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.

Hon. Abena Osei-Asare is captured speaking during a formal parliamentary proceeding, likely a session of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Ghana. She is seated next to a male official, with both individuals positioned behind microphones and nameplates on a panel.
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Dr. Mockshell Esinam Sunu summoned over GH‵341,229 salary payment

Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has summoned Dr. Mockshell Esinam Sunu, a senior medical officer from the Takoradi Hospital, to explain why she received GH‵341,229 in salary for a study leave she did not undertake. The committee is investigating the circumstances under which the officer continued to receive full pay for nearly two years while failing to attend her approved academic program in Germany. The payments in question reportedly spanned from September 2023 to August 2025. PAC Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare expressed serious concerns regarding the validation process at the facility level, questioning how the salary disbursements were authorized and maintained despite Dr. Sunu remaining in the country rather than traveling for her studies. The committee is seeking to determine whether the lapse was a result of administrative negligence or a deliberate circumvention of payroll controls. The PAC has directed the Ministry of Health to ensure Dr. Sunu appears before the committee to clarify her role in the transaction and provide a justification for the funds received. Beyond the specific case of the medical officer, the committee is focused on identifying the validating officials who approved the monthly payroll entries, as their roles are critical to ensuring accountability within the public health sector’s financial management. This investigation is part of the committee's broader mandate to review the Auditor-General’s reports and address irregularities in public spending. The PAC aims to establish whether the GH‵341,229 should be fully recovered and what disciplinary actions should be taken against the officers responsible for the oversight. The outcome of this case is expected to reinforce the need for stricter validation protocols across Ghana’s public institutions to prevent similar financial losses.

Nzema chiefs confer development chief title on Lands Minister Armah-Kofi Buah
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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah receives development title from Nzema chiefs

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has been conferred with the developmental chieftaincy title of "Ellembelle Anyunluhɔlə Belemgbunli" by the chiefs and people of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area. The title, which translates to the Development Chief of Ellembelle, was presented during a formal visit to the Minister in Accra by a delegation of sub-chiefs and queenmothers. The delegation was led by the Paramount Chief of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area, Awulae Blay IX, who praised the Minister's long-standing dedication to the region's progress. The honour specifically recognizes Mr. Buah’s contributions to local infrastructure and his commitment to upholding the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Awulae Blay IX highlighted the Minister's role in promoting "Nkrumafest," an annual event designed to keep the ideals of Dr. Nkrumah alive. The traditional leaders noted that such efforts are essential for preserving the cultural identity of the area and fostering a spirit of leadership and development among the Nzema people. Alongside the conferment, the traditional leaders presented several petitions regarding natural resource management in the region. They called for the sustainable revival of Adamus Resources Limited, emphasizing that the mining company is a critical source of local employment and economic stability. The chiefs urged the government to closely monitor the company’s revival plans to ensure that host communities benefit directly. Furthermore, the delegation proposed renaming the Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) to "Atuabo Gas" to enhance local ownership and better reflect the host community's contribution to the national economy. In his response, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah expressed his gratitude for the title and reaffirmed the government's commitment to the development of the Western Region. He assured the chiefs that their concerns regarding mining operations and infrastructure would be addressed, noting that the Ministry is focused on ensuring that natural resource extraction translates into tangible improvements for local citizens. He also pledged to continue his support for the Nkrumafest celebrations, stating that the honour serves as a motivation to do more for the Nzema area.

A group of prominent men, including media practitioners and officials, stand together on a stage at a formal event in Ghana. Behind them is a large digital backdrop displaying a "30th" anniversary logo with the word "MEDIA" partially visible. To the left, a podium with multiple microphones suggests a series of speeches or a press conference is taking place.
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Julius Debrah urges journalists to uphold ethics at GJA Awards launch

