purple and green hat. The officer's uniform bears an ICE Special Response Team patch, while a protest sign in the background reads "TRUMP MUST GO NOW!" near a white van and security fencing.
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Human Rights Watch condemns US for deporting 500 migrants to African nations

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has formally condemned the United States government for its policy of deporting migrants to third-party African countries, alleging that the practice violates international law and exploits the suffering of vulnerable individuals. Since the inauguration of President Donald Trump in early 2025, more than 500 migrants have been sent to various African nations under this controversial program. The rights group argues that the strategy is being used as a tool of deterrence by threatening forced relocation to unknown territories where deportees have no legal or personal ties. According to the HRW report, many of these individuals face severe risks of persecution upon arrival. The group highlighted significant human rights concerns, particularly for LGBT individuals and other marginalized groups who may face life-threatening conditions in their destination countries. HRW also alleged that the deportation process itself often involves abusive conditions, further exacerbating the trauma of those being forcibly moved. The report characterizes the policy as a circumvention of established legal protections for asylum seekers and those fleeing violence. In response to the criticism, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has defended the practice as a necessary measure to ensure public safety. The department maintains that the deportations are a component of broader efforts to manage migration flows and maintain border security. However, human rights advocates maintain that transferring the responsibility of migrant care to nations that may lack the infrastructure or human rights frameworks to support them creates a dangerous precedent for international refugee law. The condemnation comes as African nations grapple with the legal and social implications of receiving deportees who do not originate from their territories. For many observers, these bilateral agreements raise ethical questions regarding the externalization of border control by wealthier nations. As international pressure mounts, human rights organizations are calling for a review of these deportation protocols to ensure they align with global humanitarian standards and respect the fundamental rights of all migrants regardless of their origin.

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OccupyGhana urges EOCO and BNI to end punitive investigative methods

OccupyGhana has called on the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) to cease using punitive methods during their investigations. The pressure group argued that state agencies must uphold due process and avoid practices that effectively punish individuals before they are formally charged or tried in a court of law. By highlighting these concerns, the group seeks to ensure that investigative bodies operate within the bounds of constitutional safeguards. The group specifically highlighted the ongoing investigation into the Power Distribution Services (PDS) scandal as a primary example of procedural overreach. According to OccupyGhana, officials involved in the PDS case have faced prolonged restrictions, including the freezing of personal bank accounts and the imposition of high bail amounts. They pointed out that these measures have persisted for months without any formal charges being filed against the affected individuals, which they contend undermines the fundamental legal principle of being innocent until proven guilty. OccupyGhana emphasized that while the fight against corruption is vital for the nation, it must not come at the expense of established legal rights. They argued that serious allegations do not justify extended administrative restrictions and called for reforms to ensure that bail conditions are determined reasonably by the judiciary rather than investigative bodies. The group stressed the need for a balance where the state's power to investigate is strictly checked by the rights of the citizen. This demand comes amid broader public discussions regarding the conduct of state investigative agencies and the transparency of high-profile corruption probes. OccupyGhana’s intervention seeks to ensure that legal procedures remain fair and that investigative tools are not weaponized as a form of pre-emptive punishment. The group maintains that adhering to the rule of law is essential for the integrity of Ghana's democratic institutions and the long-term legitimacy of its anti-corruption efforts.

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Thywill Eyra Kpe urges queenmothers to lead rights advocacy

Mrs. Thywill Eyra Kpe, the Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, has called on traditional queenmothers to serve as primary advocates for women’s rights and the protection of girls. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony for the newly elected executives of the Volta Regional Queen Mothers Association in Ho, Mrs. Kpe emphasized that traditional leaders are uniquely positioned to drive inclusive development and champion the implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024. A central focus of the Director's address was the urgent need to address gender-based violence (GBV) within local communities. Mrs. Kpe urged the queenmothers to ensure that crimes against women and children are reported directly to the appropriate legal authorities rather than being settled privately through traditional mediation. By promoting a culture of public reporting and discouraging internal settlements for criminal matters, she argued that traditional leadership can better safeguard the rights of vulnerable individuals and ensure justice is served through the formal legal system. Addressing the political landscape, Mrs. Kpe highlighted the current low representation of women in political leadership roles across the Volta Region. She encouraged the Association to lead grassroots campaigns to boost the visibility and influence of women in governance, citing the provisions of the new Affirmative Action Act as a critical tool for progress. The Department of Gender expressed its full readiness to support the new executive team, underscoring the vital role that queenmothers play in the broader mission of community empowerment and national development.