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.

A large group of Ghanaian medical graduates posing for a formal group photograph in front of a building. They are all dressed in white medical lab coats and formal attire, with many wearing stethoscopes, representing a cohort of newly trained healthcare professionals.
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President Mahama Faces Urgent Appeals for Stranded Medics as Gender Ministry Unveils Social Protection Expansion

The administration of President John Mahama is navigating a complex landscape of domestic policy triumphs and urgent humanitarian appeals. While the Ministry for Gender, Children, and Social Protection has announced significant expansions to Ghana's social safety nets, the government is simultaneously facing intense pressure to intervene on behalf of hundreds of Ghanaian medical graduates currently stranded in Cuba. These developments come amid renewed calls for accountability regarding previous government expenditures, specifically concerning the auditing of COVID-19-related fumigation costs. In a major update on social welfare, Gender Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey revealed that the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program has seen a 70% increase in average grants since last year. Bi-monthly cash transfers have risen to GH¢630 for households with multiple vulnerable members, now supporting approximately 450,000 households. Furthermore, the Ghana School Feeding Programme has expanded its reach to 4.53 million children daily. These initiatives are now anchored by the Social Protection Act, 2025, which provides a robust legal framework for the ministry’s efforts to protect the rights of children and victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. However, this domestic progress is contrasted by a brewing crisis abroad. A group of Ghanaian medical graduates in Cuba, led by their president Raphael Oteng Boakye, has issued an urgent appeal to President Mahama to facilitate their immediate return home. Despite completing their studies on July 22, the graduates have seen their departure dates postponed multiple times. The students report significant psychological and financial strain, including expired health insurance and outstanding stipends. They are calling for government intervention to ensure they can return in time for mandatory clinical attachments and medical licensing examinations required for their integration into Ghana’s healthcare system. Adding to the political pressure, Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, has challenged the Auditor-General over the omission of significant COVID-19 fumigation expenditures in a recent special audit report. Speaking on JoyNews, the MP questioned the necessity of spending hundreds of millions of cedis on fumigation during periods when the public was largely confined to their homes. Citing investigative findings by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, Baidoo demanded greater transparency and a thorough explanation for why these substantial costs were not captured in the official audit, suggesting the total expenditure could be even higher when other institutions are considered. These converging issues highlight the multifaceted challenges facing the current administration. As President Mahama moves to solidify social protection through legislative and budgetary increases, he must also address the logistical hurdles of the scholarship secretariat and the persistent demands for fiscal transparency in public audits. The resolution of the Cuban graduates' plight and the clarification of the audit discrepancies will likely serve as key benchmarks for the administration's commitment to both citizen welfare and institutional accountability in the coming months.

A bridge currently under construction spans a wide, murky river with high water levels. The structure features concrete supports and a deck reinforced with exposed metal rebar, surrounded by red earth and rural vegetation.
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President Mahama Petitioned Over Rice Trade Policy as Ministry Moves to Sanction Delinquent Road Contractors

The Osudoku Youth Association (OYA) has formally petitioned President John Mahama to implement urgent regulatory measures on foreign rice importation to protect the local industry. The group is calling for the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to purchase surplus local rice from Osudoku, a major production hub, to prevent the financial collapse of local farmers. Beyond trade policy, the petition highlights critical development gaps, including the deteriorating condition of local roads, the abandonment of the Asutsuare Market project, and the urgent need to rehabilitate the Kpong Irrigation Scheme to ensure national food security. In a parallel development concerning infrastructure accountability, the Deputy Minister of Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, has raised alarms over a "troubling cycle" of project delays. According to the Ministry, some contractors are intentionally stalling projects to accrue interest on late payments, leading to massive budget overruns. Suhuyini cited instances where initial GH""1 million contracts ballooned to GH""5 million due to these delays. The Ministry has committed to stricter supervision and the enforcement of completion timelines to ensure value for money. This focus on infrastructure quality is echoed in the Upper West Region, where residents along the Tumu-Banu road project—initiated by President Mahama—are urging the contractor, Mawums Construction Limited, to increase bridge heights and drainage capacity to prevent seasonal flooding. Addressing economic pressures on the public, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) announced it is evaluating several strategies to cushion consumers against rising fuel prices. NPA Chief Executive Officer Godwin Kudzo Tameklo confirmed that multiple relief scenarios have been submitted to the Minister of Energy, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, for review. Meanwhile, the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is advocating for a more unified front within the renewable energy sector. Kwame Jantuah, Chairman of the Oil and Gas Sector at AGI, noted that a fragmented industry lacks the advocacy power necessary to influence policies that could accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. Finally, the government is facing scrutiny over law enforcement conduct in the capital. Commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, have reported widespread extortion by officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Directorate (MTTD). These riders allege being forced to pay arbitrary fees of up to GHC 200 during traffic stops. While the Ghana Police Service has already interdicted seven officers for misconduct, there are growing calls for the integration of more technology in traffic enforcement to reduce direct physical interactions and curb bribery. Together, these developments highlight a busy period for the Mahama administration as it navigates complex demands for economic relief, infrastructure accountability, and institutional reform.

