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.

Parliament passes new fuel tax law to stop smugglers from cheating the system
politics|

Parliament Passes Energy Sector Levies Amendment to Curb $25 Million Fuel Smuggling Loss

The Parliament of Ghana has passed the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2026, a move designed to plug significant revenue leakages in the downstream petroleum sector. Approved on July 31, 2026, the legislation targets an estimated US$25 million (over GH¢1 billion) in annual losses caused by fuel smuggling and the misclassification of petroleum products. Under the administration of President John Mahama, the government introduced the bill to increase the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) and the Road Fund Levy on fuel oil, specifically aiming to narrow the tax gap between diesel and fuel oil that had been exploited by tax evaders. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the amendment, clarifying that it does not represent a new tax for ordinary motorists but is a reform of existing subsidy administration. The legislation transitions the current system to an "ex-post" subsidy model, where industries are required to pay the levies upfront and later apply for refunds. This mechanism is intended to ensure that only legitimate industrial users benefit from subsidies, thereby ending the practice where diesel was mislabeled as fuel oil—which carried a much lower levy of GH¢0.25 compared to diesel’s GH¢3.35 per litre—to avoid higher taxes. However, the Minority in Parliament has raised sharp objections to the levy increase, which sees the charge on fuel oil rise from GH¢0.24 to GH¢1.93 per litre. Dr. Gideon Boako, the Tano North MP and Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, warned that the hike would increase production costs for local businesses and contribute to inflationary pressures. The Minority argued that the government should prioritize stronger enforcement and tracking systems over tax increases. Dr. Boako also questioned the transparency of the administration's fiscal management, citing concerns that previous funds from the Energy Sector Recovery Levy had not been used as intended to settle energy sector debts. The passage of this bill marks a critical attempt by the Mahama administration to modernize tax policy and ensure accountability within the energy sector. While the government maintains that these changes are necessary to address evolving economic challenges and revenue theft, the industrial sector will be watching closely to see how efficiently the new refund process is implemented. Moving forward, the success of the reform will depend on the government's ability to balance revenue mobilization with the need to protect businesses from rising operational costs.

Ghana’s Parliament Adjourns: Anti-LGBTQ Bill Stalled as Minority Criticizes Mahama Administration’s Oversight and Economic Performance
politics|

Ghana’s Parliament Adjourns: Anti-LGBTQ Bill Stalled as Minority Criticizes Mahama Administration’s Oversight and Economic Performance

On July 31, 2026, the Parliament of Ghana adjourned sine die, concluding the second meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament. While the session saw the successful passage of 12 significant pieces of legislation, it was marked by the notable omission of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2026, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ bill. Despite earlier signals from Speaker Alban Bagbin that the House might revisit the bill to address specific sentencing provisions, the motion failed to be adopted before the recess, leaving the controversial legislation in a state of flux as the House rose for the break. Aminst the adjournment, the House successfully passed a suite of laws aimed at economic reform and governance. Key among these was the Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, which guarantees cocoa farmers a 70% share of the Free on Board (FOB) export prices, and the Excise Bill, which abolishes taxes on locally produced fruit juices. Other passed legislations include the Customs Bill, the Tribunals Bill, the National Defence University Ghana Bill, and the Community Service Bill—the latter introducing alternative sentencing options to decongest the nation’s prisons. The session also featured intense debates over the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review presented by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. The closing of the session was punctuated by a scathing address from Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Kwame Afenyo-Markin. The NPP leader characterized the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, led by President John Mahama, as suffering from "executive incompetence" and "majority tyranny." Afenyo-Markin specifically demanded accountability for recent national tragedies, including a military helicopter crash and devastating floods that resulted in 34 deaths, noting that no official has yet taken responsibility for these events. He further criticized the government’s economic management, citing discrepancies in the 2026 Budget and expressing concern over perceived judicial bias and potential threats to free speech. Despite the political friction, the session's end also showcased moments of levity and digital engagement. Members of the Minority Caucus gained significant social media attention through a viral video challenge playfully teasing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, highlighting a rare moment of camaraderie amidst the legislative gridlock. As Parliament enters recess, the nation remains focused on the implementation of the newly passed economic laws and the eventual fate of the Anti-LGBTQ bill. The Minority Leader has pledged that the opposition will continue its rigorous oversight to safeguard Ghana’s democratic integrity during the parliamentary break.

