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.

Ghana, Russia sign visa waiver agreement for diplomatic, service passport holders
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Kenneth Gilbert Adjei Pledges Defence Modernization as Ghana Strengthens Diplomatic and Security Ties

Ghana’s political and security landscape has seen significant shifts as newly appointed Minister of Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, officially assumed office. Pledging a comprehensive modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Adjei emphasized the need to address evolving security threats, including violent extremism and cybercrimes. His agenda focuses on enhancing personnel welfare and strategic logistics, succeeding Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. This transition aligns with recent calls from former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who, during the 2026 Busia Institute Lecture, urged citizens to safeguard democratic institutions, reminding the nation that electoral victory is not synonymous with state ownership but a mandate for inclusive governance. On the diplomatic front, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has successfully negotiated a landmark Visa Waiver Agreement with Russia for diplomatic and service passport holders. This historic agreement, signed during a visit to Moscow, marks the first such arrangement since formal ties began in 1958. Furthermore, Russia has doubled its annual scholarship allocation for Ghanaian students from 120 to 240, prioritizing specialized fields such as artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, and petroleum sciences. These developments come as the National Peace Council urges residents, particularly in Naaga, to remain vigilant against the infiltration of extremist groups, highlighting the role of social media in radicalization. Internal security and law enforcement have also seen major activity. Under Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, the Police Administration has promoted 13,689 officers in just over a year to boost morale and reward bravery. However, the service faces challenges, including a planned two-month strike by the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana over alleged extortion by security personnel. In a notable act of community enforcement, youth in Tanoso recently apprehended the Tanoso Ankobeahene, Nana Amoako Atta, for his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities near the Tano River, subsequently handing him over to the police. In the legal sphere, the Ashaiman District Court has remanded WOII Dzisenu Ben into police custody following the alleged murder of Abdul Shaban during a confrontation at Mawugbedzibe. Simultaneously, the police are searching for former boxer Ayittey Powers regarding alleged death threats against National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. Amidst these events, economist Professor Godfred Bokpin has cautioned against over-attributing macroeconomic stability to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), noting that while it helps reduce smuggling, primary stability remains rooted in broader fiscal and monetary policies. These varied developments underscore a period of active governance and systemic adjustment across Ghana's defense, diplomatic, and legal sectors.

Prof Samuel Kweku Hayford from UEW chairs new Graphic Communications Group Ltd Board as NMC appoints new boards for state-owned media organisations
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President Mahama and NMC Reconstitute State Media Boards as GJA Celebrates 77 Years of Democratic Vigilance

In a significant move to strengthen the country’s information landscape, the National Media Commission (NMC) has reconstituted the governing boards of four major state-owned media organizations. Following essential consultations with President John Mahama, the NMC appointed new leadership to the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the New Times Corporation, and the Ghana News Agency (GNA). These appointments come at a pivotal time as the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) celebrates its 77th anniversary, emphasizing the critical role of credible journalism in safeguarding the nation’s democratic foundations and ensuring the public remains informed rather than "walking in the dark." The newly appointed boards feature a blend of academic and industry expertise designed to provide robust oversight. Prof. Samuel Kweku Hayford has been named Chairman of the GCGL board, while Francis Mills Robertson will lead the GBC. Dr. Kwame Akuffo Anoff-Ntow and Dr. Charity Binka have been appointed to chair the GNA and New Times Corporation boards, respectively. Each board will include various members alongside the organisations' Managing Directors. This institutional refreshing is seen as a key step in fulfilling the constitutional provisions for state media independence while ensuring they remain accountable to the public interest under the current administration. During the GJA’s 77th Anniversary Symposium in Accra, the association’s leadership underscored the necessity of high professional standards to maintain media credibility. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour and Vice President Rebecca Ekpe both warned that the association cannot defend journalists if they do not uphold the integrity of the profession. Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim characterized the relationship between the media and the government as a "holy alliance" that has protected Ghana’s democracy through joint investigative efforts. Furthermore, Mr. Dwumfour challenged the government to broaden its fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, by targeting the powerful financiers and equipment suppliers who drive the illegal gold economy. Beyond media governance, the political climate reflects a push for greater administrative accountability and sector-specific support. The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, recently issued a public apology and ordered a refund to a victim of extortion by city guards, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy for official misconduct. Simultaneously, the creative arts sector has expressed renewed optimism; Kumawood actor Salinko and other creatives praised President Mahama for his consistent support of industry practitioners and his pledge to establish a welfare fund for aging creatives. These developments highlight a multi-faceted effort by the Mahama administration to address both grassroots grievances and sector-wide reforms. While Ghana celebrates these advancements in institutional governance, regional and international developments serve as a reminder of the global challenges facing press freedom. The detention of two French filmmakers in neighboring Togo and high-profile legal battles in the United States over media licensing highlight the complexities of modern media regulation. As Ghana moves forward with its new media boards and the GJA’s renewed focus on professionalism, the collaboration between the state and the press will be vital in maintaining the country’s status as a stable democracy and a protector of free expression.