A group of officials and attendees participate in a cake-cutting ceremony during the 10th Annual Conference of the Ghana Sociological and Anthropological Association (GSAA). The event features a large purple banner with the conference theme focusing on social exclusion and resource extraction in Africa.
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GSAA and GIISDEC Demand Apolitical Mining Enforcement Amid Green Ghana Project Failure

The Ghana Sociological and Anthropological Association (GSAA) and state agencies are intensifying calls for decisive action to address the devastating impacts of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. During its 10th Annual Conference, the GSAA labeled the destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and community health as "intolerable," demanding that the government enforce environmental laws without political bias. This plea for apolitical governance coincides with recent field operations by the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), which targeted illegal operators in the Akango area of the Nzema East Municipality. Led by CEO Williams Okofo-Dateh, the joint operation near the River Ankobra resulted in the seizure of mining equipment intended for decommissioning to mitigate further environmental damage. Okofo-Dateh emphasized that while these raids are successful, sustainable progress requires significantly more resources for continuous oversight to prevent miners from returning to cleared sites. Beyond enforcement, the GSAA, represented by Professor William Boateng, has urged a shift toward competitive hiring in public service and the establishment of robust, documented compensation agreements between mining firms and local communities to ensure fair recovery of livelihoods. While the government focuses on enforcement, Ghana's reforestation efforts are facing severe criticism following a Daily Graphic investigation into the Green Ghana Project. The report revealed a staggering 90% mortality rate for seedlings planted in the Upper East Region, despite official claims of 60-80% survival rates. Independent checks of a sample of 1,900 seedlings found that only 7.5% had actually survived. Local farmers and investigators pointed to a lack of consultation regarding species suitable for the northern climate, inadequate maintenance, and extreme weather as primary causes. This failure has sparked fresh scrutiny over seedling procurement and financial accountability within the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. The regional urgency for improved resource governance is further highlighted by a humanitarian tragedy in neighboring Nigeria, where a panel is investigating the deaths of 37 young men in a crowded detention cell in Niger State. The deceased had been arrested for suspected illegal gold mining, and their deaths have drawn condemnation from Amnesty International. As Ghana navigates its own environmental challenges, from the persistent threat of galamsey to the failure of large-scale tree-planting initiatives, experts argue that success will depend on moving beyond rhetoric toward transparent, science-based policies and rigorous institutional accountability to protect the nation's natural heritage.

A close-up photograph of the classical stone facade of the United States Treasury Department building in Washington, D.C. The image highlights the detailed Ionic columns and the institution's name engraved prominently in the architecture.
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President Mahama Departs for UN General Assembly as Ghana Hosts Regional Tax and Security Summits