No notice of appeal by Sedina was served on A-G in 2024 - Godfred Dame
politics|

Court of Appeal Acquits Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu Sparking National Legal Debate

The Court of Appeal has sparked a massive political and legal debate in Ghana after acquitting and discharging Sedina Christine Tamakloe-Attionu, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC). In a judgment delivered on July 30, 2025, a three-member panel quashed her previous 10-year prison sentence, which had been handed down in April 2024 following a trial in absentia. Tamakloe-Attionu had been convicted on 78 counts, including stealing, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state amounting to over GH"90 million. However, the appellate court ruled that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt and criticized the trial judge for improperly shifting the burden of proof onto the accused. Legal experts and political observers are divided on the ruling's implications for accountability. Private legal practitioner Gary Nimako and former Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah Yeboah expressed concerns that the judgment might be weak in its reasoning, particularly regarding claims that the original charge sheet was defective. Conversely, Justice Abdulai and Akwatia MP Bernard Bediako defended the decision, arguing that the trial's fairness was compromised because Tamakloe-Attionu was not personally heard during the proceedings. Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni noted that while the acquittal is difficult for the public to accept, it highlights significant flaws in the state's prosecutorial strategy and evidence handling, including inconsistencies regarding funds allegedly returned to MASLOC. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has vehemently condemned the acquittal, labeling it a "travesty of justice" and alleging political interference by the current administration under President John Mahama. Former Attorney-General Godfred Dame likened the situation to the Woyome scandal, claiming that his office was never served with a notice of appeal before he left office and accusing the current government of creating an "unequal" justice system. In response, the NPP has signaled plans for a national demonstration on August 6, 2026, to protest what they describe as a threat to the rule of law. Meanwhile, NDC officials have hailed the ruling as a vindication of a "political prisoner" who they believe was targeted by the previous administration. As the legal battle moves forward, the Attorney-General's office has filed a notice of appeal to the Supreme Court and sought a stay of execution. However, the Court of Appeal recently adjourned the motion for a stay of execution indefinitely after the panel, led by Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko-Essah, failed to reach a consensus. While the criminal conviction has been set aside, legal analysts like Oliver Barker-Vormawor suggest the state could still pursue civil claims to recover the allegedly misappropriated GH"90 million. The case remains a focal point for public discourse on the independence of the judiciary and the effectiveness of Ghana's anti-corruption frameworks.

The front view of the Supreme Court of Ghana
politics|

Supreme Court Reshapes Ghana’s Democracy by Abolishing Delegate System and Affirming Special Prosecutor’s Mandate

The Supreme Court of Ghana has issued two landmark rulings that fundamentally alter the country’s political and legal framework, focusing on the democratization of internal party elections and the structural validity of anti-corruption bodies. In a significant decision, the Court abolished the long-standing delegate-based electoral college system, mandating that all registered political party members in good standing be allowed to vote in presidential and parliamentary primaries. Simultaneously, the Court upheld the constitutionality of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) Act, 2017, while clarifying that the Attorney-General retains the ultimate constitutional power to discontinue criminal proceedings initiated by the office. The shift to a “one member, one vote” system is intended to curb the pervasive influence of monetization and vote-buying in Ghanaian politics. Mary Awelana Addah, Executive Director of Transparency International Ghana, welcomed the ruling as a reflection of political realities, noting that expanding the voter base makes vote-buying less feasible compared to the restricted delegate system. However, the decision has met with mixed reactions from political stakeholders. While Prof. Kingsley Nyarko (NPP) praised the move toward inclusivity, NDC MP Ahmed Ibrahim expressed concern that the ruling might disadvantage minority tribes by diluting their representation. Furthermore, Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP) and Solomon Owusu of the United Party (UP) highlighted the massive financial burden this mass electoral system places on parties, with Nabla arguing that the state must provide funding for these expanded primaries. Regarding the Office of the Special Prosecutor, the Court’s affirmation of its constitutionality was hailed as a victory by anti-corruption advocates like Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who argued the ruling makes it politically difficult for future administrations to dismantle the office. Nevertheless, the confirmation of the Attorney-General’s power to enter a nolle prosequi—the authority to halt any OSP prosecution—has sparked intense debate. Private legal practitioner Justice Abdulai remarked that the OSP's independence remains largely theoretical because its prosecutorial authority is ultimately subordinate to Article 88 of the 1992 Constitution. Others, including Dr. Jonathan Asante-Otchere, dismissed the legal friction between the OSP and the Attorney-General as an unnecessary “ego clash” that hampers collective efforts to protect the public interest. As Ghana navigates these structural changes, the focus turns toward the practical implementation of the Court’s orders. Legal and governance experts suggest that the transition away from the delegate system will require significant amendments to party constitutions and potentially the establishment of a “Democracy Fund” to assist parties with the costs of expanded primaries. While the rulings strengthen the formal structures of accountability and participation, the effectiveness of these reforms will ultimately depend on the willingness of political actors to prioritize transparency over institutional rivalry. These decisions mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, challenging both political parties and anti-corruption agencies to realign their operations with the latest constitutional interpretations.

