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.

President Mahama assents to Tribunals Bill, and 9 other bills
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President John Mahama Reshuffles Cabinet and Enacts Ten Landmark Legislative Reforms

President John Mahama has initiated a strategic restructuring of his administration, marked by a high-level cabinet reshuffle and the signing of ten significant bills into law. These executive actions, announced in late August 2026, are designed to streamline government operations, enhance revenue collection, and modernize the nation's justice and security frameworks. A central feature of the reshuffle is the reassignment of Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo to the Ministry of State for Special Initiatives, with Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum taking over Pelpuo's former role as Minister of Labour, Employment, and Job Creation. Dr. Pelpuo expressed his commitment to the new role, noting the overwhelming support received from his constituents in Wa Central. In a concurrent move, President Mahama appointed Ernest Brogya Genfi as the Presidential Adviser on National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness. Genfi, who previously served as Deputy Minister for Defence, expressed profound gratitude for the appointment and pledged "unwavering loyalty" to the President. This transition follows a broader reorganization that includes changes within the parliamentary leadership; the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially appointed James Agalga as the new Majority Leader. Agalga succeeds Mahama Ayariga, who has been nominated as the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. Mr. Ayariga is scheduled for parliamentary vetting alongside Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the nominee for the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology. On the legislative front, President Mahama has assented to ten bills aimed at plugging revenue leakages and reforming public services. Key enactments include the Customs Act, 2026, which consolidates previous laws for more efficient administration, and the Community Service Act, 2026, which introduces non-custodial sentencing for minor offences. Other notable laws include the Tribunals Act, the Maritime and Related Offences Act, and the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, which seeks to ensure fair pricing for farmers and promote local processing. Additionally, fiscal reforms through the Income Tax and VAT Amendment Acts provide tax exemptions for low-income earners, signaling a commitment to social equity and economic relief for minimum wage workers. These developments have garnered praise from various sectors. The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) commended President Mahama for the passage of C.I. 141, a landmark achievement expected to stabilize working conditions for judicial staff that remained unresolved for decades. Furthermore, Senior Presidential Advisor Joyce Bawah Mogtari highlighted the administration's deliberate efforts to elevate women in political leadership, citing the nominations of Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings and Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. As Parliament prepares to vet ministerial and Supreme Court nominees—including Justice Sophia Bernasko-Essah and Justice Edward Amoako Asante—the administration appears focused on consolidating its policy agenda through robust legal and personnel alignment.

Public policy research institute demands answers from GoldBod over 'missing' trade reports from website
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Special Prosecutor Names Former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor as Person of Interest in $1 Million Bribery Probe