President John Dramani Mahama has departed Accra for New York to participate in the 81st UN General Assembly, a pivotal mission focused on Africa's renewal and global historical justice. During his visit, President Mahama is scheduled to host high-level events, including the "Accra Reset" on September 21 and a session on reparatory justice on September 23. The President is expected to deliver Ghana’s official statement during the General Debate on September 24, where he will advocate for reparatory justice and seek to strengthen business investment and diplomatic ties with world leaders. This international engagement underscores Ghana's growing role in shaping global discourse on development and historical accountability. While the President represents Ghana on the global stage, domestic policy leaders are focusing on regional economic stability. At the 8th High-Level Policy Dialogue of the West African Tax Administration Forum (WATAF) in Accra, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson called for enhanced tax cooperation among African nations to safeguard domestic revenue. He emphasized the importance of addressing base erosion, profit shifting, and the challenges of the digital economy. Supporting this call, Ghana Revenue Authority Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong urged tax administrations to broaden their bases and leverage technology to improve compliance. Both leaders stressed that robust tax systems are essential for maintaining the social contract and financing sustainable development across the continent. Security remains a top priority for the administration, highlighted by recent high-level talks between European Union (EU) Ambassador Rune Skinnebach and Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno. The dialogue focused on deepening cooperation in cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and community policing. Ambassador Skinnebach reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting the Ghana Police Service through specialized training and forensic investigation capacity building. This partnership is viewed as a vital component of Ghana’s strategy to maintain internal stability and contribute to regional security in West Africa. On the international front, several significant geopolitical shifts are being monitored. The United States has recently lifted sanctions on Eritrea, a move intended to advance regional interests in the Red Sea as an alternative shipping route amid ongoing Middle Eastern tensions. Conversely, Uganda has suspended military ties with Turkey following the latter's refusal to extradite dissident Fred Lumbuye, who faces charges of incitement. In Eastern Europe, Russian officials reported that over 212,000 citizens voted abroad in the State Duma elections, surpassing previous turnout figures despite what Moscow characterized as external interference. These events highlight a volatile global landscape that continues to influence Ghana’s foreign policy and economic outlook. Together, these developments illustrate a multifaceted political environment for Ghana. From President Mahama’s advocacy for global justice at the UN to the Finance Ministry's push for regional tax sovereignty, the government is actively navigating both domestic revenue challenges and international security partnerships. As Ghana continues to promote its development agenda, the success of these diplomatic and administrative efforts will be crucial in ensuring economic resilience and national security in an increasingly complex global arena.

The official flag of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), one of Ghana's major political parties. The flag features horizontal stripes of black, red, white, and green, with the party's umbrella symbol and the text 'NDC' centered on the white stripe.
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Eugene Boakye Antwi Leads NPP General Secretary Polls as NDC Finalizes Akatsi South Elections Amid Ho Regional Dispute

As Ghana's major political parties intensify their internal reorganization efforts, a new University of Ghana poll has positioned Eugene Boakye Antwi as the clear frontrunner for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) General Secretary position. The study, which surveyed 889 NPP delegates, indicates that 74.2% of respondents expect Antwi to win the upcoming election scheduled for October 3, 2026. This puts him significantly ahead of the incumbent General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, who received only 25.1% in the expected vote tally. Delegates highlighted communication prowess and the ability to unify the party as the most critical traits needed to lead the NPP into the 2028 general elections, with the Electoral Commission set to supervise the process. Parallel to the national contests, local-level mobilization is peaking within the National Democratic Congress (NDC). In the Akatsi South Constituency, the party's Election Directorate has finalized nominations for its executive elections, with 55 aspirants cleared to contest 18 different positions. The most anticipated race is for the chairmanship, where Anthony Solo Adotevi and Anthony Kojo Owusu are set to face off. These constituency elections, slated for October 24-25, 2026, are part of the NDC's broader strategy to solidify its grassroots structure during President John Mahama's current administration. The party has urged all candidates to strictly adhere to the electoral timetable to ensure a smooth transition. However, the political climate remains charged with inter-party friction, notably in the Volta Region. The NPP has accused the NDC of intentionally targeting its infrastructure following the demolition of a fence at the NPP Regional Office in Ho. James Geh, the NPP’s Ho Central Communications Officer, suggested the move was a politically motivated attack coinciding with National Farmers’ Day preparations. Conversely, NDC regional representatives, including Mr. Agbleze, have dismissed these claims, asserting that the demolition was a non-partisan necessity for a road reservation project and municipal development. As both parties continue their internal elections, these localized disputes highlight the heightened stakes leading into the next national electoral cycle.