Dr William Yamoah — NPP Director of Finance and Administration
politics|

NPP Accuses President Mahama of Third-Term Ambitions Amid Rising Legal and Political Tensions

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a series of high-profile challenges against President John Mahama’s administration, accusing the incumbent leader of orchestrating a “veiled third-term agenda.” NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) recently voiced concerns over legal applications to the Supreme Court regarding the interpretation of Article 66 of the 1992 Constitution, suggesting these moves aim to extend the President’s tenure beyond the 2028 elections. While President Mahama has publicly committed to constitutional term limits, the NPP warns that any reinterpretation could trigger significant political instability. Simultaneously, former MP Joseph Cudjoe has questioned the President’s commitment to scrapping ex-gratia payments, noting that a recent government White Paper suggests establishing an Independent Public Emoluments Commission rather than abolishing the payments as previously promised. Amidst these national debates, the NPP is intensifying its internal organization for the 2028 electoral cycle. John Boadu, an aspiring National Chairman, has commenced a nationwide engagement tour starting in the Oti Region to unite party structures and mobilize grassroots support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential ambitions. In the Ashanti Region, chairmanship aspirant Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA) is also actively campaigning to rebuild party structures, facing competition from Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu. Furthermore, the party is looking internationally, with Dr. William Yamoah leading a vetting process for the NPP Germany branch elections scheduled for August 8, 2026, emphasizing the need for issue-based campaigns and party cohesion. The judicial landscape has also become a flashpoint for political friction following the Court of Appeal’s unanimous acquittal of former MASLOC Chief Executive Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu. While legal practitioners like Nana Yaw Osei have urged the public to respect the court's decision on the burden of proof, former Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah criticized the ruling as “legally weak.” In the Wa West District, tensions have escalated into violence following the custodial death of youth leader Tijani Abu in Wechiau. Traditional leaders and MP Peter Lanchene Toobu have demanded an independent probe into allegations of police brutality, as subsequent clashes between civilians and security forces resulted in several injuries from stray bullets, disrupting the peace in the region. On the diplomatic front, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has been managing several sensitive international issues. He recently confirmed that Ohene Kwame Frimpong, the MP for Asante Akim North, is receiving consular assistance in the Netherlands following his detention under a U.S. extradition order. Minister Ablakwa also moved to debunk rumors that Ghana had been removed from South Africa’s visa-free travel list, reassuring the public that the reciprocal agreement remains in effect. Domestically, the government is pushing forward with its agricultural agenda, as Minister for Communication Samuel Nartey George distributed 3,500 bags of fertiliser to farmers in Ningo-Prampram under the Feed Ghana Programme to enhance food security. As the Mahama administration navigates these domestic and diplomatic challenges, broader policy shifts are taking root. The National Biosafety Authority recently released its Fifth National Report, marking Ghana’s transition to an active regulatory body for genetically modified materials, while the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has issued its first licenses for medicinal and industrial cannabis cultivation. However, the International Justice Mission (IJM) and other stakeholders are urging the government to better integrate victim protection into anti-trafficking and anti-galamsey efforts. These developments, coupled with international shifts such as U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plans for Gaza and new immigration fees, continue to shape the complex political environment in which Ghana operates.

