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 heads to Jamaica for four-day official visit
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President Mahama Bolsters Diplomatic Ties with Gabon and Jamaica as Parliament Honors National Icons

President John Dramani Mahama has moved to significantly strengthen Ghana’s international standing through a series of high-profile diplomatic engagements, including hosting Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and announcing an upcoming state visit to Jamaica. During President Nguema’s three-day official visit to Accra, the two leaders signed crucial Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focusing on political consultations and the training of diplomats. At a state dinner held at the Jubilee House, President Mahama praised the deepening cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing that shared goals in infrastructure development and resource management would drive mutual prosperity and regional stability. The visit by the Gabonese leader also carried a strong symbolic weight as President Nguema paid homage to Ghana’s political history. He laid a wreath at the graveside of the late President Jerry John Rawlings, describing him as an icon of African patriotism whose legacy continues to inspire governance across the continent. This sentiment was echoed in broader bilateral talks that touched on agriculture, security, and climate action. President Mahama has since accepted a reciprocal invitation to visit Gabon, signaling a new era of strategic partnership aimed at fostering cultural ties and trade between the two African nations. Transitioning from continental to diasporic relations, President Mahama is scheduled to undertake a four-day official visit to Kingston, Jamaica, in early August. This mission is designed to revitalize Ghana’s historical ties with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and follows Ghana's recent support for Jamaica after a significant natural disaster. A centerpiece of the trip will be the President’s participation in a high-level Reparations Dialogue at the University of the West Indies, where he will advocate for global support regarding the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. The itinerary includes an address to the Jamaican Houses of Parliament, bilateral talks with Prime Minister Andrew Holness, and attendance at Jamaica’s 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations. On the domestic front, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin recently visited the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu, to commend his role in maintaining national unity. During the meeting, the Speaker announced plans to support the ‘Sunset Fund,’ an education trust fund, and addressed the ongoing legislative process regarding the LGBTQ bill, indicating that Parliament intends to revise the bill in accordance with the Chief Imam’s advice. Simultaneously, the Ghanaian political landscape saw tributes to former President John Evans Atta Mills, with MP Hajia Zuweira Mohammed Ibrahimah hailing his selfless leadership, while legal expert Nana Ato Dadzie addressed public discourse by affirming that the constitution strictly limits the presidency to two terms, dismissing recent debates regarding future eligibility.

Supreme Court strikes down electoral college system political parties use in selecting parliamentary, presidential candidates
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Supreme Court Mandates "One Member, One Vote" in Landmark Ruling Abolishing Party Delegate System

In a landmark decision that fundamentally alters Ghana's political landscape, the Supreme Court has declared the delegate-based electoral college system used by political parties unconstitutional. By a 5-2 majority, the court ruled that every registered party member in good standing must be allowed to vote in presidential and parliamentary primaries, citing Article 55(5) of the 1992 Constitution. This directive effectively ends the long-standing practice where a small pool of delegates selected national candidates, and the court has given political parties a one-year deadline to amend their constitutions and implement a direct mass electoral system. The government of President John Mahama has formally endorsed the ruling. Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine announced that the decision aligns with recommendations from the Constitutional Review Committee to ensure equal voting rights within parties. To facilitate these reforms, the government plans to establish an independent Political Parties Regulatory Commission. This new body is expected to take over the registration and regulatory functions currently held by the Electoral Commission, while also introducing legislation to manage campaign financing and transparency through a proposed Democracy Fund. Reaction from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been mixed. While Rashid Tanko Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of IT and Elections, expressed confidence that the party's robust membership database makes the transition feasible within the one-year timeframe, other officials were more cautious. Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande and Nii Lantey Vanderpuye warned of the immense financial and logistical burdens associated with nationwide primaries. Gbande noted that while the move promotes democracy, the costs of mobilizing millions of voters could be prohibitive, potentially leading to "excess democracy" that strains party resources. Governance experts and academics have also weighed in on the ruling's potential impact. Dr. Kojo Asante of CDD-Ghana praised the decision as a victory for internal party democracy that could reduce the corruption inherent in influencing small delegate pools. However, Professor Alidu Mahama Seidu and Professor Isaac Owusu-Mensah cautioned that the new system could triple campaign costs, as candidates must now reach a significantly larger voter base. Additionally, Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim raised concerns that a purely population-based voting system might marginalize minority ethnic groups in Parliament by favoring candidates from larger communities. As political parties begin the complex task of restructuring their internal processes, the ruling sets the stage for a significant shift in how power is exercised within Ghana’s democratic framework. While the decision aims to empower the grassroots, the debate over financing remains contentious. The NDC has already rejected the idea of state funding for political parties, arguing that public resources should remain focused on healthcare and education. With the one-year implementation clock ticking, the Electoral Commission is now mandated to ensure that all future internal elections comply with this new standard of universal suffrage.

