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.

International Criminal Court Member States Vote to Dismiss Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Over Misconduct Allegations
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International Criminal Court Member States Vote to Dismiss Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Over Misconduct Allegations

In an unprecedented move, member states of the International Criminal Court (ICC) have voted to dismiss Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan following a series of serious misconduct allegations. In a secret ballot held at the United Nations, 82 out of 125 member states backed the motion for his removal, successfully reaching the absolute majority required for dismissal. This decision marks a significant turning point for the Hague-based tribunal, which is now grappling with a leadership crisis and heightened scrutiny regarding its institutional integrity. The dismissal stems from an inquiry into claims of serious misconduct, including an improper sexual relationship with a junior staff member. Findings from the investigation suggested that Khan not only engaged in a relationship with a subordinate but also attempted to interfere with the staff member's efforts to lodge a formal complaint. These allegations, which led to his initial suspension, were characterized by member states as a grave breach of duty. The vote reflects the international community's concern over harassment and the maintenance of professional standards within the world's permanent war crimes court. Karim Khan has vehemently denied all accusations, describing the investigative process as unfair, unlawful, and procedurally flawed. He has maintained his innocence throughout the inquiry, claiming that he was not afforded due process. The timing of his ouster has also triggered intense debate, as it occurs against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions. Khan recently drew global attention for seeking arrest warrants for high-profile leaders involved in the Gaza conflict, including officials from Israel and Hamas. This context has led some critics to speculate on whether political motivations influenced the timing or nature of the complaints against him. As the ICC moves forward, it faces the daunting challenge of restoring its credibility and navigating the selection of a new Chief Prosecutor. The court’s independence is currently under a microscope, with observers warning that this internal crisis could impact its ongoing investigations and its perceived legitimacy in the landscape of international justice. The tribunal must now balance its judicial responsibilities with necessary institutional reforms to ensure that future leadership can withstand both internal misconduct and external political pressures.

Mahama honours Mills' legacy at 14th anniversary memorial
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President John Mahama Leads Tributes to Late Prof. John Evans Atta Mills at 14th Anniversary Memorial

President John Dramani Mahama joined family members, National Democratic Congress (NDC) officials, and dignitaries at Asomdwee Park in Accra to mark the 14th anniversary of the passing of former President John Evans Atta Mills. During the solemn wreath-laying ceremony, President Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of his late predecessor, who died in office on July 24, 2012. The event served as a significant reminder of Mills’ enduring influence on Ghana’s democratic journey and his unique brand of leadership that continues to resonate within the NDC and the nation at large. Describing Mills as a "gentle soul," President Mahama highlighted the values of humility, integrity, and compassionate leadership that defined the late Professor's tenure. Reflecting on his own experience serving as Vice President under Mills, Mahama noted that true greatness in public service is found in genuine impact rather than personal acclaim. He specifically contrasted Mills' respectful and service-oriented approach with the increasingly confrontational and divisive rhetoric often seen in modern politics, urging current public officials to draw lessons from Mills’ adherence to honesty and the greater good over personal gain. The anniversary also sparked discussions regarding the further integration of the Mills family into the current administration. Joshua Sika Nartey, a hopeful for the NDC National Deputy Communications Officer position, advocated for President Mahama to appoint Sam Kofi Atta Mills, the son of the late President, to a role in the government. Nartey argued that such a gesture would not only honor the late Professor's legacy but also recognize the contributions the younger Mills has made to the party's campaigns. He encouraged party supporters to remain patient and expressed confidence that the President would provide opportunities for dedicated members in due course. As the nation remembers the "Asomdweehene" (King of Peace), the ceremony at Asomdwee Park underscored the NDC’s internal unity and its reliance on the foundational values established during the Mills era. President Mahama concluded the proceedings with a prayer for the Republic, pledging that his administration would continue to uphold the ideals of integrity and democratic respect. The gathering reinforced the sentiment that while Mills is no longer present, his vision for a peaceful and prosperous Ghana remains a guiding light for the current leadership and future generations of Ghanaian politicians.