Methodist Church Ghana calls for stronger action on environmental destruction
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President Mahama’s Reset Agenda Faces Scrutiny Amid Accountability Drive and Comprehensive Tax Reforms

Under the leadership of President John Mahama, Ghana is navigating an intensive push for public accountability, headlined by the government’s “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) and the 2025 State of Corruption report. According to the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), the Audit Service successfully recovered GH¢24.95 million in unearned salaries and financial irregularities during the 2025 fiscal year. While the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) secured seven convictions from 71 investigations, the GACC report also highlighted that GH¢20.49 billion in financial irregularities persist across public institutions. This drive for transparency has prompted the questioning of several former New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials, a move Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, defended as a necessary step for explaining unfulfilled contracts, despite NPP accusations of "selective justice" and political persecution. Complementing these accountability efforts, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has spearheaded a broad review of Ghana’s tax laws to modernize administration and enhance revenue mobilization. Speaking at recent conferences for the Chartered Institute of Taxation and the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Vice President emphasized simplifying VAT compliance and introducing digital monitoring devices to adapt to a changing economy. This legislative focus extends to the petroleum sector, where the Finance Committee of Parliament, led by MP Isaac Adongo, is advocating for a clear legal framework to protect the funding of the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC). PIAC is currently auditing uncompleted petroleum-funded projects, such as the Agenda 111 hospitals, while urging increased investment in exploration following a decline in production from 71 million barrels in 2019 to 37 million in 2025. Governance challenges remain at the forefront of national discourse, particularly regarding electoral integrity. The “Democracy Not for Sale” forum in Ho recently revealed that 98% of respondents in the Volta Region are aware of vote-buying practices, though a majority expressed a willingness to vote for candidates with better ideas over wealthier opponents. Stakeholders at the forum called for stricter enforcement of laws and better civic education to reduce the influence of hidden financiers. Meanwhile, the administration is managing tension in the agricultural sector, where the Young Cocoa Farmers Association has petitioned President Mahama regarding uncertainties in farming. While NDC communicators like David Wordi defend the administration's cocoa policies as benefiting farmers, NPP organizers warn that failure to address rising input costs could shift voting behavior in the 2028 elections. Religious and social advocacy groups are also demanding more proactive state action and ethical leadership. The Methodist Church Ghana, through Presiding Bishop Most Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has urged the government to fulfill its campaign promises and take stronger stances against environmental destruction caused by illegal mining. Simultaneously, the Zonta Clubs of Ghana have called for parliamentary sanctions against MP Mohammed Yakubu for comments allegedly normalizing child marriage. These calls for reform are mirrored in local administration, such as the Savannah Regional Minister’s directive to prosecute sanitation law violators and the Sissala West DCE’s distribution of 1,500 bags of fertilizer under the "Feed Ghana" program, as the government seeks to balance high-level policy reforms with immediate community needs.