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called on Ghanaian journalists to prioritize accuracy, fairness, and strict adherence to ethical standards as the country approaches its 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards. Speaking at the official launch of the awards in Accra, Mr. Debrah underscored the media's indispensable role in sustaining Ghana's democracy. He urged practitioners to rigorously verify information before publication and to maintain a commitment to correcting errors, stressing that professional integrity remains the cornerstone of public trust. During his address, the Chief of Staff emphasized the need for modern journalists to respect privacy and adapt to the evolving digital landscape. He specifically called for enhanced training and collaboration with digital content creators to ensure that new media platforms uphold the same professional standards as traditional outlets. Mr. Debrah also urged the GJA Awards committee to remain steadfast in selecting winners based on innovation and integrity. The GJA President confirmed that 327 entries have been received for this year's competition, reflecting a high level of interest across the media landscape. Supporting the government’s stance, the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, reaffirmed the administration's dedication to protecting press freedom and the safety of journalists. He condemned recent reports of assaults on media personnel during military operations at Laboma Beach, assuring the public that investigations into these incidents would be conducted. Mr. Kwakye Ofosu highlighted Ghana's improved standing in global media indices but reminded stakeholders of the necessary distinction between the exercise of free speech and criminal behavior. Adding a legislative perspective, Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin encouraged the media to intensify investigative reporting on critical national issues, such as drug trafficking and its impact on Ghana's international reputation. He urged political leaders to engage constructively with the press to protect journalistic integrity. The 30th GJA Media Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 7, 2026, where President John Dramani Mahama is expected to deliver the keynote address.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs submits formal application for Ghana to join BRICS
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs submits formal application for Ghana to join BRICS

Ghana has officially applied to join the BRICS economic bloc, a move confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of a strategic shift to diversify the nation's international partnerships. This decision, which has received Cabinet approval under President John Mahama, aims to expand Ghana’s trade and financing options while fostering deeper cooperation with major emerging economies in the Global South. The BRICS group, which currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa among others, is increasingly viewed as a significant platform for developing nations seeking to reduce over-reliance on traditional Western economic structures. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has defended the application, noting that membership could significantly bolster Ghana’s development agenda by providing access to new markets and alternative investment sources. The bid has already gained traction on the international stage, with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, expressing support for Ghana’s aspirations during a recent diplomatic visit. The government maintains that joining the bloc will complement, rather than replace, its existing bilateral relationships, allowing the country to navigate a more multipolar global economy. Despite the executive's enthusiasm, the Minority in Parliament has raised concerns regarding the potential geopolitical fallout of the move. The caucus is demanding an urgent briefing to understand the implications for Ghana’s long-standing ties with Western allies. Highlighting the complexity of such a shift, the Minority has questioned the perceived haste in seeking full membership and suggested that Ghana should consider a more gradual approach, similar to the observer-status strategy adopted by other regional peers like Nigeria. They argue that a thorough analysis of the risks to existing trade agreements and aid programs is necessary before finalizing the commitment. The path forward for Ghana’s membership now depends on a consensus among the existing BRICS member states. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to engage with its international counterparts, the domestic debate is expected to intensify within the halls of Parliament. The upcoming briefing will likely serve as a critical platform for the government to outline its strategy for balancing its new Global South ambitions with its historical economic commitments, ensuring that the transition into the bloc serves the nation's long-term fiscal and diplomatic interests.

Samuel Nartey George called to the Ghana Bar with 1,568 new lawyers
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Samuel Nartey George called to the Ghana Bar with 1,568 new lawyers

The General Legal Council (GLC) officially admitted 1,568 newly qualified lawyers to the Ghana Bar during a ceremony in Accra on October 9, 2026. Among the prominent figures enrolled into the legal profession were the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. The event, attended by the upper echelons of the judiciary, underscores a growing trend of senior public officials and Members of Parliament seeking formal legal qualifications to bolster their roles in governance. Samuel Nartey George, the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and current cabinet minister, successfully completed his legal training following an academic journey that included an LLB from the University of London and an MSc from the London School of Economics. Speaking ahead of the ceremony, George expressed profound gratitude for the milestone, describing it as the start of a new professional chapter. He intends to balance his new legal status with his ongoing ministerial responsibilities within the Mahama administration. Joining him in the 2026 cohort was Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who at 60 years old emphasized the value of continuous education. Buah, whose career has been defined by his work in energy and petroleum policy, graduated from the University of Law in May 2026 with a degree in Professional Legal Practice. His call to the Bar is viewed as an inspiration for lifelong learning, demonstrating that professional development remains vital even after achieving high-ranking public office. The ceremony was presided over by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, with Judicial Secretary Musah Ahmed providing the keynote charge to the new practitioners. Ahmed stressed the critical importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining high ethical standards as the lawyers transition from students to officers of the court. The diverse group of new lawyers included several other Members of Parliament and media personalities, reflecting the broad appeal of legal education across various sectors of Ghanaian public life.