Chairman Wontumi Sentenced to 20 Years for Illegal Mining as Legal Team Challenges "Rushed" Prosecution
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Chairman Wontumi Sentenced to 20 Years for Illegal Mining as Legal Team Challenges "Rushed" Prosecution

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the influential Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) known as Chairman Wontumi, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison by an Accra High Court for his involvement in illegal mining activities. Presiding Judge Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay delivered the verdict on July 20, 2026, following a high-profile trial that centered on operations linked to Akonta Mining Limited. In addition to the custodial sentence, Wontumi was handed a fine of GH 120,000, with an additional three-year prison term if the fine remains unpaid. The conviction marks a historic moment in Ghana’s struggle against "galamsey," with environmental experts like Professor Abass Gibrilla hailing the judgment as a critical turning point that targets the powerful financiers behind ecological destruction. Lead counsel for the defense, Samuel Atta Akyea, has vehemently criticized the trial, describing it as "ambulance justice" due to what he perceives as an "indecent haste" to secure a conviction against a politically exposed person. Atta Akyea argued that the court failed to prove Wontumi directly authorized illegal mining, suggesting that earth-moving equipment on-site could have been for land reclamation rather than criminal extraction. He further accused Justice Kocuvie-Tay of overstepping her authority by refusing to refer constitutional questions regarding the case to the Supreme Court. The legal team has announced plans to file an appeal and will simultaneously seek bail pending appeal, emphasizing that Wontumi should be treated as a first-time offender rather than a "sacrificial lamb." The sentencing has sparked a fierce national debate over the nature of the conviction. While the NPP has labeled Wontumi a "political prisoner" and alleged selective prosecution by the NDC administration under President John Mahama, legal experts and former lawmakers have countered this narrative. Inusah Fuseini, the former MP for Tamale Central, and Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei Atua of the University of Ghana both characterized Wontumi as a "common convict" rather than a political one, asserting that his imprisonment resulted from a fair trial for criminal breaches rather than his political beliefs. Amidst these tensions, groups like the Osahen Afenyo-Markin Clergy Prayer Warriors have called for unity and resilience within the NPP, urging the party leadership to rebuild trust and avoid internal conflict ahead of the 2028 elections. As Wontumi begins his sentence at Nsawam Prison, reports from party officials suggest a somber atmosphere; Ashanti Regional Communications Director Paul Yandoh recounted a visit where he described the chairman as visibly shaken. Meanwhile, the Ministry of the Interior, through Press Secretary Julius Kwame Anthony, announced that prison conditions are being improved, with the daily feeding grant for all inmates—including Wontumi—increased from GH 1.80 to GH 5.00. While the defense prepares for its appellate battle, the case remains a focal point for political analysts and environmentalists alike, symbolizing a potential shift toward greater accountability for high-ranking officials involved in environmental crimes.

Thomas Ampem Nyarko — Deputy Minister of Finance
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Finance Minister Ato Forson Tables Six Revenue Bills Amid 6.4% GDP Growth and Minority Skepticism in 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review to Parliament, highlighting a robust 6.4% GDP growth for the first quarter and a steady path toward economic recovery under President John Mahama’s administration. Central to the government's strategy is the introduction of six major legislative amendments, including the Customs Bill, Income Tax Amendment Bill, and Value Added Tax Amendment Bill, designed to plug revenue leakages and modernize the tax regime. Dr. Forson credited the recovery to intentional fiscal correction and digitalization, reporting that the Sinking Fund has already accumulated GH"15.6 billion to meet domestic debt obligations, with a target of GH"30 billion by the end of the year to sustain the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). While the government touted these macroeconomic gains, the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, dismissed the review as a "disguised campaign tool" for President Mahama. Critics like Dr. Gideon Boako, Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, argued that while "economic indicators are green, social indicators remain red," pointing to high youth unemployment and rising living costs that contradict the official growth figures. Concerns were also raised regarding a 40% underspend in capital expenditure, which experts from Deloitte warn could stall critical infrastructure development. In his defense of current fiscal discipline, Dr. Forson revealed that internal reviews found previous project loans under the Akufo-Addo administration had been misallocated to luxury vehicles and conferences, necessitating a pause on certain disbursements. The session also featured updates on the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy and energy security. Deputy Majority Leader Kweku Ricketts-Hagan defended the 24-hour initiative as a long-term strategy to double workforce productivity rather than an overnight mandate for businesses. To support this industrial shift, the government plans to add 1,200 megawatts to the national grid, a move endorsed by the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) despite their parallel calls for a review of the fuel price floor mechanism. However, sectors such as the creative arts expressed disappointment over the absence of updates on the promised GH"40 million Film and Creative Arts funds, while security analysts urged for greater transparency in military spending following Ghana’s high-risk score on the 2025 Government Defence Integrity Index. Looking ahead, the government is preparing to transition to a Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) with the IMF following the expected completion of the current Extended Credit Facility. The Finance Ministry’s roadmap emphasizes broadening the tax net through digitalization without increasing rates, aiming for non-oil tax revenue to reach 14.1% of GDP by next year. However, the ultimate success of these reforms will depend on the government’s ability to address the "factory of frustration" cited by opposition MPs—specifically by ensuring that positive fiscal data translates into tangible job creation and improved living standards for the Ghanaian youth.