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has announced a "rebirth" of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) following a landmark Supreme Court ruling that reaffirmed the institution’s constitutional authority. This revitalization coincides with the naming of five high-profile "persons of interest" in a bribery investigation involving former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) MD Asante Kwaku Berko and Turkish energy firm Aksa Enerji. Among those named is former Power Minister Dr. Kwabena Donkor, alongside former advisors and officials from the Ministry of Power and Tricorp Group. The probe stems from Berko’s conviction in the United States for conspiring to pay over $1 million in bribes to Ghanaian officials between 2014 and 2015 to facilitate a power plant project. While Agyebeng clarified that being named a person of interest does not imply guilt, the OSP is working with the FBI to align U.S.-tested evidence with Ghana’s legal standards for potential prosecution. The OSP’s move has sparked immediate political friction, with Dr. Donkor’s legal representative, K.T. Hammond, describing the public naming as "completely unprofessional" and a breach of proper investigative procedure. Despite this, Agyebeng defended his office’s track record, citing the recovery of GH"8.5 million and $2 million, and state savings exceeding GH"100 million through payroll cleanups. He specifically highlighted the OSP’s role in preventing the sale of the state-owned Tema Oil Refinery, which President John Mahama recently announced has resumed full operations. The Special Prosecutor urged critics to judge the office by measurable outcomes rather than political rhetoric, asserting that the institution has made corruption significantly more costly for both public and private actors. Simultaneously, the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has come under intense scrutiny following an IMF report detailing US$1.7 billion in losses within the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). The Africa Policy Lens (APL) and the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) are demanding forensic investigations and transparency regarding the removal of quarterly trade reports from the board’s website. While the NPP has criticized the government’s gold trading architecture, the Majority in Parliament has dismissed claims that GoldBod’s operations contribute to illegal mining (galamsey). Meanwhile, NPP communications officials have claimed that the Mahama administration's current economic stability relies heavily on the gold policies introduced by the previous administration’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. These developments come as President Mahama continues to reshuffle his administration to sharpen its focus on national resilience. In a recent move, Ernest Brogya Genfi was reassigned from his post as Deputy Minister for Defence to serve as Presidential Advisor on National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness. As the OSP pursues its investigation into the energy sector bribery scandal and civil society groups push for accountability at GoldBod, the government faces a critical juncture in balancing its energy-hub ambitions with the need for transparent financial governance. The successful prosecution of the named persons of interest will likely serve as a litmus test for the OSP’s newly affirmed mandate and the administration's broader commitment to combating high-level corruption.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin — Minority Leader in Parliament, Sammy Gyamfi — CEO, Ghana Gold Board
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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin Sues Gold Board CEO for GH"15m as Extortion Claims Spark Parliamentary Trust Crisis

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has initiated a high-stakes defamation lawsuit against Sammy Gyamfi, CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, and the Multimedia Group Limited, seeking GH"15 million in damages. The legal action follows a live broadcast on JoyNews’ Newsfile in August 2026, where Gyamfi allegedly labeled the Effutu Member of Parliament an “extortionist” during discussions regarding financial losses in the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme. Afenyo-Markin, who has vehemently denied the allegations, is demanding a public retraction and apology, asserting that the comments were a malicious attempt to tarnish his reputation and suggest an abuse of political influence. The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court, aims to prevent further publication of the alleged defamatory remarks while seeking significant financial compensation. Afenyo-Markin’s legal team contends that the “extortionist” tag has caused irreparable harm to his standing as a public official. However, political opponents have questioned the motivation behind the suit. Hamza Suhuyini of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) dismissed the move as a strategic attempt to “buy time” and manage internal dissent within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), while veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr warned that the lawsuit poses significant risks to the Minority Leader’s credibility should he lose the case. Beyond the personal legal battle, the controversy has reignited a fierce debate over the integrity of Ghana’s Parliament. Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, a Democracy and Development Fellow at CDD-Ghana, warned that such allegations deepen an existing “crisis of confidence” in the legislature. Citing Afrobarometer data that reflects high perceptions of corruption and low public trust in Parliament, Dr. Osae-Kwapong emphasized that ongoing scandals could undermine the very foundations of Ghanaian democracy. This institutional friction is exacerbated by recent complaints from the Minority Caucus regarding the conduct of parliamentary business, including early adjournments during emergency sessions that have left critical bills unaddressed. Governance experts are now calling for structural reforms to ensure that allegations against lawmakers are handled with transparency rather than partisan bias. Dr. Rasheed Dramani, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Parliamentary Affairs, criticized the “culture of partisan solidarity” that often shields Members of Parliament from accountability. He argued that while Parliament is quick to investigate the Executive branch, it lacks the moral authority to scrutinize its own members effectively. To restore public trust, Dr. Dramani proposed the formation of independent committees including eminent citizens to investigate misconduct claims, insisting that a clear path from investigation to resolution is essential for the nation's political maturity.