Minority Ranking Member Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong Rejects 'Defective' Mining Leases Amid Calls for Stricter Parliamentary Oversight
politics|

Minority Ranking Member Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong Rejects 'Defective' Mining Leases Amid Calls for Stricter Parliamentary Oversight

The Minority in Parliament, led by Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, the Ranking Member on the Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, has formally rejected the ratification of six mining lease agreements, describing them as legally and procedurally defective. Ampratwum-Sarpong accused the Majority and the current administration under President John Mahama of undermining Parliament’s constitutional oversight by pushing through agreements that lack essential documentation. The Minority contends that endorsing these flawed leases would compromise national interests and diminish the legislative body's authority, especially as several companies have reportedly commenced operations prior to official parliamentary approval. Key among the grievances cited by the Minority is a perceived 'shoddy job' by the Minerals Commission in conducting due diligence. Specifically, the Minority highlighted the omission of the statutory 10% free carried interest belonging to the Republic of Ghana in some agreements, as well as unsigned site plans and missing operational details. A significant point of contention involves the Damang Gold Limited lease; the Minority argues that the government should have negotiated for a 30% stake rather than the current 10%, particularly given the strategic importance of the asset. Ampratwum-Sarpong also raised concerns regarding transparency, alleging that Minority objections were omitted from final committee reports. These parliamentary disputes coincide with broader legal reflections on Ghana’s mineral rights regime following the Akonta Mining judgment. Legal experts emphasize that under the Minerals and Mining Act (Act 703), all mineral resources remain vested in the State, and any assignment of rights or operational changes requires strict ministerial approval. There is a growing call for regulatory coherence to ensure that administrative breaches are clearly distinguished from criminal conduct, thereby maintaining legal certainty for investors while robustly protecting the environment and state resources from illegal exploitation. Compounding these regulatory challenges are urgent appeals from the Ghana Extractive Sector Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) regarding the disbursement of mineral royalties. Dr. Emmanuel Steve Asare Manteaw and other stakeholders have urged Parliament to hold state agencies accountable for delays in releasing funds to mining host communities. These delays have reportedly stalled critical local development projects and disrupted planning efforts at the district level. As the debate over the six mining leases continues, the Minority has vowed to maintain rigorous scrutiny over all future extractive agreements to ensure that Ghana’s mineral wealth is managed with the transparency and accountability required by the Constitution.

Speaker Bagbin Leads Parliament to Pass 11 Major Bills Targeting Economic Reform and Social Values
politics|

Speaker Bagbin Leads Parliament to Pass 11 Major Bills Targeting Economic Reform and Social Values

Ghana’s Parliament has concluded the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament, marking a highly productive period that saw the passage of 11 significant bills between May 21 and July 31, 2026. The legislative agenda focused on a broad range of sectors including economic management, criminal justice reform, national security, and social development. These reforms are designed to modernize public administration, strengthen state institutions, and improve revenue mobilization under the current administration of President John Mahama. Speaker Alban Bagbin noted that the session was instrumental in addressing critical gaps in the country’s legal and economic frameworks. A major highlight of the session was a suite of four tax-related bills aimed at boosting revenue and providing economic relief. The Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026, notably exempts the national daily minimum wage from income tax to support low-income earners, while the Excise Bill, 2026, abolished the 20% duty on locally produced fruit juices to stimulate the agro-processing sector. Additionally, Parliament approved the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill to combat tax evasion and subsidy abuses. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson informed the house that mislabeling diesel as fuel oil had cost the state approximately US$25 million in the first half of 2026, and the new amendments aim to prevent annual losses of nearly GH"1 billion. In the realm of justice and security, the Ninth Parliament passed the Community Service Bill, which introduces alternative sentencing to reduce prison congestion and modernize the criminal justice system. National security was also bolstered through the Maritime and Related Offences Bill and the National Defence University Bill, the latter of which establishes a specialized institution for high-level defense education. The Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA) Bill was also passed to create a more robust framework for attracting and regulating foreign and domestic investments, aligning with the government's economic revitalization goals. Social and religious discourse featured prominently during the session, particularly following Speaker Bagbin’s visit to the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu. The Speaker commended the Chief Imam for his role in national unity and announced plans for a 'Sunset Fund' to support the Imam’s education trust. During these engagements, Bagbin addressed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, promising revisions to the current draft to ensure it meets legislative standards before its final passage. While 11 bills were successfully cleared, the Speaker noted that work continues on other critical items, including amendments regarding dual citizenship and the Public Procurement Authority, which remain under consideration for the next meeting.

Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Joyce Larbie, Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu
politics|

Ghana’s Supreme Court Orders ‘One Member, One Vote’ System to Counter Growing Political Monetization

In a landmark ruling delivered on July 29, 2026, Ghana’s Supreme Court has abolished the long-standing delegate-based electoral college system used by political parties for selecting presidential and parliamentary candidates. The 5-2 majority decision mandates a transition to a "one member, one vote" mass electoral system, requiring all political parties to amend their constitutions within one year. This judicial intervention aims to align internal party operations with the 1992 Constitution’s principles of universal suffrage and inclusivity. Proponents, including legal practitioners and governance experts like Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, have hailed the decision as a critical step toward deepening intra-party democracy and ensuring that leadership choices reflect the broader will of the party membership rather than a small group of delegates. However, the ruling has sparked a heated debate regarding its practical implementation and the potential for increased political monetization. Professor Alidu Mahama Seidu, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, and former NPP National Chairman Freddie Blay have raised concerns that expanding the voter base to all card-bearing members could significantly escalate campaign costs. Blay described the "one member, one vote" proposal as impractical, citing the immense logistical challenges and the risk of infiltration by rival political parties during internal primaries. Critics warn that while the ruling intends to empower the grassroots, it may inadvertently intensify the financial burden on candidates, potentially fostering more sophisticated forms of corruption as aspirants seek to reach a much larger electorate. The urgency of these reforms was underscored during a recent public dialogue in Ho titled "Democracy Is Not For Sale," where stakeholders lamented the pervasive influence of money in Ghanaian politics. Mama Atrato II, the Queen Mother of Ho-Dome, shared a startling account of alleged vote buying during the Volta Region’s Council of State elections, claiming delegates accepted GH¢5,000 each. She further alleged that such practices prevented prominent figures like Togbe Afede XIV from seeking a second term as President of the National House of Chiefs. Participants at the forum, including Rosemond Atutonu of Global Action for Women Empowerment, noted that these financial pressures effectively shut women out of political leadership, as they often lack the resources to compete in an environment where support is increasingly transactional. To combat this systemic issue, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has proposed the establishment of a "Democracy Fund" to provide transparent financing for political parties, reducing their reliance on wealthy individuals. NCCE Programme Director Imurana Mohammed emphasized that for democracy to endure, it must deliver tangible socio-economic development, as poverty remains a primary driver of voter vulnerability to inducements. Complementing this, law enforcement officials like ACP Brown Mercy Wilson have warned that distributing "gifts" during election seasons constitutes a "crime scene" that undermines the democratic process. Moving forward, experts agree that while the Supreme Court’s ruling provides the legal framework for reform, true change will require a combination of stricter law enforcement, sustainable party financing, and a cultural shift driven by practical civic education.

President Mahama heads to Jamaica for four-day official visit
politics|

President Mahama Enhances Diplomatic Ties with Gabon State Visit and Upcoming Mission to Jamaica