Former Ghana President John Kufuor and former NPP General Secretary John Boadu are captured in a shared moment during a courtesy visit. They are seated in an elegantly wood-paneled room featuring the Ghana flag and several framed historical photographs in the background.
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John Boadu leads NPP executives to seek counsel from Kufuor

National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, led the newly elected national executive committee on a courtesy call to former President John Agyekum Kufuor on October 8, 2026. The visit served as a formal introduction of the new leadership team to the elder statesman and an opportunity to seek his guidance as they begin their tenure. The executives expressed humility in their roles and acknowledged the importance of drawing on the experience of the party's founding members. During the meeting, Boadu highlighted the significance of Kufuor’s political history and his deep understanding of the party’s organizational roots. He emphasized that the leadership is committed to strengthening the NPP's internal structures and fostering unity across all levels of the party. The Chairman noted that the executives are dedicated to building on the foundation laid by past leaders to ensure the party remains a formidable force in Ghanaian politics and secures victory in the 2028 general elections. Following the party's national executive elections, where Boadu secured the chairmanship with 2,888 votes against Boakye Agyarko's 2,408 votes, the new leadership has prioritized reconciliation. Boadu shared that he has been actively trying to reach out to Mr. Agyarko and has already engaged in discussions with other prominent party figures, including Sammy Crabbe and Paul Afoko. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to unify the party after the internal contest. The visit to the former President's residence underscores the NPP’s tradition of consulting its senior leaders during transitions in administration. By seeking the counsel of former President Kufuor, the John Boadu-led executive team aims to reinforce the party's core values and strategic direction. The meeting concluded with the executives reaffirming their commitment to a cohesive party structure capable of responding to the needs of the electorate in the coming years.

Ghana Tourism Authority denies collecting $14,000 for World Cup visas
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Ghana Tourism Authority denies collecting $14,000 for World Cup visas

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially denied allegations that it collected between $7,000 and $14,000 from individuals to facilitate visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The rebuttal comes after the Minority in Parliament, led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), held a press conference accusing state officials and the National Sports Authority (NSA) of orchestrating a fraudulent visa application scheme. The GTA clarified that its role is strictly limited to tourism promotion and that it lacks the legal mandate to approve or issue visas, which remains the sole prerogative of diplomatic authorities. The controversy was fueled by Old Tafo Member of Parliament Vincent Ekow Assafuah, who named several individuals, including media personality Andy Dosty, as alleged beneficiaries of the scheme. Assafuah claimed that the GTA submitted names to the United States Embassy under the guise of official business to secure travel documents for non-employees. This has led to calls from the Minority for the immediate dismissal of Sports Minister Kofi Adams and GTA Chief Executive Officer Maame Afua Houadjeto. NPP communication team member Emmanuel Senyo Amekplenu argued that the Minister must step aside during investigations, describing the current handling of the situation as a sign of incompetence. In response, GTA CEO Maame Afua Houadjeto has strongly denied any personal involvement in the alleged racketeering. The Authority emphasized that participants are responsible for their own travel expenses and that any payments made to independent travel agents should not be confused with direct payments to the state agency. Meanwhile, representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have defended the Sports Minister. Wonder Madilo argued on Metro TV that the rejection of a visa application does not constitute evidence of criminal wrongdoing, while Rashid Tanko-Computer, the NDC Deputy Director of Elections, questioned the credibility of the $15,000 payment claims, suggesting they may be politically motivated. The fallout from the allegations has extended to the media landscape, with Andy Dosty expressing outrage over being named in the scandal and describing the claims as unfounded. Despite the political friction, the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the NSA have maintained that they are cooperating fully with an ongoing police investigation into the travel arrangements. As Ghana prepares for the upcoming tournament, the focus remains on whether these investigations will uncover institutional irregularities or if the allegations will be dismissed as partisan discourse.