Police officers enforcing the law against the unauthorised use of sirens during a recent operation
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Mahama Administration Strengthens Governance via Constitutional Reforms, Siren Restrictions, and Infrastructure Oversight

The government of President John Mahama has signaled a renewed commitment to transparency and institutional discipline through a series of sweeping policy directives and legislative actions. Leading this push, the Citizens’ Platform on Constitutional Reforms (CPCR) has urged the government to promptly publish the full Constitution Review Committee (CRC) report and the Cabinet’s subsequent position paper. This call for transparency follows the Cabinet's recent announcement that it would release these documents to foster an inclusive, citizen-centered reform process. The CPCR emphasized that a clear roadmap and strict timelines are essential to ensuring the credibility of the 1992 Constitution's strengthening, particularly as the nation navigates upcoming electoral seasons. In a move to restore public order and accountability, the Cabinet and the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, have enforced a strict nationwide ban on unauthorized sirens and police escorts. Speaker Bagbin urged Members of Parliament to lead by example, warning that non-compliance would result in the immediate removal of emergency devices from their vehicles. The Ghana Police Service has already intercepted over 4,600 vehicles since June 2026 as part of this enforcement drive. This crackdown aims to prevent the misuse of state resources and enhance road safety, addressing long-standing public concerns regarding the 'siren culture' among politically exposed persons. Economic accountability has also taken center stage, with the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, announcing a zero-tolerance policy for contractors involved in the $500 million World Bank-funded Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP). The initiative, which focuses on rehabilitating critical farm-to-market roads, includes strict penalties such as cashing performance bonds and holding consultants personally liable for substandard work. This oversight runs alongside the government’s domestically funded 'Big Push Initiative,' reflecting a broader strategy to bolster rural economies and ensure value for money in national infrastructure development. On the judicial front, security analysts have cautioned against political interference in high-profile legal cases, specifically regarding the arrest of Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) over illegal mining allegations. Emmanuel Kotin, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Security and Counterterrorism, emphasized that the rule of law must apply equally to all, urging political parties to allow the courts to function without external pressure. Concurrently, the government is advancing long-term economic projects, including the Petroleum Hub in Jomoro and a 'Blue Economy' reset in the fisheries sector. Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, confirmed that agreements for the Jomoro project are nearing completion, while the Ministry of Fisheries has introduced the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act of 2025 to curb illegal fishing and restore declining stocks. These multifaceted efforts reflect the Mahama administration's strategy to balance rapid industrialization with rigorous legal and ethical standards. From the World Gold Council’s US$250,000 commitment to responsible mining to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s defense of farm input distribution cycles, the government is attempting to stabilize key sectors through legislative frameworks and direct community engagement. As these reforms take root, the focus remains on maintaining public trust through consistent enforcement and transparent communication across all branches of governance.

President Mahama (middle) with some government officials and the delegation from Dagbon
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Prof. Frimpong-Boateng Honors President Mills' Ethical Legacy while President Mahama Mourns the Late Overlord of Dagbon