Government accepts fixed November date for Presidential Elections, 30-Day Supreme Court timeline for petitions
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Attorney General Dominic Ayine Announces Sweeping Constitutional Reforms Including Five-Year Terms and Elected Local Executives

Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine has formally presented the government’s White Paper on the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) recommendations, signaling a transformative era for Ghana’s governance. Announced on July 30, 2026, the proposed reforms include extending presidential and parliamentary terms from four to five years and capping ministerial appointments at 60 to prevent executive overreach. To ensure smoother transitions and more effective policy assessment, the government has also accepted a fixed election date in the first week of November. A national referendum is slated for 2027 to approve entrenched provisions, with the necessary amendment bills expected to be finalized by October 2026. In a historic shift toward executive accountability, the government has accepted recommendations that President John Mahama pay taxes on his salary and allowances while in office, though retirement benefits and pensions will remain exempt. To broaden the democratic space, the eligibility age for presidential candidates is set to be lowered from 40 to 35 years. Furthermore, the size of Parliament will be capped at 300 members, utilizing a hybrid system where 276 members are elected through traditional constituencies and 24 seats are reserved for proportional representation to ensure the inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu clarified that the proposed five-year term extension will only apply to future administrations and not to President Mahama’s current tenure. Judicial and electoral reforms form a core component of the new proposals, aiming to enhance the efficiency of the legal system and the stability of the state. The Supreme Court will be capped at 19 justices, and the Chief Justice will now serve a single, non-renewable 10-year term to ensure predictable leadership transitions. To mitigate the tension following general elections, the government has mandated that presidential election petitions must be filed within 14 days of the results and resolved by the Supreme Court within a strict 30-day window. Additionally, the government has moved to allow dual citizens to hold various public offices, including seats in Parliament, though they remain barred from the positions of President and Vice President. The reforms also address long-standing human rights and decentralization concerns. Ghana is set to formally abolish the death penalty, replacing it with life imprisonment for serious crimes, a move Dr. Ayine described as a commitment to international human rights standards. At the local level, the government has approved the direct election of all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), moving away from the presidential appointment system to enhance local accountability. To further empower the public, a 'citizen-initiative' mechanism will be introduced, allowing Ghanaians to propose constitutional amendments directly if they secure the support of 10% of registered voters. While the government views these changes as essential for stability, some critics argue that the term extension might reduce the frequency of leader accountability to the electorate.

Court of Appeal acquits former MASLOC boss Sedina Tamakloe Attionu
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Attorney-General Appeals to Supreme Court After Court of Appeal Acquits Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu

On July 30, 2026, the Court of Appeal unanimously overturned the conviction and 10-year prison sentence of Sedina Christine Tamakloe-Attionu, the former CEO of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC). The three-member panel ruled that the prosecution failed to prove charges of stealing, money laundering, and causing a financial loss of over GH¢93 million beyond a reasonable doubt. Tamakloe-Attionu, who was extradited from the United States in June 2026 to begin serving her sentence following a 2024 conviction in absentia, was acquitted on all 78 counts. The appellate court criticized the original trial for improperly shifting the burden of proof onto the accused and failing to uphold the presumption of innocence, noting significant defects in the charge sheet regarding the vagueness of the financial loss allegations. The ruling has triggered a fierce political storm and widespread public outrage. The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) condemned the acquittal as a "travesty of justice" and evidence of a "politicized justice system" under the current John Mahama administration. NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong and National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye characterized the judicial reversal as a setback for accountability, suggesting the outcome was a "choreographed" effort to shield government-affiliated individuals. Conversely, government representatives, including Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, maintained that the judiciary acted independently, noting that the same legal system that initially convicted her had now found the evidence insufficient upon review. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has since instructed the Director of Public Prosecutions to file an immediate appeal at the Supreme Court. The Attorney-General's office also filed an urgent application for a stay of execution to prevent Tamakloe-Attionu's release from the Nsawam Medium Security Prison pending the outcome of the Supreme Court's determination. Dr. Ayine clarified that although the appeal was initiated before he took office in January 2025, his office had actively opposed it and remains confident that the original conviction was based on compelling evidence. Former Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah also expressed surprise at the acquittal, arguing that the evidence presented during the initial trial was robust and that technical defects should have resulted in a retrial rather than a total discharge. The case has intensified concerns regarding a perceived "two-tiered" justice system in Ghana, where political elites appear to evade accountability while ordinary citizens face harsh penalties for minor crimes. Civil society leaders, including IMANI Africa President Franklin Cudjoe, described the ruling as a major blow to the nation's anti-corruption efforts and the "Operation Recover All Loot" (ORAL) initiative. As the legal battle moves to the Supreme Court, the outcome is expected to have significant implications for public trust in the judiciary and the government's credibility in tackling high-profile financial misconduct amidst ongoing socio-economic challenges.

Odeneho Kwaku Appiah — Aspiring Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman
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Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson Proposes 70% Export Value Guarantee for Cocoa Farmers Amid Legislative and Social Reform Debates

In a significant move to stabilize Ghana’s agricultural backbone, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced a comprehensive overhaul of the cocoa sector governance framework during the 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review. The proposed legislation aims to guarantee farmers at least 70% of the gross Free-on-Board (FOB) price, utilizing market-based pricing mechanisms to enhance rural incomes and ensure the industry's long-term sustainability. This announcement comes as the administration of President John Mahama receives mixed praise for concluding the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program. Former Sekondi MP Andrew Egyapa Mercer noted that while the current administration successfully navigated the final phase, the groundwork was significantly shaped by the reforms of the previous Akufo-Addo administration. Simultaneously, a group of five Members of Parliament has reintroduced the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill, seeking to criminalize allegations and protect vulnerable citizens after the bill previously failed to receive presidential assent from the former president. While policy reforms advance in Parliament, the government is facing immediate social and logistical hurdles. Transport unions, including the GPRTU, have temporarily suspended a planned 30% fare hike following intensive negotiations with the Ministry of Transport. However, union leaders remain cautious, citing volatile petroleum prices as a potential trigger for future adjustments. Social tensions further escalated at the Techiman Krobo Nursing Training College, where the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has demanded a thorough investigation into alleged police brutality during a student protest over poor welfare conditions. On the international front, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the government is providing consular assistance to Asante Akyem North MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong, who remains in Dutch custody under a U.S. extradition warrant, asserting that due process is being closely monitored. Beyond immediate crises, experts and political veterans are calling for more structural, long-term thinking in governance. Dr. John Kingsley Krugu, former CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority, warned that the Environmental Protection Act of 2025 (Act 1124) risks becoming a "law on paper" without dedicated funding and the establishment of the National Environment Fund. His concerns were echoed by Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, who urged the Mahama administration to move away from "politically branded" short-term programs in favor of sustained national development plans to address housing and food security. Infrastructure challenges also persist in the South Tongu district, where MP Maxwell Kwame Lukutor is urgently seeking €12 million to complete the stalled Agordomi Water Project, highlighting a €63 million debt owed to contractors that continues to delay clean water access for 300,000 residents. In the political arena, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) is already witnessing internal and external maneuvering ahead of future cycles. Aspiring Ashanti Regional Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA) has launched a critique of the Mahama government, alleging that flagship policies like the "24-hour economy" have failed to translate into job creation and have instead led to higher utility costs. Meanwhile, the Base Movement Ghana has officially endorsed former presidential hopeful Kennedy Agyapong for the 2028 elections, establishing new committees and digital platforms to mobilize grassroots support outside traditional party structures. As the government attempts to balance these political critiques with economic reforms and social demands, the coming months will be pivotal for the implementation of the ambitious cocoa and environmental policies currently on the table.

