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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Minority demands permanent withdrawal of GSA $300 vehicle charge

The Minority in Parliament has called on the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to permanently withdraw the proposed US$300 Pre-shipment Verification of Conformity (PVoC) charge for imported vehicles. While the implementation of the policy has been suspended, the Minority argues that a mere suspension is insufficient given the potential financial burden on importers and consumers. The demand comes amid concerns over rising costs at the country's ports and the broader economic challenges facing the trading community. Michael Okyere Baafi, the Ranking Member of the Trade and Industry Committee, emphasized that the US$300 verification charge would significantly inflate the cost of vehicles in a market where over 100,000 units are imported annually. He noted that a large percentage of these imports are used or overage vehicles, making them particularly sensitive to additional fees. According to the Minority, the policy represents an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy that will ultimately be passed on to Ghanaian car buyers. Furthermore, the Minority has questioned the technical necessity of the new requirement, asserting that existing mechanisms are already capable of verifying the legitimacy and standards of imported vehicles. Mr. Baafi highlighted that adding the PVoC requirement does not provide significant additional value but instead complicates the clearance process for freight forwarders and traders. He urged the government to focus on policies that facilitate trade rather than creating new financial hurdles. The Minority plans to intensify its advocacy for the immediate and total scrapping of the PVoC policy. They intend to align their opposition with the grievances of other stakeholders, including freight forwarders and port operators, who have also raised alarms about the cumulative effect of various port charges. The group maintains that removing the charge is essential to protecting the livelihoods of those in the automotive trade and ensuring the affordability of transportation for all Ghanaians.

Mockshell Esinam Sunu summoned by PAC over GH‵341,229 salary
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Mockshell Esinam Sunu summoned by PAC over GH‵341,229 salary

Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed the Ministry of Health to ensure that Dr. Mockshell Esinam Sunu, a Senior Medical Officer at Takoradi Hospital, appears before it to explain the receipt of GH‵341,229 in unearned salary. The summons follows revelations that Dr. Sunu continued to receive monthly payments while on an approved study leave for a program in Germany that she never actually attended. The committee is seeking an explanation for how these payments remained active despite her failure to travel for the course. The investigation focuses on a two-year period, with the PAC questioning salary disbursements made from September 2023 to August 2025. Committee Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare expressed significant concern over the duration of the oversight, noting that the payments continued undetected for nearly two years. Dr. Sunu is expected to clarify why she did not notify the health authorities or the Controller and Accountant General’s Department to stop the payments once it became clear her study plans had fallen through. Beyond the conduct of the medical officer, the PAC is scrutinizing the internal payroll validation processes at the Takoradi Hospital and the Ministry of Health. Ms. Osei-Asare highlighted a breakdown in the system, emphasizing that officials responsible for payroll validation must be held accountable for failing to flag the discrepancy. The inquiry aims to determine whether there was a deliberate attempt to circumvent the rules or if the lapse was purely administrative. This case has brought renewed attention to the management of the public sector wage bill and the effectiveness of financial controls within Ghana’s health service. The committee has signaled that it will pursue the full recovery of the GH‵341,229. As the inquiry continues, the Ministry of Health is expected to provide a detailed report on how such a significant amount of public funds was disbursed to an officer who was not at her post or enrolled in her approved program.

Samuel Nartey George and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah called to the Ghana Bar
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Samuel Nartey George and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah called to the Ghana Bar

On Friday, October 9, 2026, several prominent figures from Ghana’s political and media sectors were officially admitted to the Bar, marking their formal entry into the legal profession. Among the high-profile cohort are Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. The induction ceremony signifies a significant academic and professional milestone for these public servants, who have balanced their cabinet responsibilities with rigorous legal studies. The admission of these high-ranking officials reflects a growing trend of Ghanaian politicians seeking legal qualifications to enhance their legislative and administrative expertise. Samuel Nartey George and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah are both influential members of President John Mahama's administration. Their transition to the Bar is expected to bring a more profound understanding of legal frameworks and constitutional law to their respective ministries and parliamentary duties. Beyond the political sphere, the legal fraternity also welcomed notable media professional Umaru Sanda Amadu. The well-known broadcast journalist was among the candidates called to the Bar during the October 9 ceremony, having successfully completed the professional law course. The presence of such diverse public figures highlights the broad appeal of legal education in Ghana, drawing professionals from journalism, governance, and other sectors into the legal fold. As these new lawyers take their oaths, they join the ranks of practitioners recognized by the General Legal Council. This professional qualification grants them the license to provide legal counsel and represent clients, though their immediate priorities remain focused on their current roles in public service and the media. The successful induction of these personalities is viewed as a testament to the personal dedication required to complete the legal training process while serving in demanding national positions.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, a prominent Ghanaian politician, is captured speaking at a podium during a World Press Freedom Day and Honours Night event. He is wearing a dark blue traditional outfit and stands before a large blue backdrop with white lettering emphasizing media freedom.
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Felix Kwakye Ofosu rejects claims of government restricting free speech