At the 14th Commemorative Lecture for the late President John Evans Atta Mills, former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, lauded the former leader as a bastion of ethics and compassion. Despite being dismissed twice from government positions during Mills' administration—first from the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission in 2009 and later from the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in 2011—Frimpong-Boateng emphasized that these experiences did not diminish his respect for the late President. He characterized Mills as a leader of genuine integrity, though he raised concerns that certain appointees within the administration allegedly exploited Mills' declining health for personal interests. The professor urged Ghanaians to remember the late leader for his consistent character and firm stance against wrongdoing, reflecting on the potential development Ghana might have achieved had Mills completed his full term. Beyond personal tributes, Professor Frimpong-Boateng used the platform to address critical systemic failures, specifically regarding Ghana’s recurring flood crisis. He attributed the ongoing disaster to institutional neglect and a lack of enforcement of land-use regulations rather than just poor waste disposal habits. He pointed to the encroachment of flood management areas and development within protected wetlands as significant factors that threaten national progress. Frimpong-Boateng stressed the urgent need for state institutions to enforce environmental regulations, warning that a failure to address these deeper systemic challenges would continue to undermine the nation's sustainable development and future stability. In a parallel moment of national mourning, President John Mahama has characterized the passing of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, as a profound loss to the Republic. Speaking to a delegation from the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, President Mahama praised the late monarch for his pivotal role in fostering peace and unity within the Dagbon Kingdom and across the country. The President noted that the Yaa Naa’s reign was defined by successful efforts to heal long-standing divisions and promote national cohesion. President Mahama emphasized the personal bond he shared with the late monarch and pledged government support to the people of Dagbon throughout the mourning period. Religious organizations, including the Assemblies of God, Ghana, and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), have also joined in paying tribute to the late Overlord. They recognized his seven-year reign as a period of reconciliation that provided a beacon of wisdom for the entire nation. Both organizations encouraged the Dagbon community to sustain the peace that the Yaa Naa championed, noting his vital contributions to the social fabric of Ghana. These collective tributes to both President Mills and the Yaa Naa underscore a national emphasis on leadership characterized by peace, ethical conduct, and the necessity of strong, principled institutions to guide Ghana forward.

Getty Images Trump, in a blue suit and yellow tie, sits at his desk in the Oval Office. There are people standing around hi, including two young girls to his left. On his desk is a large bottle filled with milk.
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Zelenskyy Overhauls Military Command Amid Protests as Global Powers Navigate AI Rivalry and Trade Tensions

In a period of significant geopolitical realignment, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Army Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi following intense public protests in Kyiv. The unrest was triggered by the earlier removal of popular Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, exposing a deep-seated leadership crisis within the wartime government. The friction centers on a strategic divide between Fedorov’s push for military modernization and Syrskyi’s reliance on traditional tactics. General Mykhailo Drapatyi has been appointed as the new Army Chief, tasked with unifying the defense strategy as the nation faces continued external aggression and internal demands for reform. Simultaneously, the European Union is negotiating its 21st sanctions package against Russia, targeting 94 financial institutions to further cripple Moscow’s economy, though Greece remains a holdout over concerns regarding Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) restrictions. In North America and Asia, the United States is managing a complex web of trade and technological confrontations. Under President Donald Trump, the U.S. has intensified trade pressure on Canada, specifically targeting its dairy supply management system and prompting Canada to cancel a joint celebration for the Gordie Howe International Bridge. On the technological front, the U.S. and China are scheduled for high-level talks in September to address the risks of artificial intelligence, including military use and cyber threats. This follows serious allegations from a White House adviser that China’s Moonshot AI illegally distilled capabilities from U.S. models like Anthropic’s Fable AI. Amidst these tensions, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $1.15 trillion defense bill, reflecting a massive commitment to military readiness despite partisan divisions over costs and Middle Eastern entanglements. The Middle East and Africa are also witnessing shifts in long-standing political dynamics. The U.S. has signed a landmark nuclear cooperation deal with Saudi Arabia, allowing for a civilian nuclear program that American companies will support, though the move has raised proliferation concerns in Congress. In Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo's C64 opposition coalition has temporarily postponed mass protests against President Tshisekedi to allow for a church-mediated national dialogue. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso’s military leader Ibrahim Traore has dismissed rumors of internal power struggles within his junta, and a court in Angola has sentenced two Russian nationals for espionage and attempts to influence the country’s elections. In South Africa, mining tycoon Patrice Motsepe has ruled out a presidential bid, affirming his commitment to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Other notable developments include Moldova’s parliament electing finance expert Vasile Tofan as Prime Minister to stabilize the government following a series of scandals. In Western Europe, France has become the first EU nation to pass a law banning social media for children under 15, citing mental health and safety risks. On the legal front, Kenyan lawyers have launched a nationwide strike to protest systemic judicial corruption and case delays, while in the U.S., New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani retracted a pledge to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his upcoming UN visit, citing a lack of local authority. These diverse events underscore a global landscape increasingly defined by leadership transitions, the regulation of emerging technologies, and the hardening of international trade and security alliances.