Nigerian Army Arrested Nigerian Army Private Mohammed Yusuf wearing a T shirt with 69 written on it
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Ghana Bolsters Defense with $4m US Military Aid Amid Rising Sahel Terrorism and Global Geopolitical Friction

Ghana’s security apparatus has received a significant boost with a $4 million donation of military equipment from the United States, aimed at enhancing the Ghana Armed Forces' (GAF) surveillance and maritime capabilities. This support, comprising protective gear and radar systems, arrives at a critical juncture as Major General Timothy Ba-Taa-Banah, Director of the National Counter Terrorism Fusion Centre, reports a 14% surge in terrorism-related deaths across the Sahel. With over 8,000 fatalities recorded this year from more than 2,000 attacks, the regional threat is evolving, prompting Ghanaian officials to urge community vigilance through the "See Something, Say Something" campaign to prevent the exploitation of internal conflicts by extremist groups. The security landscape in West Africa is further complicated by internal vulnerabilities, as evidenced by the recent arrest of a Nigerian soldier, Private Mohammed Yusuf, for allegedly supplying military uniforms to criminal and terrorist organizations. This incident highlights persistent concerns regarding collusion between security personnel and armed groups in the sub-region. Simultaneously, the International Criminal Court (ICC) faces a challenge to its continental influence as Chad joins a growing list of nations withdrawing from the tribunal. The military government in Chad initiated the withdrawal process this week, signaling a shift in how regional powers engage with international judicial institutions. On the global stage, trade and technology remain flashpoints for diplomatic tension. U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to launch an investigation into the European Union following a ‘890 million fine imposed on Google, threatening fresh tariffs in retaliation for what he describes as the "unfair" treatment of American tech giants including Apple, Meta, and Amazon. While trade tensions simmer, Trump indicated a temporary lull in military strikes against Iran, describing ongoing discussions as "friendly negotiations." However, Tehran has officially denied the existence of direct talks, underscoring the precarious nature of the current ceasefire. Corporate accountability and professional integrity are also under scrutiny, particularly concerning the influence of digital platforms and foreign interests. In Nashville, Tennessee, Meta Platforms is facing a landmark trial where state attorneys argue the company knowingly ignored internal research on Instagram's harmful effects on teenagers to prioritize profit. In Europe, the intersection of sports and politics has seen Italian football legend Andrea Pirlo withdraw from consideration for the national team coaching job following a backlash over his commercial ties to a Russian betting firm. These diverse developments reflect a global environment where security, ethics, and national interests are increasingly intertwined.

Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin (middle), Speaker of Parliament, with Justice William Atuguba (2nd from right), Chairman, National Integrity Awards Committee; Marietta Brew (right), Chairperson, Governing Council of the University of Ghana; Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror (left), Clerk to Parliament, and some dignitaries after the launch of the National Integrity Awards Scheme. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Outlines Constitutional Reforms as Ghana Celebrates Supreme Court’s 150th Anniversary

The Ghanaian government, led by Vice President Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has signaled a significant push for constitutional and judicial reforms during the landmark 150th-anniversary celebration of the Supreme Court in Accra. Speaking on behalf of President John Mahama’s administration, the Vice President announced that the government will soon issue a position paper addressing the Constitutional Review Committee’s recommendations. These proposals, submitted following the committee's report in late 2025, include high-stakes changes such as extending the presidential term from four to five years and establishing an independent Emoluments Commission. This move underscores the administration's commitment to enhancing the 1992 Constitution to better serve democratic accountability and public confidence. The anniversary served as a platform for critical dialogue regarding the independence and accessibility of the judiciary. Togbe Afede XIV, President of the Asogli Traditional Area, raised concerns about the unrestricted expansion of the Supreme Court, warning that a lack of constitutional limits on the number of judges could expose the bench to political manipulation. Furthermore, he highlighted that high legal costs remain a formidable barrier to justice for many Ghanaians, urging legal professionals to balance profit motives with their duty to the public. In a complementary address, Attorney General Dominic Ayine called for a "fraternal" partnership between his department and the judiciary, emphasizing that the Attorney General’s Chambers should be viewed as collaborators in justice rather than adversaries to reinforce the shared commitment to the rule of law. Beyond the anniversary, Parliament’s legislative role has intensified with the passage of the Tribunals Bill, 2026, on July 17. Policy analyst Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg has urged the government to ensure that this new tribunal system—designed to reduce case delays and tackle corruption—strictly adheres to the 1992 Constitution to maintain public trust. He noted that judicial independence and due process are paramount for the success of these tribunals in addressing public interest crimes. Simultaneously, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has introduced the National Integrity Awards Scheme to celebrate ethical leadership. Chaired by retired Justice William A. Atuguba, the initiative includes a "Vulture Award" to spotlight conduct that undermines public morals, reflecting a broader national effort to institutionalize integrity within Ghana’s governance structures. To honor the judiciary’s historic milestone, Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie directed a temporary suspension of court sittings in the Greater Accra Region to allow full participation in the celebrations held at the UPSA Ohene Konadu Auditorium and the Accra Ridge Church. These events and policy announcements collectively signal a transformative period for Ghana’s political and legal landscape under the Mahama administration. As the government finalizes its response to the constitutional review and the new tribunal system moves toward implementation, the focus remains on balancing institutional independence with the urgent need for efficiency, accessibility, and integrity in the administration of justice.