Senegals former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko returned to parliament days after being sacked by the president. By SEYLLOU (AFP)
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President Bola Tinubu Navigates Economic Crisis and Legal Scrutiny as Political Tensions Rise Across Africa and the US

Campaigning has officially commenced for Nigeria’s upcoming elections scheduled for January 16, unfolding amid a backdrop of severe economic distress and escalating security challenges. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who won the 2023 presidency with 36.6% of the vote, faces what is being described as a political rematch against competitors Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar. Despite implementing ambitious reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the administration is struggling with a 34% inflation rate that has left over 60% of the population living below the poverty line. High levels of violence from armed groups and a historically low voter turnout of 27% further complicate the political landscape as the nation prepares for the polls. In addition to economic pressures, President Tinubu is facing intensified legal and international scrutiny. A United States District Court has mandated the FBI and DEA to release investigative files regarding the President by April 2025, following a lawsuit by activists and journalists seeking transparency. Despite these challenges, some analysts and public figures, including musician Davido, suggest that a fragmented opposition may inadvertently strengthen Tinubu’s prospects for the 2027 presidential cycle. The current division among opposition parties remains a significant hurdle for those seeking to challenge the incumbent’s economic and security record. Beyond Nigeria, democratic stability is being tested across the African continent. In Zambia, United Nations Rights Chief Volker Turk has expressed grave concern over the arbitrary arrest and detention of opposition figures following President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent electoral victory. Turk urged authorities to uphold due process and end the suppression of political rivals. Similarly, in Senegal, a growing rift between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Parliament Speaker Ousmane Sonko has stalled progress on setting dates for local elections. With municipal mandates expiring, the political atmosphere remains tense as the opposition pressures the presidency to avoid further delays in the democratic process. The international political sphere also saw significant movements in the United States, where primary elections in Florida and Alaska have finalized key nominees for the upcoming midterm elections. Republican Byron Donalds and Senator Dan Sullivan secured crucial victories, underscoring the shifting dynamics within the American political landscape. Meanwhile, in a case that has captured global attention for three decades, the murder trial of Tupac Shakur continues to navigate complex legal hurdles. Recent testimony from James 'Mob James' McDonald highlighted the difficulties of breaking gang-related silences in the prosecution of Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, marking a pivotal moment in the quest for judicial closure in one of the world's most notorious cold cases.

Trump Administration Negotiates Trade Truce with Canada While Advancing Major Deportation Policies in Africa
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Trump Administration Negotiates Trade Truce with Canada While Advancing Major Deportation Policies in Africa

The United States administration under President Donald Trump has moved to reshape its international trade and immigration landscapes through a series of high-stakes maneuvers. In a significant reprieve for North American economic relations, President Trump announced a three-day delay in imposing a proposed 50% tariff on nearly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. This pause comes as negotiators from both nations work to finalize a comprehensive trade deal aimed at resolving long-standing disputes, including U.S. tariffs on automobiles and Canadian restrictions on American liquor sales. A potential cornerstone of this emerging agreement is the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline, a project intended to transport oil from Alberta to the U.S., which had previously been stalled due to environmental and political opposition. While trade tensions with Canada show signs of thawing, the administration is simultaneously intensifying its immigration enforcement through new international agreements and legal victories. Liberia has officially agreed to accept up to 1,200 deportees from the United States over the next year, including third-country nationals who cannot be repatriated to their home countries. The first group of 20 individuals is expected to arrive in Monrovia shortly. Although the Liberian government stated that it is not receiving direct compensation for this arrangement, the U.S. will provide support for resettlement and migration management. The deal has drawn scrutiny from critics who view it as a problematic expansion of U.S. influence over foreign immigration systems, though Liberia has framed the move within its historical context as a refuge for displaced persons. On the legal front, the administration has secured a pivotal victory regarding the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) of thousands of migrants. U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy in Boston recently upheld the decision to terminate TPS for over 5,000 Ethiopians, effectively clearing the way for the Department of Homeland Security to end legal protections that were originally granted under the previous Biden administration. This ruling followed a U.S. Supreme Court decision that limited judicial review of such executive actions. While the judge dismissed several claims, he allowed litigation to continue regarding potential racial motivations behind the termination. Advocacy groups, such as African Communities Together, have expressed grave concerns for the safety of those facing return to Ethiopia amidst the country's ongoing internal crises. These combined developments signal a robust reassertion of the administration's "America First" agenda, balancing economic protectionism with aggressive border and immigration controls. The three-day tariff pause suggests a preference for negotiated concessions over immediate trade wars with strategic allies, whereas the deportation agreements with Liberia and the termination of Ethiopian protections underscore a commitment to reducing the number of non-citizens residing in the U.S. under humanitarian programs. As these policies take effect, the international community and domestic advocacy groups will be watching closely for the resulting economic shifts and the human impact on migrant populations across the African continent.

Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities Demand High-Level Government Engagement Following Jubilee House Protest
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Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities Demand High-Level Government Engagement Following Jubilee House Protest

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities staged a significant protest on August 19, 2026, at Jubilee House to demand immediate government action on the persistent unemployment facing their members. The group is advocating for the enforcement of the five percent employment quota for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and is seeking direct dialogue with senior administration officials. The protest highlights growing frustration over the lack of inclusion in the public sector, with the Coalition insisting that only high-ranking leadership can provide the necessary financial clearance and policy directives to resolve their grievances. The demonstration took a tense turn when the protesters refused to hand over their petition to Dr. Samuel Ayeh, a Presidential Staffer and aide to President John Mahama. Despite Dr. Ayeh presenting himself as a senior representative of the executive, the Coalition, led by Convener Gilbert Boateng, declined to submit the document, requesting instead to meet with the Chief of Staff, the Vice President, or President Mahama himself. Mr. Boateng emphasized that while the decision was not meant to be disrespectful to Dr. Ayeh, the group felt that previous petitions to lower-level staffers had failed to yield results. Following a denial of entry to the Jubilee House grounds, the group continued their picket at the nearby Christ the King Church. Central to the Coalition's grievances is the perceived failure of state institutions to uphold recruitment standards for PWDs. The group cited a recent recruitment exercise by the Ghana Education Service (GES) as a primary example of this failure; despite the Coalition providing a list of 200 qualified graduates, not a single person with a disability was hired. The protesters are calling for the Ministry of Finance to grant specific financial clearance for the recruitment of PWDs to ensure they do not have to compete on an uneven playing field with able-bodied applicants, who they say are often prioritized in general hiring rounds. Responding to the group's refusal to engage with him, Dr. Samuel Ayeh stated that he respected the Coalition's decision but maintained that he was authorized to represent the President. He suggested that the group could wait until they found an official they deemed suitable to receive the petition, while also conveying the President's best wishes. However, the Coalition remains firm in its stance, arguing that direct engagement with the nation's top decision-makers is the only way to secure the dedicated job opportunities and systemic changes required to end the marginalization of graduates with disabilities in Ghana's workforce.

Ghana Meteorological Agency Demands GH¢50 Million Debt Settlement from Civil Aviation Authority
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Demands GH¢50 Million Debt Settlement from Civil Aviation Authority

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) is facing a severe financial crisis as the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has failed to remit over GH¢50 million in statutory payments. This debt, which persists despite a formal agreement reached in March 2026, is significantly hampering GMet’s ability to provide critical weather services. According to GMet officials, the non-payment has created an unsustainable financial environment that threatens the agency's operational stability and its capacity to meet international meteorological standards. Under the amended Ghana Meteorological Agency Act of 2019, the GCAA is mandated to remit 10% of fees collected from en-route, overflight, and landing services to GMet. Additionally, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is required to pay 5% of airport passenger taxes. While GACL reportedly began making its required payments in 2023, GMet Director-General Dr. Eric Asuman has raised concerns that the GCAA remains non-compliant. The lack of these funds is described as a major blow to GMet’s ability to fund essential operations and national development initiatives. A central hurdle in resolving the dispute is GMet’s inability to access the GCAA’s flight database. Without independent verification of flight data, GMet is forced to rely on the GCAA’s self-reporting, making it impossible to confirm the accuracy of the fees owed. Dr. Asuman has called for the urgent establishment of a transparent, independent verification mechanism to track aviation activity. The situation has already escalated to Parliament’s Select Committee, as GMet seeks legislative support to compel the GCAA to honor its financial obligations. The financial strain on GMet comes at a time when accurate weather forecasting is increasingly vital for national safety, aviation security, and economic planning. The agency warns that continued non-payment threatens the sustainability of Ghana's meteorological infrastructure. Stakeholders and government observers are now looking toward the Ministry of Transport and Parliament to broker a final resolution that ensures both financial transparency and the long-term viability of the nation’s weather services.