Cassiel Ato Forson tasks local leaders to recover lost public funds
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Cassiel Ato Forson tasks local leaders to recover lost public funds

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has issued a strong call for the recovery and protection of public resources, asserting that the country cannot afford financial waste. Speaking in Tamale during a high-level engagement on the 2025 Auditor-General’s Report, Dr. Forson emphasized that ‐every cedi has a job‐ and must be directed toward essential services. He urged regional and local government authorities to show a renewed commitment to financial accountability, ensuring that every cedi collected is fully accounted for. The engagement brought together Regional Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to discuss practical steps for financial discipline. Dr. Forson urged these local leaders to act decisively on audit findings to safeguard financial resources. He highlighted that responsible management of public assets is critical to ensuring that state funds translate into tangible community benefits, such as improved healthcare, schools, and infrastructure projects. During the meeting, the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, commended the Finance Minister for his management of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). He noted that under the administration of President John Mahama, the timely and improved release of these funds has provided significant relief to local assemblies. Minister John contrasted the current funding environment with previous struggles over the last eight years, stating that MMDCEs are now experiencing unprecedented financial support to drive development. Dr. Forson’s address underscored the government's stance on fiscal responsibility at the local level. He called for a collective responsibility among all public officials to prevent future financial losses and maintain rigorous discipline in spending. The Minister concluded by urging local authorities to implement strict financial practices to ensure that the increased funding currently being released results in sustainable development for their respective communities.

President John Dramani Mahama is pictured speaking at a public gathering while wearing a blue denim shirt and sunglasses. He stands behind a microphone, addressing an audience against a backdrop of a building and security personnel.
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Government suspends ban on preaching and hawking in moving vehicles

The Ghanaian government has suspended the enforcement of Regulation 141 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), which prohibited preaching and hawking in moving commercial vehicles. This decision follows significant public backlash and concerns raised by religious leaders regarding the restriction of evangelism. Under the original regulation, violators faced fines ranging from GH₵120 to GH₵600 and potential prison sentences of up to eight months. The suspension is intended to allow for broader stakeholder consultations before a final decision is made on the provision. President John Mahama clarified the government's position, stating that the law was never intended as a blanket ban on religious expression. He emphasized that the regulations were specifically designed to ensure road safety by preventing driver distractions and maintaining passenger focus. According to the President, while preaching and trading are prohibited while a vehicle is in motion, these activities remain fully permitted when commercial vehicles are stationary at bus terminals or loading points. The clarification aimed to address misconceptions that the state was moving to suppress religious activities in public spaces. The suspension comes after high-profile appeals from religious figures and political leaders, including Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Member of Parliament for Assin South and a senior pastor. Fordjour, who has a history of evangelizing on buses, criticized the regulation as a threat to fundamental religious practices and evangelism efforts. Other religious leaders, such as Prophet Nigel Gaisie and Reverend Kwadwo Boateng Bempah, also voiced strong opposition, arguing that the regulation infringed upon the freedom of worship and the traditional role of the 'trotro' as a space for spiritual engagement. In contrast, the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana have expressed disappointment over the government's decision to pause the ban. In a formal press release, the group demanded the immediate reinstatement of Regulation 141, citing the importance of passenger comfort and the elimination of safety risks caused by unsolicited preaching and trading in cramped vehicles. They argued that the suspension undermines efforts to professionalize the transport sector and warned that they would resist attempts to allow these activities to continue permanently. As the enforcement remains on hold, the Ministry of Transport is expected to facilitate a series of meetings with religious bodies, transport unions, and civil rights organizations. The goal of these consultations is to refine the regulation to balance the constitutional right to religious expression with the government's obligation to ensure public safety and the rights of passengers who prefer a quiet travel environment. For now, transit preaching and hawking may continue without the immediate threat of legal penalties.