High Court Dismisses Adjournment Plea in GH¢49.1m Trial of Former Signals Bureau Chief Kwadwo Adu-Boahene
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High Court Dismisses Adjournment Plea in GH¢49.1m Trial of Former Signals Bureau Chief Kwadwo Adu-Boahene

The Accra High Court has dismissed an application by the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwadwo Adu-Boahene, to suspend his trial pending a decision from the Supreme Court. Presiding judge Justice Francis Apanga Achibonga ruled that the trial must proceed, rejecting a request by lead defense counsel Samuel Atta Akyea to wait for a Supreme Court review concerning the legality of criminal proceedings during the legal vacation. Adu-Boahene, along with several others including his wife, is facing 11 charges related to conspiracy, money laundering, and the alleged misappropriation of GH¢49.1 million intended for a national cybersecurity system. The defense had argued for an adjournment until at least September 2, 2026, when the apex court is expected to rule on a related injunction. Atta Akyea expressed disappointment with the High Court’s decision, suggesting that judicial prudence should have favored waiting for the Supreme Court's guidance. However, the Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, vehemently opposed the delay, informing the court that the prosecution was on the verge of completing its case and had only one day of evidence remaining. Justice Achibonga concurred with the state, noting that existing Supreme Court rulings remain binding until overturned and that no specific rule compelled him to stay proceedings due to a pending review application. During the resumed proceedings, the court heard testimony from Frank Marshall Cromwell, a lead investigator from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). Under cross-examination, Cromwell made a significant admission that investigators had not taken a statement from ISC Holdings Limited, the purported supplier of the cyber-defence system at the heart of the case. While Cromwell confirmed that the NSB acknowledged operating certain systems from ISC Holdings, he could not specify which systems were verified, raising questions from the defense about the thoroughness of the investigation into the delivery of the high-value equipment. Despite the ongoing legal friction, a moment of social cordiality was observed outside the courtroom as Kwadwo Adu-Boahene and Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai were seen interacting at a burial service in Berekum for the father of the current NSB Director-General, Dr. George Atta Boateng. As the trial moves forward, all eyes remain on the Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling in September, which could still influence the procedural landscape of this high-profile corruption case. All accused persons have pleaded not guilty and remain on bail as the prosecution prepares to close its case.

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Ghana Armed Forces Launch Exercise Resolute Synergy 2026 to Bolster National Security Readiness

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have officially commenced "Exercise Resolute Synergy 2026," a comprehensive three-day tabletop simulation designed to enhance the nation's military preparedness against emerging security threats. Running from August 25 to August 27, 2026, the exercise serves as a critical platform for testing the military's decision-making processes and command structures. By bringing together various military and state entities, the GAF aims to establish a unified and proactive approach to national defense in an increasingly unpredictable regional environment. Led by Brigadier General William Archibald Kwabiah, the exercise focuses on fostering high-level collaboration across multiple domains, including land, maritime, air, cyber, and information. General Kwabiah emphasized that the modern security landscape is characterized by complex, multi-dimensional challenges that require a highly coordinated response. The tabletop nature of the exercise allows senior officers and stakeholders to simulate crisis scenarios, identifying capability gaps and weaknesses that can be transformed into opportunities for institutional improvement and refined operational readiness. Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. William Agyapong, underscored the strategic significance of this initiative, noting that it comes at a time of rising security volatility within the West African sub-region. With the threat of violent extremism and other unconventional security pressures on the rise, the exercise is intended to reinforce operational effectiveness and institutional cohesion. Lt. Gen. Agyapong highlighted that "Exercise Resolute Synergy 2026" is a key component of the GAF’s broader strategy to develop a more cohesive and resilient military force capable of seamless inter-agency coordination. As the exercise concludes on August 27, the GAF plans to document the lessons learned and refine its command structures to better handle real-world security pressures. This focus on documentation ensures that the insights gained during the three-day simulation are integrated into future operational planning. Ultimately, the GAF seeks to ensure that all military services and national stakeholders are equipped with the necessary tools and collaborative frameworks to maintain peace and stability in Ghana amid evolving global threats.