Chairman Wontumi Pursues NPP National Chairmanship from Prison Amid Adjourned Bail Hearing
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Chairman Wontumi Pursues NPP National Chairmanship from Prison Amid Adjourned Bail Hearing

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the embattled New Patriotic Party (NPP) politician popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is continuing his bid for the party's national chairmanship despite currently serving a 20-year prison sentence. Wontumi, who was convicted on July 20, 2026, for illegal mining activities in Samreboi and ordered to pay a fine of GH"120,000, remains a central figure in the party’s internal politics. His legal team recently faced a setback as the Accra High Court adjourned his bail application pending appeal to October 15, 2026, following the absence of the trial judge and the defense counsel during the scheduled hearing on August 19. Despite his incarceration, Wontumi’s campaign team and supporters have signaled their intent to proceed with his candidacy for the NPP national chairmanship. Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Dankwah, spokesperson for Wontumi, confirmed on Joy FM’s Newsnight that supporters plan to pick up and submit nomination forms on his behalf by the end of this week. Boakye-Dankwah maintained that there is no legal or constitutional barrier within the party that prevents an incarcerated member from contesting for office, adding that his followers view him as a "political prisoner." Prior to his sentencing, Wontumi had already completed a campaign tour across all 16 regions of Ghana. On the legal front, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, has indicated that the government will continue with the trial and legal processes involving the former Ashanti Regional Chairman. Although negotiations for a settlement had been initiated by Wontumi’s legal team, Dr. Srem Sai revealed that a GH"12 million settlement offer was deemed insufficient by the state. Consequently, the government has opted to let the judicial process take its course while Wontumi’s lawyers simultaneously pursue an appeal against both his conviction and the severity of his sentence. The ongoing legal battle and political ambition of Chairman Wontumi present a unique challenge for the NPP as it prepares for its national executive elections. While his supporters remain resolute in their loyalty, the party's leadership may face internal and public pressure regarding the optics of a convicted illegal miner seeking a high-ranking national office. The outcome of the adjourned bail hearing on October 15 will be a critical turning point, determining whether Wontumi will be able to campaign in person or if his political future will remain tethered to the outcome of his appeal from behind bars.

Minister George Opare Addo Mandates Transparency in Youth Programmes at Inaugural National Youth Forum
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Minister George Opare Addo Mandates Transparency in Youth Programmes at Inaugural National Youth Forum

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has issued a directive to agency CEOs within his ministry to publish comprehensive data on all youth intervention programmes. Speaking at the National Youth Forum 2026 held on Wednesday, August 19, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), the Minister emphasized that transparency is vital for young Ghanaians to track the usage of public funds. The move follows a formal request from Sherif Ghali, President of the Ghana Youth Federation, for the public disclosure of beneficiary lists for initiatives such as the Adwumawura Initiative and the National Apprenticeship Programme. Under the theme ‐A Sound Youth, A Sound Nation: Your Voice. Your Future. Our Ghana,‑ the forum served as a major platform for young people—who represent over 70% of the population under 35—to engage directly with policymakers. Minister Opare Addo reaffirmed the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration to prioritizing youth needs through the newly established dedicated ministry. The forum focused on addressing critical challenges in youth employment, entrepreneurship, and skills development, with the government pledging to transform the concerns and practical ideas shared by participants into actionable national policy. While the government intensifies its focus on youth and social development, other policy initiatives are facing scrutiny. The Centre for Policy Scrutiny recently questioned the rollout of the 24-hour market initiative, with Dr. Adu Owusu Sarkodie arguing that the government must address domestic production needs before expanding market hours to avoid simply facilitating the sale of imported goods. Concurrently, the transport sector is seeing significant changes with the passage of the Road Traffic Amendment Bill, 2025. Although commercial drivers in Kumasi have expressed support for the new safety regulations, they have called for extensive public education and fair enforcement to ensure compliance. These administrative efforts, which also include plans by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to introduce high-security vehicle license plates in 2026, signal a broad push for modernization and accountability under the current administration. Minister Opare Addo concluded the forum by urging the youth to take an active role in their development by acquiring new skills and collaborating with stakeholders. He assured the public that the National Youth Forum would remain a starting point for a continuous, responsive dialogue between the government and the young people who are essential to Ghana's long-term economic growth.