President Mahama takes 'Resetting Ghana' Tour to Ahafo Region
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John Mahama begins two-day inspection of projects in Ahafo Region

President John Dramani Mahama has commenced a two-day working visit to the Ahafo Region as part of his "Resetting Ghana" tour. Starting on Friday, October 9, 2026, the President is visiting various districts to inspect ongoing infrastructure projects and engage directly with local residents. The tour is designed to monitor progress on key government initiatives and gather public feedback on regional development priorities as the administration continues its current term. A central focus of the visit involves several major infrastructure and industrial projects aimed at boosting the local economy. In Bechem, the President is inspecting a poultry, meat, and feed processing facility, while his itinerary also includes the Tepa–Goaso Road project, which is being executed under the Big Push Programme. Additionally, he is visiting the Ntontroso Bridge, a critical piece of infrastructure for local transport and commerce. Accompanied by several Ministers of State and Members of Parliament, the President's tour also includes a stop at Ahyieam to examine a Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound. Other planned inspections cover a vegetable development project and various road works. The President is also scheduled to commission a new Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) office during the visit, highlighting a focus on both social services and security infrastructure. The two-day tour will culminate in a town hall meeting at the Victory Centre Assemblies of God in Goaso. This session is intended to provide a platform for local chiefs and residents to discuss community concerns and receive briefings on national policy interventions. By engaging with the community in this format, the President aims to ensure that the government's development agenda remains aligned with the specific needs of the Ahafo people.

Nasir El-Rufai bail judgment reserved by Court of Appeal in Kaduna
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Nasir El-Rufai bail judgment reserved by Court of Appeal in Kaduna

The Court of Appeal in Kaduna has reserved its judgment in an appeal by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, who is challenging the refusal of a lower court to grant him bail. Presiding Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi announced the decision after listening to the concluding arguments from both the legal team representing the former governor and the state's prosecutors. This appeal stems from a previous ruling by the Kaduna State High Court, which had denied the former governor's request for bail. During the proceedings, Nasir El-Rufai’s lawyers argued that the high court’s decision to deny bail was legally flawed and should be overturned. They urged the appellate court to consider the merits of their client's application and grant him bail pending the resolution of the main case. In response, the prosecution maintained that the lower court’s decision was sound and should be upheld by the Court of Appeal. Justice Otisi, after hearing the submissions, did not set a specific date for the final ruling but indicated that the parties would be notified once the judgment is ready. This legal battle is closely watched as it involves a significant political figure and addresses critical questions regarding the standards for bail in high-profile judicial matters.

A woman stands at a transparent podium delivering a speech during a formal diplomatic event. Behind her, a large screen displays the French Embassy logo and a welcoming message addressed to the French and business communities in Ghana. The setting includes musical equipment like a drum kit and keyboard, suggesting a reception or gala atmosphere.
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France deepens bilateral ties with Ghana through new economic contracts

French Ambassador to Ghana, Madam Diarra Dimé-Labille, has announced a significant expansion of bilateral cooperation between France and Ghana, targeting key sectors such as health, security, trade, and education. This strategic deepening of ties follows recent high-level diplomatic engagements between President John Mahama and French President Emmanuel Macron. According to the Ambassador, these discussions have paved the way for a more robust partnership that seeks to align the development goals of both nations while fostering regional stability and economic growth. A central component of this strengthened relationship is the signing of several significant economic contracts, which the Ambassador cited as evidence of increasing confidence in the Ghanaian market. Speaking at a reception held to celebrate French-Ghanaian relations, Madam Dimé-Labille lauded the contributions of French businesses currently operating in Ghana, noting their vital role in driving innovation and infrastructure development. The multisectoral approach ensures that the partnership provides tangible benefits across the Ghanaian economy, ranging from industrial trade to specialized educational exchanges and security cooperation. Beyond economic and technical assistance, the diplomatic dialogue has also touched upon historical and social issues. Ambassador Dimé-Labille emphasized France’s openness to engaging in discussions concerning reparatory justice, highlighting a commitment to a transparent and inclusive relationship. She noted that the French presence in Ghana has become increasingly vibrant over the past year, with numerous partnerships evolving to meet contemporary challenges. A formal assessment of these ongoing initiatives and the broader impact of the new economic agreements is expected to be conducted during a New Year’s reception in January 2027.