President Bola Tinubu Orders Military Rescue After Mass Mosque Kidnapping in Niger State
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President Bola Tinubu Orders Military Rescue After Mass Mosque Kidnapping in Niger State

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed the country's military and security agencies to launch an immediate rescue operation following a devastating mass kidnapping in Niger State. The attack, which targeted a mosque, resulted in the abduction of approximately 600 individuals, including women and children, and left at least 30 people dead. This incident is being described as one of the largest mass abductions in recent years, significantly escalating security concerns in Nigeria's north-central region and exposing critical vulnerabilities in the nation's protective infrastructure. The assault has sent shockwaves through the country, highlighting the intensifying threat posed by armed militant groups. While the exact number of abductees is currently being verified by officials, the sheer scale of the violence has already forced a significant number of residents to flee across the border into neighboring Benin. The presidency has condemned the attack in the strongest terms, with President Tinubu emphasizing the government's commitment to protecting its citizens and vowing to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. In a parallel development concerning national governance and accountability, the Department of State Services (DSS) has launched an investigation into the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The probe centers on the utilization of a N17 billion intervention fund previously approved by President Tinubu. These funds were specifically earmarked to address outstanding payments, including wages and bonuses, for players within Nigeria's national teams. The investigation marks a broader effort by the administration to ensure transparency in the management of state resources amidst the ongoing security crisis. These dual challenges—a massive security breach in Niger State and a high-stakes financial probe—place significant pressure on the Tinubu administration to deliver on its promises of stability and transparent governance. As the military intensifies its search for the hundreds of kidnapped citizens, the government remains under intense scrutiny regarding the recurring nature of mass abductions for ransom. The success of the current rescue operations and the integrity of the DSS investigation will likely serve as critical benchmarks for the administration's effectiveness in tackling both national insecurity and institutional corruption.

Tanzania's Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi Resigns in Unprecedented Move After 10 Months in Office
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Tanzania's Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi Resigns in Unprecedented Move After 10 Months in Office

In a historic and unexpected development, Tanzania’s Vice-President Emmanuel Nchimbi has announced his resignation from office, marking the first time a sitting vice-president has stepped down in the nation's history. The 54-year-old official, who was sworn into office less than 10 months ago following a disputed election, revealed his decision to retire from public life via a post on his Instagram account. The announcement, which included a letter addressed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has been confirmed by sources within both the vice-president's office and the presidency, signaling a major shift in the country's executive leadership. Nchimbi’s departure is reportedly set to take effect at the end of next week. In his communication, he cited a desire to respect President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s prerogative to implement changes within her administration. Before ascending to the vice-presidency, Nchimbi was a prominent figure within the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and had held several high-ranking positions in the Tanzanian government. His resignation letter emphasized his commitment to the state, noting that he intends to continue contributing to the nation’s progress as a "good citizen" rather than a public official. The resignation comes amid a period of internal political discourse, during which Nchimbi had made several controversial public statements. Most notably, he had recently advocated for the drafting of a new constitution, explicitly linking constitutional reform to the protection of human rights and the improvement of national governance. These remarks were seen by some analysts as a departure from the standard rhetoric of the executive branch and may have contributed to the administrative "changes" referenced in his resignation. His brief tenure was also colored by the political tensions following the election that brought the current administration to power. As Tanzania prepares for the transition, the focus now shifts to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her upcoming choice for a successor. The resignation of such a high-ranking official so early in the term raises questions about the internal dynamics of the CCM and the direction of the President’s reform agenda. For now, Nchimbi’s exit stands as a landmark event in East African politics, highlighting the evolving nature of political accountability and administrative restructuring in Tanzania.

Trump Administration Overhauls Visa Policies and Consular Training, Impacting Ghanaian Applicants and Asylum Seekers
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Trump Administration Overhauls Visa Policies and Consular Training, Impacting Ghanaian Applicants and Asylum Seekers