President John Dramani Mahama has significantly intensified Ghana’s diplomatic outreach, concluding a high-profile three-day state visit by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema while preparing for an official mission to Jamaica. These diplomatic maneuvers underscore the administration’s commitment to strengthening both regional African ties and historical bonds with the Caribbean diaspora. The visit by the Gabonese leader resulted in critical bilateral agreements, including Memoranda of Understanding on Political Consultations and Cooperation in Diplomatic Training, highlighting a shared vision for continental stability through the African Union’s Agenda 2063. During his stay in Accra, President Nguema was hosted at a state dinner at the Jubilee House by President Mahama and Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. A poignant highlight of the visit was a wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings. Attended by the Rawlings family and National Security Advisor Prosper Bani, the ceremony served as a tribute to the late leader’s influence on Gabon’s own political transition. President Nguema praised Rawlings as a patriot whose legacy of justice and sovereignty continues to inspire African development, reinforcing the enduring friendship between the two nations. Following the conclusion of the Gabonese visit, President Mahama is scheduled to embark on a four-day official visit to Kingston, Jamaica, from August 2 to August 5, 2026. This mission aims to revitalize Ghana’s relations with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and follows recent disaster relief aid provided by Ghana to Jamaica. The itinerary features high-level engagements, including a Reparations Dialogue at the University of the West Indies with Sir Hilary Beckles, an address to the Jamaican Parliament, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the shrine of Pan-African icon Marcus Garvey. The visit will also include trade discussions and participation in Jamaica’s independence celebrations. These back-to-back diplomatic engagements position Ghana as a pivotal bridge between the African continent and its global diaspora. By hosting regional leaders like Nguema and engaging in reparations dialogues in the Caribbean, the Mahama administration is actively pursuing a "Global Africa" agenda that balances trade, cultural exchange, and historical justice. The reciprocal visit invitation extended by President Nguema and accepted by President Mahama further signals a proactive foreign policy aimed at fostering sustainable partnerships across the South-South axis.

road tolls
politics|

Parliament Approves 20-Year Electronic Tolling Agreement as Government Moves to Address Infrastructure Funding and Housing Deficits

The Parliament of Ghana has sanctioned a landmark 20-year concession agreement with Rock Africa Limited to reintroduce road and bridge tolls across the nation through an advanced electronic system. This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) marks a significant policy shift, reversing the 2021 suspension of manual tolling that had impacted the country's road maintenance capacity. Under the approved framework, the government will receive 70% of the gross toll revenues, while Rock Africa Limited will retain 30% to manage operational costs. The initiative is designed to create a sustainable and transparent revenue stream for the Road Trust Maintenance Fund without placing an undue burden on the national treasury. The new tolling network will feature barrier-free, multi-lane free-flow technology intended to eliminate the long queues and congestion previously associated with manual booths. The project will cover 13 major transport corridors, involving the retrofitting of 38 existing toll locations and the establishment of 28 new ones. Payments will be fully digitized, linked to mobile wallets, bank accounts, and the Ghana Card. During parliamentary deliberations, officials including Dominic Nitiwul highlighted the efficiency of the electronic model, comparing it to successful systems in other jurisdictions. The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, assured the public that the tolls will be applied only to high-quality roads, with specific tariff structures and roll-out schedules to be announced shortly. Parallel to these infrastructure developments, the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has entered into a strategic partnership with the National Homeownership Fund (NHF) and Shelter Afrique Development Bank. This agreement initiates the "Ghana VIRAL Model Assessment," a comprehensive diagnosis of the national housing ecosystem. The assessment focuses on five pillars—vision, institutions, regulations, actors, and local initiatives—to identify policy gaps and improve sector coordination. This diagnostic tool is expected to provide the evidence-based roadmap necessary to address Ghana's housing deficit and will inform discussions at the upcoming National Conference on Housing Finance. While advancing these projects, the government has also moved to protect the integrity of its infrastructure agenda. Minister Agbodza issued a stern warning against fraudulent individuals claiming to sell government road contracts under the "Big Push" infrastructure programme. He emphasized that all contracts are awarded through legal procurement processes and are not for sale, urging Ghanaians to report scammers to the police. As these multi-sectoral initiatives take shape, the administration under President John Mahama continues to focus on integrating digital technology and strategic partnerships to drive national development and economic stability.

cocoa
politics|

President Mahama's Industrial Agenda Advances with Landmark Cocoa Sector Reforms and $700 Million VALCO Revival Plan