Archbishop of Canterbury pays courtesy call on President Mahama during first visit to Africa
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President Mahama Strengthens International Partnerships as Gabonese President and Archbishop of Canterbury Visit Ghana

President John Dramani Mahama has hosted a series of high-profile international visitors at the Jubilee House, signaling a robust expansion of Ghana’s diplomatic and economic reach. Key among these engagements was a three-day state visit by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and a historic courtesy call by the Most Reverend Sarah Mullally, the first female Archbishop of Canterbury. These high-level meetings, occurring alongside strategic dialogues with representatives from China, India, and Nigeria, underscore the Mahama administration's focus on regional integration, defense cooperation, and heritage-led development. During President Nguema’s visit, Ghana and Gabon entered a new phase of strategic cooperation by signing two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) focused on Political Consultations and the training of diplomats. President Mahama and his Gabonese counterpart discussed enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and energy cooperation while addressing shared regional security challenges. As part of his itinerary, President Nguema paid homage to Ghana’s founding father at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and participated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at the Jubilee House to mark the enduring friendship between the two nations. The visit of Archbishop Sarah Mullally marked her first trip to Africa and provided a platform to discuss the Anglican Church’s significant contributions to Ghana’s healthcare and education sectors. President Mahama commended the Archbishop on her historic appointment and her commitment to social justice. A central point of the discussion was the commencement of a "Heritage Anglican Culture Village" project and the construction of a pilgrim hostel, initiatives aimed at cultural rediscovery and healing related to the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Simultaneously, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has been active in refining ties with major global partners. Discussions with the newly appointed Nigerian High Commissioner, Shehu Ilu Barde, focused on resolving business disputes involving Jonah Capital and advancing the ECOWAS single currency, the ECO. Similarly, a meeting with Indian High Commissioner-designate Surinder Bhagat highlighted future collaborations in AI, robotics, and pharmaceuticals. On the defense front, China reaffirmed its support for the modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces during the 99th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), announcing the upcoming visit of the naval hospital ship, Peace Ark, to provide medical assistance. These multifaceted diplomatic efforts reflect the Mahama administration’s strategy of leveraging international partnerships to drive sustainable development and national transformation. By balancing traditional religious ties with modern economic and military cooperation, Ghana continues to position itself as a central hub for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and a leader in Pan-African diplomacy. The government maintains that these partnerships are foundational to job creation and economic stability for Ghana’s growing population.

Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Destools Longest-Serving Paramount Chief Over Customary Violations
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Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Destools Longest-Serving Paramount Chief Over Customary Violations