The United States government, under the Trump administration, has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its immigration and visa systems, headlined by an aggressive plan to revoke the nonimmigrant visas of up to 200,000 foreign nationals. The initiative specifically targets individuals who entered the U.S. on temporary business (B1) or tourist (B2) permits between 2016 and 2026 and subsequently applied for asylum. While officials at the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security argue that this measure is essential to maintain the integrity of travel documentation and prevent the misuse of the asylum system, the move has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights advocates. Critics warn that the policy could undermine due process and disproportionately harm vulnerable populations who utilized legal pathways to enter the country before seeking protection. Although visa revocation does not lead to immediate deportation for those with pending claims, it forces a significant legal re-categorization that complicates their status in the country. In Ghana, these policy shifts are being felt directly at the U.S. Embassy in Accra, which has joined other global consulates in pausing certain visa appointments. This suspension is intended to facilitate a new training program for consular officers aimed at enhancing their assessment and vetting capabilities. Affected applicants, particularly those seeking immigrant visas, are being notified that their appointments will be rescheduled as the administration prioritizes stricter immigration enforcement measures. These changes are compounded by a proposal to permanently implement a $103,265 fee for new H-1B skilled worker visas, a measure intended to curb program abuses despite ongoing legal challenges from business groups and state governments. Beyond immigration, the administration's assertive stance is reshaping broader international and domestic landscapes. In Africa, Massad Boulos, President Trump’s senior envoy, has called for the United Nations to extend its arms embargo to all of Sudan to address escalating drone strikes and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Domestically, the administration faces legal pushback as the state of Nevada recently sued to block a planned 21% reduction in water supplies from the Colorado River. Collectively, these actions signal a period of intensified executive focus on tightening borders, increasing the financial costs of legal migration, and exerting influence over regional conflicts and natural resource management.

Interior Minister - Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak
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COP Osman Abdul Razak Warns of Rebranded Vigilante Networks as Experts Question Effectiveness of Ghana's Anti-Vigilantism Law

National Security Coordinator COP Osman Abdul Razak has issued a stark warning regarding the evolution of political vigilantism in Ghana, revealing that groups have moved into covert online spaces and rebranded to evade detection. Speaking at a National Policy Dialogue organized by Election Watch Ghana, COP Abdul Razak disclosed that former vigilante groups are now operating under titles such as "internal security teams," "volunteer task forces," and "community security initiatives." These groups are increasingly utilizing encrypted chat platforms and social media for mobilization, a shift that complicates traditional monitoring. To counter this, the National Security Secretariat is proposing an 18-month masterplan ahead of the 2028 general elections, involving intelligence mapping, youth engagement, and proactive operations starting at least a year and a half before polls. While state security agencies focus on future threats, legal and security experts have raised significant concerns about the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999). Security Consultant Richard Kumadoe and former National Security Minister Francis Poku have both criticized the law, with Poku labeling it a "knee-jerk reaction" to the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence. Critics argue that the Act’s stringent evidentiary requirements and harsh mandatory penalties make it difficult to enforce, suggesting that strengthening existing criminal laws would have been more effective. Election Watch Ghana further noted that seven years after the law was conceived, public confidence remains low due to perceived selective application and a lack of visible prosecutions. The political landscape complicates enforcement, according to Colonel Festus Aboagye (Rtd), who claimed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) share a "gentleman’s agreement" to avoid prosecuting each other's members for political violence. Aboagye also criticized the politicization of security services, alleging that parties use recruitment into national security institutions to accommodate loyal "foot soldiers." The NPP has refuted these claims, with Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed asserting that the party has fulfilled its obligations by disbanding associated groups. Mohammed argued that the law itself is sound, and any lack of results stems from the failure of law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties independently of political influence. Providing an update on accountability for past unrest, Interior Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka revealed that while 26 individuals have been prosecuted for violence during the 2020 and 2024 elections, 13 suspects remain at large. This comes as President John Mahama has forwarded a comprehensive report on election violence to the Attorney-General for further action, signaling the administration's commitment to justice. However, figures like Kofi Totobi Quakyi, Ghana’s first National Security Minister in the Fourth Republic, expressed lingering disappointment over the handling of earlier reports, such as the Emile Short Commission of Inquiry, suggesting that past failures to prosecute high-profile assailants have fostered a culture of impunity. As the country looks toward future electoral cycles, the consensus among stakeholders highlights a need for a shift from containment to prevention. COP Abdul Razak emphasized that private security firms acting as political militias face license revocation and prosecution under Act 999. The path forward involves not only rigorous legal enforcement but also addressing the systemic "winner-takes-all" political culture that incentivizes the formation of vigilante groups. Ensuring that the 2028 elections remain peaceful will depend on whether the state can successfully monitor these new, encrypted networks and whether the judiciary can demonstrate neutral, consistent application of the law against all political actors.

Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak - Interior Minister
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Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak Outlines Digital Security Shift and Border Reforms to Enhance National Safety

Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced a significant improvement in national security for 2026, stating that the country is notably safer than in previous years. Speaking during a Government Accountability Series, the Minister highlighted that active curfews across the country have been reduced from eleven to just three, reflecting a successful stabilization effort led by security agencies and supported by international partners like the Japanese Government. This progress is being anchored by a sweeping shift toward digitalization in law enforcement, aimed at reducing human interference and systemic corruption within the security apparatus. Central to this modernization is the launch of 'TraffiTech-GH,' a technology-driven traffic enforcement system set to fully replace routine roadside checks by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) by September 2026. Utilizing a network of surveillance cameras, radar systems, and mobile monitoring devices, the system will automatically detect over 47 traffic violations, including the unauthorized use of sirens. Offenders will receive electronic notifications via SMS, with penalties tracked digitally to ensure revenue collection and accountability. Deputy Minister Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi emphasized that this transition is designed to curb the perceived corrupt practices associated with face-to-face traffic stops while significantly reducing road fatalities. However, the Ministry faces persistent challenges at the nation’s borders, where a recent study by Professor Elijah Yendaw revealed that 58.2% of West African immigrant retailers enter Ghana through unapproved routes. The research cited extortion by officials, lack of travel documentation, and high costs at official points as primary drivers for these illegal crossings. To address this, Minister Mohammed-Mubarak reported that 4,201 foreign nationals have been removed since 2025. He acknowledged that currently only 12 of the 48 monitored border crossings possess biometric systems, prompting the government to procure drones, anti-ballistic cabins, and mobile surveillance technology to tighten oversight while maintaining ECOWAS protocols on free movement. In a move to restore socio-economic normalcy in conflict-prone areas, the Ministry has also eased motorbike restrictions in Bawku, allowing movement between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. while maintaining a 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. This easing follows positive security assessments and ongoing peace dialogues mediated by the National Peace Council. Simultaneously, Ghana has initiated bilateral talks with Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire to establish Local Groups for Cross-Border Cooperation (LGCBCs). These diplomatic efforts aim to foster information sharing and community resilience along the borders, ensuring that the government’s technological security advancements are matched by strong regional partnerships.

Odeneho Kwaku Appiah — NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman
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Paul Afoko, Titus-Glover, and Justin Kodua Lead NPP's Reorganisation Drive as Vetting for National Officers Begins