Veteran Ghanaian journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr. is seen laughing while seated next to a dignitary in academic regalia at a University of Cape Coast function. The image captures several prominent figures, including a man in traditional Kente cloth, attending what appears to be a formal ceremony.
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Dr. Kwesi Pratt Jnr Advocates for Nkrumah’s Development Vision Amid Warnings Over NDC Succession Tensions

Veteran journalist and managing editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has been conferred with an honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Cape Coast (UCC), marking over fifty years of contribution to journalism and social justice. During the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lecture at the university, Dr. Pratt delivered a compelling call for Ghana to revisit the strategic foundations of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s Seven-Year Development Plan (1963-1970). He argued that the plan’s focus on state-led industrialization, infrastructure, and education remains the most viable blueprint for transforming Ghana from a dependent, raw-material-exporting economy into a self-sufficient modern state. Addressing contemporary economic challenges, Dr. Pratt refuted historical claims that Dr. Nkrumah’s policies wrecked the national economy. Instead, he asserted that Nkrumah inherited a colonial economic structure and successfully created enduring national assets despite facing fluctuating cocoa prices and rising external debt. He emphasized that political independence is incomplete without economic transformation, advocating for a renewed commitment to national planning, enhanced management, and strict accountability to resolve the country's ongoing financial difficulties. He urged current leaders to prioritize long-term national interests over short-term political gains. Beyond economic policy, Dr. Pratt raised concerns regarding internal dynamics within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC). He criticized certain appointees of President John Mahama for prioritizing their personal ambitions to succeed the President rather than focusing on the implementation of the administration's "reset agenda." According to Pratt, these individuals appear more interested in positioning themselves for the next presidential race than in aiding the President's current developmental goals. This critique follows revelations that the NDC Council of Elders had to intervene last year to mitigate rising tensions and prevent internal divisions that could hinder the party's governance. The recent honors and lectures have drawn significant praise from political figures, including Member of Parliament Rockson-Nelson E.K. Dafeamekpor, who described Dr. Pratt as a "Senior Comrade" whose work has made complex public policy issues accessible to the average citizen. As President Mahama continues his term, Pratt’s dual message serves as both an ideological guide for economic recovery and a stern warning to the NDC leadership. The veteran journalist’s insights suggest that the success of the current administration will depend largely on its ability to maintain internal unity and adopt the disciplined, state-led developmental approach championed by Ghana’s first president.

A woman appears as a guest on the Ghanaian current affairs program 'Newsfile'. She is seen looking attentively during a discussion on constitutional reforms, with a news banner at the bottom of the screen reading 'CRC PROPOSALS IN LIMBO'.
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CDD-Ghana and Civil Society Coalitions Demand Legislative Framework to Safeguard Constitutional Reforms

The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), supported by a coalition of over 100 civil society organizations (CSOs), is advocating for the enactment of a formal law to guide and sustain Ghana’s constitutional reform process. This call for a statutory implementation roadmap aims to ensure that the momentum for reform remains uninterrupted by changes in government or political transitions. With a proposed national referendum scheduled for 2027 and general elections in 2028, advocates emphasize that a legislative framework is essential to provide a clear path forward and prevent the frequent 'restarts' that have historically plagued constitutional review efforts. CDD-Ghana Programmes Officer Vera Abena Addo highlighted that a formal roadmap would help mitigate disruptions caused by shifting political priorities. The proposed legislation is intended to distinguish between reforms that can be implemented immediately and those requiring longer-term negotiation and consensus-building. By anchoring the process in law, the coalition seeks to unify diverse stakeholders—including political parties like the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and labor groups such as the Trades Union Congress (TUC)—around a consistent and inclusive reform agenda that transcends electoral cycles. Concurrent with these calls for procedural safeguards, the government’s specific positions on the 2025 Constitution Review have come under intense scrutiny, particularly regarding decentralization. While the administration has accepted several recommendations from the review committee, it has proposed significant modifications to how local leaders are chosen. A major point of contention is the government’s model for electing Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). Under this proposal, the President would retain the power to nominate candidates who would then be vetted before contesting a public election, a move critics label as "presidential gatekeeping." Governance experts and development practitioners argue that this nomination-based electoral model fails to address the fundamental issue of downward accountability. By keeping the selection of candidates in the hands of the presidency, critics suggest the reform may merely reshape existing power dynamics rather than empowering citizens with genuine electoral choice. Furthermore, there are concerns that this approach could complicate the electoral calendar and create a detachment between MMDCE contests and broader District Assembly elections, potentially undermining the goal of a truly democratic local governance system. As Ghana moves toward the 2027 referendum, the tension between civil society’s demand for a structured, law-backed process and the government’s specific policy preferences remains a central theme in the national discourse. The success of the constitutional review will likely depend on whether the state can balance executive oversight with the public's demand for deeper decentralization and more transparent leadership selection. For now, the push for a legislative anchor serves as a critical attempt to ensure that the multi-year reform effort results in a lasting democratic legacy that survives beyond the current political administration.