President Mahama Demands AU Action on South African Xenophobia Amidst Strengthening Global Security and Trade Ties
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President Mahama Demands AU Action on South African Xenophobia Amidst Strengthening Global Security and Trade Ties

President John Dramani Mahama has called on the African Union (AU) to take decisive action against recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, describing them as a severe threat to continental unity and integration. During a high-level meeting at Jubilee House with AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the President highlighted the human and financial toll on Ghana, confirming that two Ghanaian citizens have died in recent violence. Mahama criticized the response from South African authorities as inadequate and insisted that the matter be prioritized at the next AU summit. While President Mahama has engaged in diplomatic discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to foster accountability, he emphasized that Ghana has incurred significant costs in evacuating its citizens and will continue to seek justice without compromising bilateral relations. Simultaneously, Ghana is advancing its strategic interests through strengthened ties with Morocco and the Netherlands. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa met with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Accra, where Ghana reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara region as the most realistic basis for a lasting resolution. This position aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 2797. On the security front, Minister Ablakwa also signed a Letter of Intent with Dutch Minister of Justice and Security David Van Weel to combat transnational organized crime and the rise of synthetic drug abuse among youth. These initiatives are expected to be bolstered by Ghana’s upcoming chairmanship of the African Union, which the government intends to use as a platform for enhanced continental security cooperation. On the economic and defense fronts, the Mahama administration is actively courting international investment and aid to support its domestic recovery. The President recently hosted Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers at Jubilee House to discuss expanding trade and agricultural collaboration, highlighting Ghana’s "24-hour Economy" program and post-IMF bailout reforms. In a boost to national defense, the United States Embassy in Accra delivered 84 pallets of military equipment, including radar systems and body armor, to the Ghana Armed Forces. This donation is intended to enhance the Ghana Navy’s operational readiness and reinforce regional stability, marking a period of intense international engagement for the new administration. Beyond Ghana’s immediate borders, other regional actors are also recalibrating their international stances. Nigeria has signaled a desire to deepen its strategic partnership with Germany in areas of renewable energy and vocational education. Meanwhile, Morocco is currently seeking explanations from Italian authorities regarding the death of a Moroccan national, Abderrahim Fakir, during an arrest in Bologna—an incident that has sparked significant protests and calls for transparency from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Together, these developments illustrate a complex landscape of African diplomacy where protecting citizens abroad and securing economic partnerships remain the top priorities for the continent's leaders.

Court to determine whether to strike out charges against former NAFCO boss Thursday
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High Court Rulings and Corruption Allegations Shake Ghana's Political and Business Landscape

The Accra High Court has emerged as a central arena for high-profile legal battles involving prominent political and business figures, highlighted by significant rulings and pending decisions. On July 23, 2026, the court is expected to rule on an application by the former CEO of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), Hanan Abdul-Wahab, to dismiss multiple criminal charges including fraud and money laundering. His counsel, Godfred Yeboah Dame, argues that the charge sheet is 'fatally defective' and lacks the specificity required for a fair trial. Simultaneously, the court's Commercial Division has authorized police assistance for UK-based Cola Holdings Limited to take possession of the No. 1 Oxford Street Hotel in Osu, a property owned by businessman Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar. The ruling follows unsuccessful attempts to obtain the property peacefully under the Borrowers and Lenders Act. In the Ashanti Region, the legal system has delivered a severe blow to NPP Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in connection with the Akonta Mining illegal mining case. The judgment, delivered by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, sparked immediate controversy, prompting the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to clarify that its Deputy Commissioner, Mercy Larbi, was not the presiding judge. Amid the fallout, Wontumi's lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, refuted claims that he abandoned his client, explaining that his absence during the ruling was due to his daughter’s graduation in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has addressed public speculation regarding his family ties to the presiding judge to ensure transparency. Corruption allegations have also caused significant personal and political strain for other high-ranking figures. Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a spokesperson for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, revealed that his marriage has been severely affected by Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) allegations involving the misappropriation of funds during his tenure at the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation. Aboagye has publicly challenged the figures cited by EOCO, asserting that the investigation involves GH¢5.2 million rather than the GH¢55 million reported. Meanwhile, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has secured permanent residency in the United States after a U.S. immigration judge ruled that corruption allegations presented by Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor lacked sufficient evidence to block his green card application. Beyond high-profile political cases, law enforcement agencies have intensified efforts against organized crime and environmental degradation. EOCO and the Ghana Police Service successfully rescued 39 individuals from a human trafficking and travel fraud syndicate in Hohoe, identifying two groups—'Model Q' and 'Ignite'—that allegedly deceived victims with false promises of overseas jobs. In a separate operation, the National Security Secretariat arrested a suspect for illegal mining activities near an Agenda 111 Hospital project site in Adansi Asokwa. These developments underscore a broader trend of rigorous legal and regulatory scrutiny as the nation navigates complex issues of accountability, justice, and the protection of national assets under the current administration.