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially scheduled the vetting for its 2026 National Officers Elections from August 31 to September 3, 2026, marking a critical phase in the party's strategy to reorganize following the 2024 general elections. With 50 aspirants filing for nine national executive positions, the party is witnessing a surge of internal competition as it prepares to challenge President John Mahama's NDC administration in 2028. High-profile figures, including returning veterans and incumbent leaders, have submitted their forms, signaling a robust debate over the party’s future direction and its mission to return flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to the presidency. Among the most notable entries is former Chairman Paul Afoko, who has filed to reclaim his position under the banner "Reunite. Reorganise. Recapture." Afoko emphasized the need to restore confidence at the grassroots and vowed to work closely with Dr. Bawumia if elected. Meanwhile, the incumbent General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, has expressed gratitude for what he describes as a "vote of confidence" from the party’s base as he seeks a second term. In the race for National Organiser, former Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey—widely known as Titus-Glover—has received a significant boost with a unanimous endorsement from all constituency chairmen in the Greater Accra Region, positioning him as a formidable contender for the role. The contest for specialized wings also reflects the party's focus on inclusivity and strategic communication. Hajia Safia, an aspirant for National Women’s Organiser, has pledged to ensure at least 30% female representation in Parliament, specifically targeting the recovery of seats lost in 2024. Awal Mohammed, seeking the National Nasara Organiser post, has vowed to rebuild structures in Zongo communities and improve the tracking of party members on university campuses. On the communication front, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, eyeing the National Communications Director role, has committed to a fact-based campaign for Dr. Bawumia, asserting that the party must command the national narrative in the years leading to the 2028 polls. Beyond personnel, the internal discourse has touched on sensitive national issues and party accountability. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, an aspirant for First National Vice Chairman, recently dismissed claims of an "Islamisation agenda," citing the 2024 election results where Muslim-majority constituencies favored President Mahama over Dr. Bawumia as evidence of Ghana’s religious tolerance. Simultaneously, internal calls for accountability have emerged, with party member Dr. Razak Kojo Opoku urging the NPP to support the extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta from the U.S. to face corruption-related charges. Additionally, Ashanti Regional Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah has called on the media to "sanitise" the airwaves of political insults to ensure a more respectful discourse. The upcoming vetting process will prioritize transparency, with the party leadership stressing that a definitive balloting date will only be set after any potential appeals are resolved to avoid disruptions. As the NPP prepares for this internal transition, the successful candidates will inherit the task of healing internal divisions and mobilizing a national electorate currently under the governance of President Mahama. These internal elections are seen as the first major step in the NPP's 827-day countdown to the next general election.

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako Withdraws from NPP National Chairmanship Race Amid Incarceration and Legal Challenges
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Bernard Antwi-Boasiako Withdraws from NPP National Chairmanship Race Amid Incarceration and Legal Challenges

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has officially withdrawn from the party’s upcoming national chairmanship race. In a statement dated August 24, 2026, Wontumi cited personal circumstances and a desire to protect the party from further burdens as it undergoes a critical rebuilding phase following its defeat in the 2024 general elections. The decision comes at a tumultuous time for the former Ashanti Regional Chairman, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence related to illegal mining charges. Despite his incarceration, Wontumi described the move as a "painful pause" in his political career rather than a permanent exit, expressing firm confidence that he will eventually secure justice through his ongoing legal appeals. In his heartfelt address to supporters, Wontumi emphasized the need for absolute loyalty to the NPP and urged members to rally behind the party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He cautioned against internal divisiveness, specifically asking his followers to refrain from attacking other candidates or creating factions in his name. Wontumi’s withdrawal is framed as an act of self-sacrifice, noting that his personal ambitions should not hinder the party's progress as it prepares for the 2028 electoral cycle. He maintained that his commitment to the NPP remains unshaken, describing the party as his family and his home. The candidacy had already sparked significant legal and procedural debate within the party. Prior to the withdrawal, private legal practitioner Richard Nii Armah argued that Wontumi’s bid was unconstitutional under Article 55, Clause 8 of the 1992 Constitution, which restricts individuals disqualified from holding public office from serving as political party executives. Furthermore, Frederick Opare Ansah, Chairman of the NPP National Executives Elections Committee, noted that while nomination forms had been issued to Wontumi, the committee had yet to receive formal, official notification of his withdrawal. Ansah stressed that the party requires formal communication rather than reliance on social media reports, while clarifying that the issuance of forms did not automatically guarantee eligibility, a matter reserved for the Vetting Committee. With the filing deadline set for August 27, 2026, Wontumi’s exit significantly alters the leadership contest. The race for the National Chairmanship now narrows to four primary contenders: Paul Afoko, John Boadu, Boakye Agyarko, and Sammy Crabbe. As the NPP seeks to navigate its role in opposition under the administration of President John Mahama, the outcome of this executive election will be pivotal in defining the party's strategy and unity ahead of the next national polls.