Aerial shot of the mountain of waste to be cleared at Agbogbloshie site
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President Mahama Launches Major Waste Evacuation as Parliament Scrutinizes District Sanitation Spending

President John Mahama has initiated an emergency waste evacuation project along the Odaw River in Accra, coinciding with a rigorous nationwide monitoring exercise by Parliament’s Select Committee on Sanitation and Water Resources. While the President’s initiative aims to clear approximately one million tonnes of accumulated waste at Agbogbloshie to prevent flooding and facilitate urban renewal, the Parliamentary Committee is demanding strict accountability from local authorities regarding the use of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). This dual approach of high-level intervention and local government transparency highlights a renewed national effort to address Ghana's persistent sanitation and waste management challenges. The Select Committee has specifically summoned the Nkwanta North District Assembly to appear in Accra for further questioning following a presentation that left members dissatisfied. Member of Parliament Ibrahimah Mohammed Zuwera emphasized that the Committee is focused on ensuring the 10% DACF allocation for water and sanitation is utilized effectively and transparently, warning against misattributing mismanagement to funding delays. While the Committee expressed concern over Nkwanta North, it praised the Volta Region as the cleanest in the country during its assessment. Most assemblies in the Volta and Oti regions have demonstrated effective use of funds for institutional toilets, boreholes, and drainage works, though many local leaders continue to advocate for more predictable and increased financial support. In Krachi East, Municipal Chief Executive Safo Nketiah highlighted the vital role of private sector collaboration, praising Zoomlion Ghana Limited for its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and the use of the IRECOP facility for waste disposal. This sentiment was echoed by Committee Chairman John Oti Bless, who urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to move beyond drafting regulations to strictly enforcing sanitation bylaws. The Committee is now advocating for a dedicated national sanitation fund and stronger partnerships between the government and private investors to shift the national focus from mere waste disposal to sustainable recycling and industrialization. On the ground in Accra, President Mahama’s visit to the Agbogbloshie site marked the beginning of a 90-day operation involving the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. The successful clearing of the Odaw River basin is expected to pave the way for an industrial park and a major textile factory, which the President noted will create significant employment opportunities for locals. As the Parliamentary Committee continues its tour toward the Central and Western regions, the government maintains that public discipline, corporate support, and rigorous oversight remain essential to sustaining these sanitation gains and transforming Ghana’s environmental landscape.

NDC Chairman Asiedu Nketiah Champions Nkrumah’s Legacy and Calls for Scrutiny of Government Expenditure
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NDC Chairman Asiedu Nketiah Champions Nkrumah’s Legacy and Calls for Scrutiny of Government Expenditure

Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for a renewed commitment to national accountability while vigorously defending the historical legacy of Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Speaking at the launch of the 'Nkrumah Fest,' Nketiah condemned recent attempts to downplay Nkrumah’s role in the formation of modern Ghana. He argued that before Nkrumah’s leadership, the concept of a unified Ghana did not exist, as previous independence efforts were largely confined to the Gold Coast colony and excluded the Ashanti Kingdom and the Northern Territories. Nketiah, who credited Nkrumah’s educational policies for his own career advancement, asserted that no other nationalist can compare to the man globally recognized as the 'African of the Century.' In a parallel address at the 4th Bono Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards in Sunyani, the NDC Chairman shifted focus to contemporary governance, urging the media to maintain a rigorous watchdog role over the current administration. Despite his position as chairman of the ruling party, Nketiah emphasized that the government must expect and embrace public scrutiny. He specifically called on journalists to track public expenditure, monitor the progress of ministerial promises, and maintain detailed records of government projects to ensure transparency and value for money. This stance highlights a significant call for internal accountability and professional integrity within the nation's political and media landscape. Central to his message at the GJA Awards was the urgent need for improved working conditions and institutional support for journalists. Nketiah argued that for the media to effectively hold power to account, professionals must be provided with the necessary resources and financial independence to avoid being compromised by political interests. He advocated for a stronger focus on regional journalism, which he noted often lacks the attention and resources afforded to national outlets. By fostering a dignified environment for the press, Nketiah suggested that the media could better serve as an essential pillar of societal transformation and democratic stability. The events also served to recognize excellence in the field, with several journalists honored for their contributions to impactful reporting. Lawrence Yeboah Gyan was named the overall Bono Regional Best Journalist of the Year 2025, while Precious Semevoh received accolades for outstanding work in climate change and children’s advocacy. Supported by remarks from Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice Chancellor of UENR, the gatherings underscored a collective demand for truth, ethics, and a deep respect for Ghana’s foundational history as the country navigates its current political and developmental challenges under the leadership of President John Mahama.