The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has strongly dismissed allegations that the administration is undermining freedom of expression in Ghana. Speaking at the launch of the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, the Minister emphasized that President John Dramani Mahama remains deeply committed to upholding democratic values and protecting the right of citizens to express their views without fear of state interference. He assured the media fraternity that under no circumstances would the current government seek to curb legitimate free expression. Addressing recent criticisms following the arrest of a nurse, Salomey Baffoe Awiti, in Techiman, Kwakye Ofosu clarified the necessary distinction between constructive criticism and criminal conduct. He argued that while the government welcomes scrutiny and dissent, law enforcement agencies have a responsibility to act when speech crosses the line into criminality or poses a direct threat to national security and public peace. The Minister maintained that recent law enforcement actions are related to specific legal violations rather than an attempt to silence critics of the state. Kwakye Ofosu further highlighted the growing danger of hate speech, particularly on social media platforms, which he warned could incite civil unrest if left unchecked. Drawing parallels to historical conflicts and atrocities across the African continent, he noted that inflammatory rhetoric has the potential to ignite violence, especially in conflict-prone areas. He urged the public and the media to recognize that efforts to combat hate speech should be viewed as a measure to preserve public stability rather than a crackdown on constitutional freedoms. In his concluding remarks, the Minister reiterated that the Mahama administration views the media as a vital partner in national development. He called for a balanced approach to communication that respects the rule of law while exercising the right to free expression. By distinguishing between the exercise of a right and the commission of a crime, Kwakye Ofosu insisted that the government's actions are aimed at ensuring that Ghana’s democratic space remains vibrant but also secure from the destabilizing effects of harmful speech.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin
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Minority Caucus files motion for inquiry into $1.7bn gold purchase loss

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has filed a formal motion demanding a thorough inquiry into a reported $1.7 billion loss incurred by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) under its gold purchase program. The caucus, led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, cited a recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) report that flagged the substantial financial shortfall during the 2025 fiscal period. Lawmakers insist that the scale of the loss necessitates full transparency regarding the management of public funds and the central bank's procurement strategies. Afenyo-Markin criticized attempts to distance the Bank of Ghana's core operations from the accounts of the Ghana Gold Board, arguing that such distinctions are irrelevant to the taxpayer who ultimately bears the cost. He asserted that the $1.7 billion deficit represents a significant economic blow that cannot be dismissed as a minor accounting variance or a personal dispute. The Minority emphasized that the public has a right to know how procurement decisions were made and who must be held accountable for the resulting fiscal gap. Beyond the financial implications, the Minority Caucus expressed grave concerns about the ethical and security dimensions of the gold purchase program. They called for an investigation into the sources of the gold to determine if the program has been inadvertently supporting illegal mining operations. Furthermore, the caucus raised alarms about potential links between the gold trade and broader national security issues, specifically citing concerns regarding the rise in narcotics trafficking. This new motion follows previous attempts by the Minority to investigate the program, which were met with resistance from the Majority. By renewing the call for a parliamentary probe, the opposition aims to compel the legislative body to exercise its oversight function more rigorously. The caucus maintains that a failure to investigate a loss of this magnitude would undermine public trust and the country's financial stability.

A woman wearing red-framed glasses and a vibrant yellow and green patterned dress is speaking into a microphone during an official proceeding. A nameplate for Hon. Samuel Atta-Mills and the official Parliament of Ghana logo are visible in the foreground, suggesting a legislative setting.
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Public Accounts Committee defers Ghana Water Limited hearing over GH₵3bn deficit

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has deferred a scheduled hearing regarding the financial performance of Ghana Water Limited (GWL). The decision to postpone the session was made to ensure the presence of both the sector Minister and the Managing Director of the utility company, who were absent during the initial proceedings. The committee emphasized that the gravity of the financial issues currently facing the company necessitates the direct involvement and accountability of its top leadership. Evidence presented to the committee highlighted a significant deterioration in the utility provider’s financial health over the last fiscal year. While GWL reported a revenue of GH‡2.113 billion in 2023, this figure saw a slight decline to GH‡2.109 billion in 2024. However, the most pressing concern for lawmakers is the sharp increase in expenditure, which resulted in a total deficit of GH‡3.063 billion for the 2024 financial year. Committee members expressed deep alarm over these escalating liabilities and the general trajectory of the company's fiscal management. During the session, the committee scrutinized the company’s justification for continuous borrowing. Lawmakers specifically questioned the strategy of taking on additional debt to manage aging equipment and infrastructure, seeking clarity on how such loans would be serviced or repaid given the widening deficit. The PAC indicated that it requires a comprehensive briefing on the company’s turnaround strategy and its plans to mitigate the mounting debt crisis that potentially threatens the sustainability of water services across the country. The hearing has been rescheduled to a later date, with the PAC formally directing the sector Minister and the Managing Director to appear in person to provide the necessary clarifications. This scrutiny comes as the administration under President John Mahama faces increasing pressure to improve the efficiency and financial viability of state-owned enterprises and utility providers.