George Justice Arthur — MCE, Cape Coast
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Mahama Administration Accelerates National Infrastructure Projects as Roads Minister Orders 24-Hour Construction Shifts

The Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has launched a comprehensive nationwide inspection tour to ensure the timely delivery of major infrastructure projects under President John Mahama’s ‘Big Push’ initiative. During an inspection of the Greater Accra Region, the Minister issued a stern directive to contractors, including Maripoma Enterprise Limited and First Sky Construction, to accelerate their pace. To meet tightened deadlines, Agbodza instructed contractors working on the 19.5-kilometre Tema Roundabout–Tetteh Quarshie Interchange to implement night shifts, leveraging the government’s 24-hour economy policy to minimize traffic disruptions and recover lost time. The project is currently approximately 50% complete, and the Minister emphasized that the government has fulfilled its financial obligations to ensure no further excuses for delays. Simultaneously, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways Alhassan Suhuyini has confirmed that the administration has set a strict 24-month completion target for projects that traditionally require three years. This accelerated timeline is intended to ensure that the majority of road works, including the dualization of the Adenta–Dodowa Road and the rehabilitation of the Tema–Aflao Road, are finished by the end of 2027. President John Mahama is expected to begin commissioning several of these high-priority projects by mid-2027. However, the government faces localized pressure, as seen in the recent demonstrations by residents of Dome-Kwabenya, Berekuso, and Kitase, who have petitioned the President over the neglect of the 22-kilometre Berekuso-Kitase road, citing its impact on trade and emergency services. Beyond road infrastructure, the administration's development agenda is expanding through metropolitan initiatives. In Cape Coast, Metropolitan Chief Executive George Justice Arthur has outlined an eight-year transformation plan that includes the redevelopment of the Cape Coast Metro Hospital and the Fosu Lagoon, alongside the establishment of a Black Museum to boost tourism. Meanwhile, in Tema, TDC Ghana Limited has moved to clarify its statutory mandate amid a public disagreement with the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) over housing development rights. TDC has called for institutional collaboration to prioritize public interest and infrastructure over jurisdictional disputes. As these physical projects progress, urban development experts are urging the government to extend its reach to underserved city centers. Prince Bagnaba Mba, President of the Forum for Equity, has specifically called for a modern development package for Nima in Accra. Mba argues that transforming Nima is a matter of national security, as the area's high youth unemployment rate requires decisive leadership and economic transformation. These combined efforts across road construction, metropolitan planning, and urban renewal reflect a broader strategic effort by the Mahama administration to enhance national productivity and infrastructure resilience before the 2027 milestones.

Frederick Opare-Ansah — Chairman, National Elections Committee, NPP
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NPP Launches National Executive Nominations Amid Restructuring as Early Polls Show Bawumia Leading 2028 Race