Major drug cases must not end with press statement’ – NPP Oti Treasurer
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President Mahama Establishes Task Force Amid Growing Calls for Accountability Following Major International Drug Seizures

President John Mahama has directed the formation of an inter-agency task force to combat drug trafficking following the interception of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine, valued at approximately €225 million, by French authorities. The shipment, which has been linked to Ghana, has sparked a national debate over the country’s security protocols and international reputation. In response to these vulnerabilities, the President has mandated the task force to deliver a comprehensive roadmap to enhance collaboration among security agencies and strengthen the nation’s borders against sophisticated narcotics networks. This move follows other recent high-profile cases, including a 320-kilogram methamphetamine shipment intercepted in Australia earlier in 2026. The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has moved to dispel rumors surrounding the investigation, specifically denying claims that any suspects were part of the presidential security detail. NACOC Deputy Director-General Alexander Twum-Barimah clarified that preliminary checks found no evidence linking suspects, such as Musah Atta, to President Mahama’s protection team. This clarification came as Peter Lanchene Toobu, Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, rejected calls from the Minority to recall Parliament for a special session. Toobu argued that existing parliamentary committees are sufficiently equipped to handle oversight during the current recess, advocating for systemic reforms and proactive measures rather than what he described as reactive micromanagement. Experts and lawmakers are calling for a significant overhaul of Ghana’s counter-narcotics infrastructure to address these lapses. Mr. Toobu emphasized that NACOC requires a substantial increase in its workforce—which currently numbers fewer than 2,000 personnel—alongside specialized training and modernized technology at the nation's ports. Similarly, Dr. Joshua Ebuntie Zaato of the University of Ghana has urged for the identification and arrest of port security officials who supervised the inspection of containers linked to the Australia shipment. Critics, including NPP Oti Regional Treasurer Nicholas Baafi Boadi, have warned that major cases must result in transparent prosecutions of high-level financiers rather than ending with mere press statements that target only low-level couriers. As the investigation continues, government communicators and security analysts are urging a unified, non-partisan approach to the crisis to safeguard Ghana’s international image. Haruna Amaliba Kingsley of the Government Communications Team cautioned against exploiting drug busts for political gain, noting that the resulting stigma affects all Ghanaians traveling abroad regardless of their political affiliation. Emmanuel Kotin, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Security and Counterterrorism, further stressed the importance of identifying the powerful networks financing these shipments. The coming weeks will be critical as the newly formed task force prepares its blueprint to restore public trust and secure Ghana’s strategic ports of entry.

A composite image showing a split-screen of two prominent Ghanaian figures engaged in discussion. On the left, a man in a white garment speaks into a studio microphone, while on the right, a man in a suit and glasses points emphatically while speaking into a desk microphone.
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Ghana Police Uncover 'Ghana Jollof' TikTok Network; Senior Nurse Remanded Amid Growing Political Tensions