John Mahama launches Easy Rent scheme amid claims of rebranding
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John Mahama launches Easy Rent scheme amid claims of rebranding

President John Mahama has introduced a new housing intervention called the "Easy Rent" program, aimed at helping workers manage the burden of upfront rent advance payments. Speaking at the National Conference on Housing Finance in Accra on October 7, 2026, the President explained that the initiative allows the government to cover initial rent costs, which beneficiaries then repay through manageable monthly installments. The program is designed to provide financial relief to the workforce while addressing the persistent challenge of landlords demanding multiple years of rent in advance. However, the announcement has sparked a debate over policy originality, with critics pointing out that "Easy Rent" appears to be a repackaged version of the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS). The NRAS was originally launched in January 2023 by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia under the previous administration. Like the newly announced program, the NRAS was established to provide loans directly to landlords on behalf of tenants who possess a valid Ghana Card and a steady income, allowing for monthly repayments. According to records from the previous government, the NRAS has already seen significant implementation, with over GH‵13 million disbursed to more than 1,100 beneficiaries across the country since its inception. Observers have noted that the two programs share the same target demographic, structural design, and primary objective of mitigating the rent advance crisis. This has led to accusations from political opponents that the current administration is simply rebranding an existing and operational policy rather than introducing a distinct initiative. Despite the controversy over its naming and origin, the focus on rent assistance remains a critical issue for Ghanaian workers. The transition from the previous administration's NRAS to the Mahama administration's Easy Rent program raises questions about whether the existing infrastructure of the old scheme will be integrated into the new one or if the two will operate as separate entities. As the government moves forward with the rollout, the public will be looking for clarity on how this intervention differs from the support already available to renters.

Security and Intelligence Agencies Act 2026 modernizes national security framework
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Security and Intelligence Agencies Act 2026 modernizes national security framework

Ghana has updated its national security architecture through the enactment of the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2026 (Act 1168). This legislation marks a significant shift from traditional defense models to a modernized intelligence-led governance system designed to address contemporary threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and pandemics. The act aims to streamline coordination among various security institutions while ensuring that operations remain under democratic oversight and respect human rights. A core feature of the new law is the decentralization of security management through the formal establishment of Regional Security Councils (REGSECs) and District Security Councils (DISECs). These bodies are intended to provide swift, localized responses to emerging threats within specific communities. At the national level, the Act strengthens the roles of the National Security Council and the Office of the National Security Coordinator, facilitating better data sharing and unified decision-making across the country's security agencies to eliminate operational silos. Act 1168 also broadens the definition of national interest to include human security, moving beyond military defense to safeguard the general well-being of citizens. It specifically targets multifaceted challenges such as organized crime and threats to critical national infrastructure. The legislation introduces robust cybersecurity provisions, aligning Ghana's defense against digital threats with international best practices. This holistic approach, often described as a "Whole-of-Government" strategy, integrates various sectors to enhance national resilience. Despite the legislative progress, experts have highlighted potential hurdles to the success of the new framework. The effectiveness of the Act may be challenged by resource limitations, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and long-standing inter-agency rivalries. For Act 1168 to achieve its intended impact, the government must prioritize inter-agency cooperation, provide adequate funding for the new councils, and maintain rigorous civilian oversight to protect the constitutional rights of Ghanaians while ensuring national stability.

Foreign Affairs Ministry issues travel advisory for medical travellers to South Africa
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Foreign Affairs Ministry issues advisory for medical travel to South Africa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory to Ghanaian nationals planning to seek medical treatment in South Africa, warning that the standard visa-free arrangement may be insufficient for healthcare needs. The directive emphasizes that while Ghanaian passport holders can enter South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business, this exemption does not cover prolonged medical procedures. The Ministry is urging travelers to secure the appropriate Medical Treatment Visa before departure to ensure their legal stay covers the full duration of their clinical care. The advisory follows recent compliance challenges where Ghanaian citizens were denied entry into South Africa due to previous immigration overstays. In one specific instance, a traveler was barred from entry because their stay during a previous medical visit exceeded the allowed 90-day window without the proper documentation. The Ministry noted that such incidents highlight the necessity of matching one's visa type to the actual purpose and expected length of the visit, rather than relying on short-term exemptions for long-term health needs. To avoid legal complications or being turned back at the border, the Ministry advises all prospective medical travelers to consult with the South African High Commission to obtain the correct permits. Maintaining a valid immigration status is essential for ensuring that patients can focus on their recovery without the threat of deportation or future travel bans. This measure is part of broader efforts to ensure Ghanaian citizens adhere to the immigration laws of host countries while seeking essential services abroad.