The administration of President John Mahama has marked a significant week in economic and industrial policy as Parliament passed the transformative Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Bill, 2026, while the government moved to secure the future of the state-owned Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO). These dual developments signal a robust push toward local value addition and the stabilization of key national assets. The new COCOBOD legislation, which replaces the outdated 1984 Act, aims to modernize the cocoa industry by enshrining a legal guarantee that farmers receive at least 70% of the Free-on-Board (FOB) export price, shielding smallholders from price volatility and ensuring more equitable returns for their labor. The COCOBOD Bill, 2026, introduces a series of high-impact reforms designed to boost domestic industrialization and fiscal discipline. Key provisions include a mandate that 50% of all cocoa produced in Ghana must be reserved for local processing, a move intended to stimulate the domestic manufacturing sector. Additionally, the bill addresses long-standing financing hurdles by establishing a new model to source funding locally, moving away from the difficulties associated with international syndicated loans. While the legislation received bipartisan support, the Minority expressed reservations regarding the governance structure of the board, advocating for greater independence from external political influences. The bill also establishes a Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme and a specialized cocoa tribunal to prosecute sector infractions and smuggling. Simultaneously, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has acted to quell unrest at VALCO following worker demonstrations over rumored privatization. During a visit to the smelter, Minister Buah reassured employees that the government has no intention of selling the facility to private interests or individuals, specifically dismissing rumors regarding a sale to Ibrahim Mahama. Instead, the Cabinet has approved a strategy to identify a strategic investor to inject an estimated $700 million required for the plant's modernization. This investment is critical to resolving over $250 million in accumulated power debts and upgrading the facility from its current operation of 90 cells to its full capacity of 500 cells, which could potentially expand the workforce from 800 to 5,000 employees. To ensure transparency throughout the revitalization of VALCO, the government has committed to including a worker representative on the investor selection committee. The CEO of VALCO, Dr. Robert Makila Sambian, has joined the Minister in urging staff to support these reforms, emphasizing that cooperation is essential for the company’s long-term sustainability. As the COCOBOD Bill moves to President Mahama for his executive assent, the government’s focus shifts to the implementation of these regulatory guidelines and the formal search for a strategic partner for VALCO. These initiatives reflect a broader national strategy to leverage Ghana's natural resources for industrial expansion and improved social welfare for the rural workforce.

President Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Attend Enskinment of Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari as Regent of Dagbon
politics|

President Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Attend Enskinment of Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari as Regent of Dagbon

On July 31, 2026, the Dagbon Traditional Area marked a pivotal moment in its history with the official enskinment of Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari as its Regent. The ceremony, held at the historic Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, follows the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II, on July 11, 2026. The outdooring of the new Regent signifies a critical step in the kingdom’s succession process, as he is now tasked with overseeing the affairs of Dagbon until the final funeral rites of the late Ya-Na are performed and a new Overlord is selected. The event was characterized by traditional drumming and sacred rituals, drawing thousands of mourners and well-wishers to the traditional capital. President John Dramani Mahama, attending the ceremony alongside senior government officials, urged the new Regent to prioritize the preservation of peace and unity within the kingdom. Commending the people of Dagbon for their resilience and maturity during this transition, the President charged Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari to sustain the development legacy left by his father. President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with the Dagbon Traditional Council on various infrastructure projects, including the ongoing construction of the Gbewaa Palace, emphasizing that stability in the region is paramount for national progress. In his inaugural address, the newly installed Regent, Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari, pledged to uphold the traditional customs and the rotational chieftaincy succession system that underpins Dagbon’s heritage. He vowed not to destroy the legacy of peace and reconciliation established during his late father's reign, appealing to all stakeholders and community leaders to support him during this interim period. The Regent’s speech highlighted a commitment to maintaining the relationships and developmental initiatives initiated by the late Ya-Na, promising to foster an environment of harmony as the kingdom prepares for its next chapter. The ceremony also saw the presence of former Vice President and 2028 NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who paid a glowing tribute to the late Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II. Dr. Bawumia described the late Overlord as a unifying leader whose commitment to peace transformed the region, sharing personal anecdotes of their relationship to illustrate the late leader’s wisdom and humor. The bipartisan attendance of Ghana's top political leadership underscored the national importance of Dagbon’s stability and the collective desire to see a smooth transition of power within one of the country's most prominent traditional states. To ensure the safety of the proceedings, security was significantly heightened in Yendi, with over 600 personnel deployed to the area. The successful enskinment of the Regent now sets the stage for the traditional calendar of events that will eventually lead to the installation of a substantive Ya-Na. As the Regent begins his temporary tenure, the focus of the Dagbon Traditional Council shifts toward the organization of the late Overlord’s final funeral rites, a process that will require continued collaboration between traditional authorities and the central government to maintain the peace that has come to define the kingdom in recent years.