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its crackdown on the 'Ghana Jollof' TikTok operations, declaring UK-based personality Barbara Asantewaa Kodua wanted for alleged incitement of violence and the spread of false news. The investigation recently led to the arrest and remand of Salomey Awity Baffoe, a senior nursing officer, who is accused of abetting the operation by redistributing offensive content and managing financial transfers from the UK. Baffoe, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of abetment of crime, is currently in custody as authorities work to dismantle what they describe as a network designed to incite public unrest and fear. Police report that forensic evidence suggests Baffoe played a central role in circulating videos and disbursing funds to other local collaborators. The arrest has ignited a fierce political debate regarding the boundaries of free speech and the use of state power. Barbara Asantewaa Kodua has dismissed the charges as political persecution, claiming Baffoe is being targeted because of her husband's ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Speaking from the UK, Kodua has dared the Ghanaian government to attempt extradition, asserting that international authorities would recognize the case as politically motivated. This sentiment was echoed by the NPP Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, who cautioned the Mahama administration against using state institutions to target citizens for social media commentary, reminding the government that "power is transient" and urging respect for due process. Adding to the pressure on the government, Akosua Manu, an advisor to NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has appealed directly to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to intervene. Manu emphasized Baffoe’s role as a mother of three and urged the Vice President to use her influence to protect the rights of women and families from perceived state overreach. Conversely, legal experts like former Tamale Central MP Inusah Fuseini have defended the police action, arguing that the investigation does not infringe on constitutional free speech rights because the law does not protect activities that incite panic or violate criminal statutes. Political science lecturer Dr. Joshua Ebuntie Zaato has advised President John Mahama to stay closely informed on the developments, warning that the case could negatively impact the President’s legacy if it is perceived as an attempt to stifle dissent. Zaato suggested that Mahama should ensure the case is handled with transparency to protect his image as a democratic leader. As the police continue to search for other members of the alleged network, the case remains a significant test for the current administration’s approach to digital discourse and national security. Salomey Awity Baffoe is scheduled to reappear in court on September 30, 2026. While the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, has clarified that the allegations do not amount to treason, the legal proceedings are expected to set a major precedent for how Ghana manages the intersection of political dissent and public order in the digital age. The government maintains that while free speech is protected, threats against public officials and the dissemination of false news that incites alarm will continue to face legal consequences.

Dr. Akwasi Oppong-Fosu Targets NDC Chairmanship Amid Broad Media Reforms and Evolving Diplomatic Ties in Ghana
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Dr. Akwasi Oppong-Fosu Targets NDC Chairmanship Amid Broad Media Reforms and Evolving Diplomatic Ties in Ghana

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is witnessing a strategic shift in its internal leadership as Dr. Akwasi Oppong-Fosu officially launches his bid for the National Chairmanship. Endorsed by prominent figures including former MP Inusah Fuseini, Oppong-Fosu’s campaign centers on the themes of "restoration, renewal, and reset," aiming to strengthen the party’s institutional framework to support the administration of President John Mahama. This internal positioning follows reflections from former National Organiser Joshua Hamidu Akamba regarding the President’s resilience after the 2016 election defeat, illustrating a period of party consolidation. Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) remains active in the policy space, with presidential candidate Mahamudu Bawumia advocating for increased autonomy for mission schools to enhance national discipline and educational development. On the governance front, Minister of State for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu has announced an ambitious 24-month roadmap to modernize state-owned media institutions, including the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) and the Graphic Communications Group. The initiative is designed to improve the competitiveness of state media against digital platforms while reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to press freedom. This commitment is being showcased internationally as the government backs the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in its bid to host the Sixth Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) Congress. These domestic efforts to protect the press stand in stark contrast to recent developments in the United States, where President Donald Trump has initiated a controversial ban on major outlets like CNN and Politico from the White House, citing claims of misinformation. In the realm of international relations and security, Ghana is deepening its ties with Western partners ahead of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the U.S. in 2027. The U.S. Embassy in Accra recently welcomed Pam DeVolder as the new Public Affairs Officer, while European Union Ambassador Rune Skinnebach held high-level talks with Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno to bolster cooperation in cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and community policing. However, these partnerships are facing renewed scrutiny from civil society; veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has raised concerns over the 2018 Ghana-US Defence Cooperation Agreement, arguing that certain provisions regarding frequency usage and property damage claims undermine national sovereignty. Domestically, the government faces mounting calls for accountability and justice. In Parliament, the Minority is demanding a transparent audit of expenditures related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following allegations of irregular payments to officials and administrative scandals. Simultaneously, a tragic police-involved incident on the Tema Motorway has sparked a national conversation on law enforcement conduct. Following the death of 20-year-old law student Ivan Apprey Baidoo, his family has vowed to pursue justice as General Corporal Robert Katey Koranteng faces murder charges. These events occur against a backdrop of broader democratic tensions in Africa, where recent data suggests that while support for elections remains high, public trust in electoral commissions is significantly declining.