NDC records 830 aspirants for Greater Accra regional elections
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NDC records 830 aspirants for Greater Accra regional elections

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has concluded the first stage of its internal reorganization in the Greater Accra Region, with 830 aspirants successfully picking up nomination forms for various regional executive positions. This high level of participation marks a significant milestone in the party's preparations for its upcoming regional elections. Mahdi Jibril, the Deputy Director of Elections for the NDC, confirmed the figures and indicated that the level of interest reflects a strong desire among members to lead the party in the nation's capital. Following the close of the nomination pickup window, the process has now transitioned to the administrative and verification phases. Aspirants are required to pay their filing fees and complete the online submission of their documents through the party’s dedicated portal. According to the established timeline, the physical submission of completed nomination documents is scheduled to take place on October 14 and 15, 2026. This two-step verification process is intended to ensure that all candidates meet the necessary constitutional requirements before the vetting stage begins. Among the hundreds of individuals vying for leadership roles, a significant portion consists of incumbent regional executives seeking to retain their seats. The upcoming elections are seen as a critical step for the NDC as it seeks to consolidate its organizational strength in Greater Accra ahead of future national contests. As the party moves toward the physical filing deadline, the election directorate has maintained that the online system remains open for those who have yet to finalize their fee payments, ensuring a streamlined transition to the vetting and voting stages.

NPP leadership defends Kojo Bamba election as First Vice Chairman
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NPP leadership defends Kojo Bamba election as First Vice Chairman

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership has mounted a firm defense of Kojo Fosu Boadu, popularly known as Kojo Bamba, following his election as the party’s First National Vice Chairman. Anthony Abayifaa Karbo, Chairperson of the NPP Organisational Committee, and other party communicators dismissed criticisms regarding Bamba’s past associations and qualifications. Bamba secured the position with 3,116 votes, a victory party officials say reflects a mandate from the grassroots to strengthen the party ahead of the 2028 general elections. Addressing concerns about Bamba’s alleged ties to the defunct Delta Force vigilante group, Anthony Karbo clarified that the election was not an endorsement of vigilantism. He emphasized that Bamba is no longer associated with such activities and that his extensive experience within the party makes him uniquely qualified for his new role. Karbo argued that Bamba’s intimidating physique should not distract from his political competence or his ability to engage with underserved populations across Ghana. Further support came from Dr. Fahd Osman of the NPP national communications team, who noted that Bamba’s message resonated with delegates who felt intimidated during previous election cycles. Osman suggested that the effective nature of Bamba’s campaign and the reactions from political opponents underscore the significance of his victory. Additionally, former First Vice Chairman Danquah Smith Buttey dismissed criticisms regarding Bamba’s English proficiency, asserting that the candidate met all constitutional requirements and successfully completed the nomination process. The NPP leadership maintains that Bamba’s mobilization skills and deep connection with the party’s base are essential for internal cohesion. By prioritizing grassroots engagement, the party aims to address the concerns of members who felt sidelined during the 2024 elections. Officials believe that Bamba’s leadership will be instrumental in organizing the party’s structures and ensuring a robust presence across the country as they prepare for future electoral contests.

Acting First Vice-Chairperson of the CPP Working Committee in charge of Finance, Joyce Larbie
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Convention People’s Party launches nationwide membership drive

The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has officially launched a nationwide membership drive aimed at expanding its ranks and reshaping Ghana’s political landscape. The recruitment campaign specifically targets youth, farmers, market women, students, and professionals across the country. According to the party leadership, the initiative is designed to offer a credible alternative to the long-standing political duopoly that has dominated the fourth republic. Speaking on the initiative, the CPP’s Acting First Vice-Chairperson, Joyce Larbie, emphasized that the drive seeks to reach citizens who still believe in the "true Ghanaian dream." She noted that many Ghanaians are increasingly dissatisfied with the current political environment and are looking for a platform that prioritizes the welfare of the ordinary person. By reaching out to diverse socio-economic groups, the CPP hopes to build a more inclusive base capable of influencing national policy. To facilitate the recruitment process, the party has introduced a simplified registration system. Potential members can now join the CPP through a quick mobile network registration process, making it more accessible for those in remote areas or with busy schedules. This technological approach is part of a broader strategy to modernize the party’s operations while maintaining its commitment to grassroots mobilization. The CPP’s leadership also used the launch to remind the public of the party’s historical contributions to Ghana’s development, particularly in the areas of industrialization, free education, and healthcare. Larbie urged Ghanaians to see this membership drive as an opportunity to return to those foundational principles of national progress. She called on all citizens who desire genuine political change to participate in the initiative and help restore the party to its former prominence.