In a landmark decision during an Asanteman Traditional Council meeting on July 27, 2026, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, destooled Nana Kwabena Nsia Ababio, the Paramount Chief of Kenyase No. 2. The removal of Nana Ababio is particularly significant as he was recognized as the longest-reigning Paramount Chief in Asanteman, having served for approximately 89 years since his enstoolment in 1937. The Asantehene cited repeated violations of Asante customs, traditions, and a breach of the oath of office as the primary reasons for this drastic measure, emphasizing that no leader is above the sacred laws of the kingdom. The proceedings were marked by the Asantehene’s visible frustration over the chief's persistent refusal to heed advice or follow established traditional protocols. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reportedly described the chief's conduct as unforgivable, noting that a lack of wisdom and a disregard for counsel had led to the breakdown of order within the Kenyase No. 2 traditional area. The sanctions extended beyond the Paramount Chief himself, as almost all of his kingmakers were also destooled for their failure to provide proper guidance or for participating in the customary breaches. In contrast, the Kontihene was spared from sanction, and the Asantehene utilized the council meeting to reinstate several previously destooled Akyeame (linguists) and other traditional officials. This high-profile destoolment serves as a powerful assertion of the Asantehene’s role in upholding the integrity and accountability of the traditional leadership system. By removing a figure of such historical longevity, the King has signaled a zero-tolerance policy toward the erosion of Asante cultural values and the misuse of traditional authority. Moving forward, the Kenyase No. 2 community faces a period of transition as new leadership must be identified to restore the stool’s reputation, while the broader traditional landscape reflects on this significant enforcement of customary law.

Wontumi jailed
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Chairman Wontumi Appeals for Clemency Amid Incarceration as Attorney General Advances 30 'ORAL' Corruption Cases

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the incarcerated Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a formal apology to President John Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama. Currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for illegal mining activities in the Samreboi Forest, Wontumi’s spokesperson, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, stated that the apology regarding disparaging remarks made during the 2024 campaign is a gesture of reconciliation and a step toward seeking presidential clemency. While the defense emphasizes that the apology is not an admission of political influence regarding his conviction, the Ashanti Regional Constituency Chairmen’s Caucus has announced a night vigil on August 14, 2026, to show solidarity with their embattled leader. Simultaneously, Wontumi faces a separate legal battle involving an alleged GH"30 million fraud case related to the Ghana Export-Import (EXIM) Bank. The High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice Halima El-Alawa Abdul Baasit, recently granted a 30-day extension for plea bargain negotiations after the defense team, now led by Samuel Atta Akyea, requested more time to finalize an agreement. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai noted that while negotiations were advanced, they had been complicated by Wontumi’s current status as a convict. The court has adjourned the matter to August 27, 2026, allowing both parties to resolve the charges before the trial resumes. These developments coincide with a broader anti-corruption drive by the Attorney General’s Office under the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative. Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai announced that approximately 30 cases have been identified for prosecution, with several already at advanced stages in the courts. Among the high-profile dockets being prioritized are the SkyTrain project and the ongoing trial of Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB). The state intends to file several new cases before the start of the next legal year in October, focusing strictly on prosecutable evidence. In the ongoing NSB trial, a key prosecution witness from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Frank Marshall Cromwell, testified that GH"49.1 million allegedly stolen by Adu-Boahene and his accomplices was transferred from a legitimate public account. Despite extensive cross-examination by defense counsel Samuel Atta Akyea, who questioned the classification of the account, the witness maintained that investigations confirmed the funds were state-owned. The judge has urged the defense to expedite their proceedings, noting that the trial's complexity has already led to lengthy testimonies. Beyond these high-level political trials, Ghana’s legal system is addressing various other regulatory and criminal matters. The Minerals Commission has ordered a cessation of all mining operations at a disputed concession in Gbane following violent clashes between Earl International Group and Nanlamtaaba Enterprise. Meanwhile, the Accra Circuit Court recently remanded a pastor, Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng, for an alleged US$60,000 romance fraud scheme. Together, these cases reflect an intensified period of judicial activity as the state seeks to enforce mining regulations and recover public assets through the ORAL initiative.

Ken Kuranchie Challenges Presidential Term Limits in Supreme Court Amid Debates Over President Mahama’s Future Eligibility
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Ken Kuranchie Challenges Presidential Term Limits in Supreme Court Amid Debates Over President Mahama’s Future Eligibility