Odeneho Kwaku Appiah — Aspiring NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu — Aspiring NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman
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NPP and NDC Internal Contests Intensify as Leadership Aspirants and Policy Debates Shape Path to 2028 Elections

The Ghanaian political landscape is witnessing a surge in internal activities as both the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) gear up for their respective regional and national leadership contests. In the NPP, the Ashanti Regional chairmanship race has emerged as a critical battleground, with 34 candidates cleared for elections scheduled for August 15, 2026. The contest is primarily a showdown between Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA), who advocates for "less talk and more action," and Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the former EPA Chief Executive. Meanwhile, Paul Afoko, an aspirant for the NPP National Chairmanship, has re-emerged on the political scene, calling for party unity to reclaim power while clarifying that his business interests in the Kempinski Hotel are investment-based rather than outright ownership. This period of reorganization extends to the diaspora, with the NPP-USA branch preparing for its delegates conference in Massachusetts to elect new executives ahead of the 2028 general elections. Simultaneously, internal dynamics within the NDC are being shaped by both new candidacies and disciplinary measures. Jerry Stanley Awude has declared his intention to run for the Deputy Constituency Secretary position in Ho Central, focusing on competence and accessibility. However, the party's Functional Executive Committee recently suspended the Awutu Senya East Constituency Chairman, Stephen Ofosu Agyare, for five months following a petition from MP Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor. Amidst these internal maneuvers, NDC communicator Roger TD Wills has observed that the Ghanaian electorate has become more discerning due to the prevalence of social media and AI, urging leaders to communicate with greater transparency. Additionally, NDC legal team member Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu has critiqued the effectiveness of speech-related prosecutions, following the conviction of a TikToker for offensive conduct toward President John Mahama, suggesting that such laws may require public review to prevent political weaponization. Accountability and institutional performance have also become central themes of political discourse. Dr. Stephen Amoah, the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, has strongly rejected a performance ranking by Global InfoAnalytics that labeled him a low performer. Amoah described the survey as "dangerous and misleading," arguing that it fails to account for his legislative contributions and local development initiatives, such as health funds and library projects. In response, Mussa Dankwah of Global InfoAnalytics maintained that low ratings serve as a vital warning for MPs to improve their visibility and engagement with constituents. The debate underscores a broader call from civil society, with Dr. Rasheed Draman of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) advocating for urgent campaign finance reforms and cautioning Parliament against declaring seats vacant based on arrests alone, specifically citing the case of Independent MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong. As both major parties navigate these leadership transitions and public scrutinies, the focus remains firmly on strengthening grassroots structures and party unity. Candidates like Collins Asante, vying for the NPP Greater Accra Regional Organiser role, and Madam Janet Adade in the Guan Constituency, are emphasizing loyalty and collective action as the keys to electoral success in 2028. These internal developments, coupled with calls for more transparent governance and the rising influence of digital information, suggest a highly competitive and transformative period for Ghanaian politics as the nation looks toward its next major democratic milestone.

Akosua Frema Osei-Opare — Former Chief of Staff
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President Mahama and Speaker Bagbin Lead Renewed National Push for Institutional Accountability and Reform