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially commenced its internal electoral process for national executive positions, a critical step in the party’s strategy to reorganize following the 2024 general elections. From August 14 to August 22, 2026, aspirants began picking up nomination forms for various leadership roles, with the national elections scheduled to take place on October 3, 2026. This restructuring phase is being overseen by the National Elections Committee, chaired by Frederick Opare-Ansah, and features nomination fees ranging from GH"8,000 to GH"50,000. Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been touring the regions, most recently the Central Region, urging newly elected executives to prioritize unity and grassroots mobilization to ensure a cohesive front for the 2028 contest. The race for the National Chairmanship has attracted significant political heavyweights, including former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko, who has vowed to rebuild the party into a "strong electoral force." Agyarko, supported by over 50 constituency chairpersons, joins other notable contenders such as former Chairman Paul Afoko and former General Secretary John Boadu. Internal discipline remains a priority during this transition; the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, recently cautioned members against referring to themselves as "incoming MPs," a practice he described as disrespectful to sitting legislators and damaging to party structures. Simultaneously, the party is intensifying its outreach to specific demographics, including the Nasara Wing and university students through youth engagement initiatives in Ayawaso West Wuogon. However, the NPP’s efforts have faced sharp criticism from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande argued that the NPP lacks the credibility to impact the 2028 elections, citing past mismanagement of state resources. Meanwhile, NPP communicators have criticized the current administration under President John Mahama, alleging a failure to deliver on campaign promises such as the "24-hour economy" and the automatic posting of trained nurses and teachers. Additional pressure is mounting from cocoa farmers, who have warned that their support in 2028 will depend on the government's ability to address concerns regarding COCOBOD management and fair returns for their produce. Despite these political tensions, early public opinion appears to favor the NPP’s standard-bearer. A nationwide survey conducted by Africa Policy Lens (APL) between July and August 2026 indicates that Dr. Bawumia maintains a lead over several potential NDC contenders in hypothetical matchups. The poll, which sampled over 16,000 voters, suggests that Bawumia’s appeal is expanding beyond traditional strongholds, with honesty, integrity, and economic performance cited as the primary factors influencing voter decisions. As the NPP moves toward its October national elections, the party's ability to successfully transition its leadership and address the concerns of the agricultural sector will be vital in sustaining this early momentum.

Mr Sammy Gyamfi
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Minority Leader and GoldBod CEO Clash Over Alleged $1.7 Billion Gold Trading Losses

A high-stakes political and financial dispute has erupted between the Minority in Parliament and the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) regarding the financial health of the nation’s gold trading operations. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has demanded immediate accountability for a reported $1.7 billion (GH¢22 billion) loss allegedly incurred under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). Citing a recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) report, the Minority contends that these losses represent approximately 1.5% of Ghana’s GDP and have called for an ad hoc parliamentary committee to investigate the entire gold supply chain, from extraction to risk management. Afenyo-Markin has challenged the integrity of GoldBod’s accounting, suggesting that the institution is obscuring financial liabilities while the Bank of Ghana (BoG) bears the brunt of the fiscal damage. GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi has vigorously refuted these allegations, describing them as a "smear campaign" and "political blackmail." During a session of the Government Accountability Series on August 19, 2026, Gyamfi asserted that GoldBod actually recorded an operational surplus of GH¢907 million and an overall profit exceeding GH¢5.4 billion for the 2025 fiscal year. He cited findings from the Auditor-General to support these figures and clarified that the $1.7 billion loss mentioned by the IMF is attributable to the Bank of Ghana’s specific policy design, not GoldBod’s mismanagement. Gyamfi argued that the DGPP, initiated in 2021 under the previous Akufo-Addo administration, was intentionally structured to prioritize foreign exchange acquisition over direct profit generation to stabilize the cedi during periods of limited international capital access. The debate has drawn significant attention from economic analysts and policy experts. Dr. Steve Manteaw, co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), defended the reported losses as necessary "transaction costs" for securing foreign exchange and strengthening national reserves. He noted that similar costs have been incurred in previous years without such intense political scrutiny. Conversely, economist Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin cautioned against crediting GoldBod for Ghana's recent macroeconomic stability, arguing that while the board has helped reduce gold smuggling, the country’s stability is primarily driven by broader fiscal and monetary policies. He warned that the costs associated with the domestic gold purchase arrangement might be unsustainable in the long term, noting that the government and the BoG are reportedly exploring an exit plan. As the political rhetoric intensifies, with Afenyo-Markin warning of "scary" legal consequences for officials and Gyamfi dismissing such threats as "comic relief," the focus now shifts to Parliament. Gyamfi has expressed his readiness to appear before the Public Accounts Committee or any parliamentary probe to defend the institution’s records, challenging the Minority Leader to stop holding press conferences and utilize official legislative channels. The outcome of this dispute remains critical for the administration of President John Mahama, as it tests the transparency of state institutions and the government’s ability to manage Ghana’s vital extractive resources amid ongoing economic recovery efforts.