Private legal practitioner Ken Kuranchie has petitioned the Supreme Court to clarify what he describes as a "genuine ambiguity" within the 1992 Constitution regarding presidential term limits. The legal challenge focuses on Article 66(2) and seeks to determine whether a president who serves non-consecutive terms is subject to the same limitations as one who serves two terms in succession. While Kuranchie maintains that his case is intended to seek constitutional clarity rather than specifically advocating for a third term for President John Mahama, the outcome of the petition carries significant implications for the President’s eligibility to contest the 2028 elections. Kuranchie argues that the Constitution should be interpreted holistically, suggesting that a president’s eligibility might reset after leaving office following a single term. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reacted strongly to the legal action, with National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye warning that a reinterpretation of the two-term limit could lead to political instability and democratic backsliding. Boakye characterized the debate as a dangerous precedent that might allow a president to rule indefinitely by alternating terms. He further accused President Mahama of holding a "deceptive" stance on the matter, suggesting that the ongoing legal discussions could be politically motivated to circumvent the established constitutional order. The NPP maintains that the original intent of the 1992 Constitution is clear: no individual should serve as president for more than two terms, regardless of whether they are served consecutively. Representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), former Tamale Central MP Inusah Fuseini reaffirmed that the party and President John Mahama remain officially committed to the constitutional two-term limit. While acknowledging that there are diverse opinions within the party and the legal community, Fuseini emphasized that the NDC respects the existing framework of the 1992 Constitution. However, he noted that the party would look to the Supreme Court’s eventual interpretation to provide a final resolution on how non-consecutive terms should be treated under the law. This position seeks to balance the party's respect for the law with the ongoing judicial inquiry into the specifics of eligibility. Academic and legal experts have also entered the fray, with Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua of the University of Ghana arguing that the Supreme Court may not even need to entertain the petitions. Professor Appiagyei-Atua contends that the constitutional language is already unambiguous, asserting that serving two terms concludes an individual's opportunity to hold the presidency for life, irrespective of the interval between those terms. As the Supreme Court prepares to deliberate on the matter, the case has sparked a broader national conversation about the resilience of Ghana's democratic institutions and the importance of maintaining clear, enforceable limits on executive power to ensure long-term political stability.

272 Ghanaians lured into Russia-Ukraine war, 55 killed – Foreign Minister
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Foreign Minister Ablakwa Reveals 55 Ghanaians Killed in Russia-Ukraine War as Government Targets Global Trafficking Syndicates

The Ghanaian government, under the administration of President John Mahama, has launched a comprehensive investigation into criminal recruitment networks after revealing a harrowing toll of citizens caught in foreign conflicts and scams. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed during a recent media briefing in Accra that at least 55 Ghanaians have been killed and two are being held as prisoners of war after being lured into the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These victims, predominantly young men who responded to fraudulent job advertisements for roles in construction and hospitality, were instead diverted into combat. This disturbing trend is part of a larger exploitation of approximately 1,780 African nationals from 36 countries by sophisticated international trafficking syndicates. Beyond the battlefield, the government is intensifying its crackdown on the 'QNET' recruitment scam operating across West Africa. Minister Ablakwa detailed how victims are often charged up to $5,000 for non-existent overseas jobs, only to have their passports and valuables seized upon arrival in neighboring countries. These individuals are then subjected to psychological manipulation and forced to recruit others into the scheme. So far in 2026, the government has rescued 61 Ghanaians from such conditions in Côte d’Ivoire. These interventions are part of a broader repatriation initiative that has seen 1,242 citizens returned to Ghana this year, including 638 from Libya and 244 from Cambodia, many of whom were victims of cyber-fraud syndicates. The crisis has sparked significant national debate regarding the root causes of irregular migration. Broadcaster Charles Akrofi has linked the trend to the country's youth unemployment situation, arguing that the lack of local prospects drives young people to engage with dubious travel operators and unlicensed agencies. Akrofi noted that the current system often feels closed to those without political or affluent connections, creating a vacuum that traffickers are eager to fill. He called for increased law enforcement oversight of travel agencies to prevent further exploitation of vulnerable youth. In response to these evolving threats, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is doubling down on public education campaigns and inter-agency collaboration. Minister Ablakwa has urged all prospective migrants to rigorously verify job opportunities through legitimate channels and to be wary of advertisements on social media. The Mahama administration is currently working with diplomatic missions and international partners to identify and assist those still trapped abroad while strengthening measures to dismantle fraudulent recruitment networks at home. The government maintains that protecting Ghanaian citizens from exploitation remains a top priority as it seeks to promote safer, legal migration pathways.