President John Dramani Mahama and the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, have issued separate but complementary calls for a heightened culture of accountability and the protection of state institutions from political mismanagement. Speaking at Ho Technical University as part of his #ResettingGhanaTour, President Mahama emphasized that accountability is a vital mechanism for protecting the public interest rather than a tool for political retribution. He pledged to enhance transparency and ensure that public officials are held answerable for their actions, framing responsible leadership as a cornerstone of his administration's governance strategy. This sentiment was echoed by Speaker Bagbin during the launch of the book "Rebuilding Confidence, Restoring Strength," where he urged Ghanaians to act as custodians of state institutions to safeguard them from interference and poor governance. Speaker Bagbin pointed to the National Investment Bank (NIB) as a primary example of how institutional decline can be reversed through vision and integrity. He noted that the NIB had suffered from a decade-long absence of audited accounts and significant mismanagement before its recent turnaround under the leadership of Chief Dr. Doli-Wura Abdul-Malik Seidu Zakaria. The bank's financial recovery has been remarkable, with profits reportedly rising from GH"3.1 million in 2024 to GH"344 million in 2025. Bagbin asserted that such successes prove that failing institutions can be restored when leaders prioritize national development over personal or political interests, though he warned that the erosion of public confidence remains a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic stability. In contrast to the NIB success story, recent Auditor-General reports have highlighted significant inefficiencies within local governance structures. Data from 2021 to 2025 reveals a disturbing trend where various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) spent over GH"22.4 million on salaries for revenue collectors who only mobilized GH"10.26 million in total revenue. Critics and experts, including Dr. Richard Fiadomor of the Chamber for Local Governance, have called for merit-based recruitment and the adoption of digital systems to address these losses. Meanwhile, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has moved to dismiss media reports of a GH"78.6 million scandal, stating that a recent performance audit found no evidence of financial loss or misappropriation, contrary to emerging claims. Adding to the national discourse on governance, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and former Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare have called for a focus on democratic values and law enforcement. Commemorating the 20th anniversary of the passing of Justice D. F. Annan, Afenyo-Markin urged Ghanaians to emulate Annan’s impartial leadership and commitment to the rule of law. Simultaneously, Mrs. Osei-Opare argued at a forum in Accra that Ghana does not require new anti-graft legislation, but rather the strict enforcement of existing laws and closer scrutiny of Auditor-General reports. Collectively, these leaders emphasize that the future of Ghana's Fourth Republic depends on the integrity of its officials and the strength of its public institutions.

'Controversial' GH¢60 deduction from national service personnel allowances suspended
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Government Halts Controversial National Service Deductions as Interior Ministry Mandates Biometric Ghana Card Verification

In a series of significant administrative and legislative shifts, the Government of Ghana has taken decisive action to address public concerns regarding National Service allowances and the integrity of national identification. The Minister for Youth, Empowerment and Development, George Opare Addo, has directed the National Service Authority (NSA) to immediately suspend a controversial GH"60 deduction from the monthly allowances of National Service Personnel. The deduction, intended to fund a "Capacity Building Programme" organized by the National Service Personnel Association (NASPA), faced intense backlash from service members and the Concerned National Service Personnel Association of Ghana, who questioned the legality of the charge and the lack of prior consultation. NASPA President Abdul Wahab Mohammed has since confirmed that all further deductions are halted pending a comprehensive review of the initiative. Simultaneously, the Ministry for the Interior has introduced stringent new protocols for identity verification to combat fraud and enhance data security. Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak announced that under the National Identity Register (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2523), biometric verification is now the only legal method for authenticating Ghana Card holders. This regulation prohibits public and private institutions from relying on photocopies, scanned images, or visual inspections of the card. A three-month transition period, running from July 27 to November 2, 2026, has been established for organizations to install the necessary biometric systems. Non-compliant institutions face potential sanctions and the loss of access to the national identity verification platform. In the legislative arena, the Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Isaac Adongo, has moved to clarify the purpose of a proposed $300 million World Bank loan, refuting claims that the funds are intended to finance the operational costs of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme. Adongo detailed that the loan is specifically earmarked for secondary education infrastructure and system strengthening. The allocation includes $257.7 million for increasing equitable access, $33.8 million for quality improvement, and $8.5 million for decision-making systems. The primary goal of this investment is to eliminate the double-track system by upgrading and expanding school facilities across the country, supported by an additional $23 million in counterpart funding from the Ghanaian government. These developments come alongside broader government efforts to provide social relief and promote institutional transparency. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently began issuing free chip-embedded passport replacements to victims of the June 29 floods, with the first batch of 100 beneficiaries receiving documents in Accra. While the government addresses domestic logistics, Ghanaian civil society and leaders have also been active on the international stage, with representatives recently attending the 67th Zonta International Convention in Vancouver to advocate for women as central agents of social change and leadership. Collectively, these actions reflect the current administration’s focus on digital transformation, infrastructure development, and responding to the financial and social concerns of the citizenry.