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.

YEF congratulates Alfred Kojo Thompson on election as NPP National Treasurer
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NPP holds thanksgiving services in Goaso and Kintampo

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has embarked on a national thanksgiving tour to celebrate the successful conclusion of its internal elections and the selection of its flagbearer for the 2028 general elections. The tour, which included significant stops in Goaso and Kintampo, brought together national executives and party leadership to express gratitude for the peaceful electoral process and to prepare the party's grassroots for the upcoming national campaign. In Goaso, located in the Ahafo Region, the party held a service at the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua emphasized the necessity of divine guidance as the party moves forward. During the service, National Chairman John Boadu addressed specific concerns raised by the SDA community regarding elections held on Saturdays. Boadu assured the congregation that the party's flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is committed to addressing these religious observance issues if he is successful in the 2028 polls. During a visit to Kintampo, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia declared that the party has successfully resolved its internal wrangling, urging all members to embrace unity. He stressed that a cohesive front is essential for the NPP to secure a majority of parliamentary seats and implement its socio-economic policies. To demonstrate his commitment to community relations, Dr. Bawumia donated GH‵30,000 to the local Muslim community, reinforcing his call for party members to work diligently at the local level. The tour also highlighted the election of the party's new executive team, including National Treasurer Alfred Kojo Thompson. The Young Executive Forum (YEF) has formally congratulated Thompson, expressing confidence that his leadership and integrity will significantly enhance the party's financial management. The YEF pledged its full support to the new leadership as they focus on strengthening the party's mission and administrative structures. As the NPP transitions from internal reorganization to active national mobilization, these thanksgiving events serve as a platform to consolidate support across different regions and religious groups. By prioritizing internal reconciliation and grassroots engagement, the party leadership aims to build the momentum necessary for the 2028 electoral cycle.

Michael Tetteh Kwetey takes number one spot on NDC regional ballot
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Michael Tetteh Kwetey takes number one spot on NDC regional ballot

Michael Tetteh Kwetey has secured the number one position on the ballot paper for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Greater Accra Regional Chairmanship race. The official balloting process, which determines the order in which candidates appear for the voting exercise, has placed Kwetey at the top of the list. In the context of Ghanaian internal party politics, the first slot is frequently utilized as a symbolic advantage and a primary mnemonic device for mobilizing delegates during the campaign period. Following the balloting outcome, Kwetey emphasized that the number one position represents more than just a numerical sequence. He stated that the top spot symbolizes the renewed direction and the core values he intends to bring to the NDC's leadership within the Greater Accra Region. His campaign has focused on revitalizing the party's regional structure and ensuring that the NDC is well-positioned to engage voters effectively in what is traditionally a critical electoral battleground. The Greater Accra regional elections are scheduled to take place in November 2026. As the party continues its internal reorganization efforts under the current administration, the race for the regional chairmanship is expected to draw significant attention from party members and political observers. Kwetey’s early securing of the first ballot slot provides a focal point for his messaging as he seeks to consolidate support from delegates across the various constituencies in the region ahead of the polls.

United Kingdom bans violent online pornography depicting strangulation
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United Kingdom bans violent online pornography depicting strangulation

The United Kingdom government has announced a ban on online pornography depicting violent acts, including strangulation and incest, which will come into effect on 6 November 2025. The new legislation specifically targets material showing non-fatal strangulation, incestuous acts, and adult actors role-playing as minors. This policy shift follows a comprehensive review that highlighted the increasing normalization of choking within adult content and the significant potential for harm it poses to viewers, particularly young people who may be influenced by these depictions. Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones emphasized that the primary goal of the law is to combat the spread of violent content that distorts perceptions of healthy and consensual relationships. While non-fatal strangulation is already categorized as a criminal offense in physical interactions without consent, these new regulations extend those legal protections to the digital sphere. The government has warned that offenders could face substantial prison sentences for the possession or publication of such prohibited material. Legal experts have expressed support for the move but have cautioned that the effectiveness of the ban will rely heavily on the responsiveness of technology companies. Platforms will be required to implement robust enforcement measures to identify and remove the restricted content quickly. As the November deadline approaches, the UK government intends for these measures to create a safer online environment and align digital content standards with existing laws against physical sexual violence.

A promotional banner for the documentary 'We Shall Lead' featuring a row of seven diverse portraits of young African individuals. The graphic includes a 'Watch Now' call to action and the subtitle 'Voices Shaping the Future of Africa' alongside the WYDE Political Parties logo.
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Hariratah Ibrahim Doudu calls for more women and youth in political roles

Ms. Hariratah Ibrahim Doudu, the Vice President of the Students' Representative Council (SRC) at the Ghana School of Law, has called for significant structural changes to address the systemic barriers hindering women and youth from entering Ghanaian politics. Speaking during the premiere of the European Union-funded documentary "We Shall Lead: Voices Shaping the Future of Africa," Ms. Doudu highlighted the persistent challenges that discourage young leaders from seeking high-office positions. The documentary serves as a platform for emerging leaders to voice their concerns and propose solutions for a more inclusive political landscape. During her address, Ms. Doudu pointed out a concerning trend at the Ghana School of Law, noting that despite a significant female student population, no woman had contested for the vice presidency of the SRC for over five years until her recent candidacy. She emphasized that this lack of representation is not due to a lack of ambition but rather a result of deep-seated systemic hurdles and financial constraints that disproportionately affect women and young people. These barriers, she argued, must be dismantled to ensure that diverse voices are represented at the decision-making table. The call for reform was echoed by other prominent youth figures, including Rashid Ibrahim from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and Sherif Ghali. These leaders stressed that for young people to take on meaningful roles in governance, there must be a deliberate effort to provide greater financial support and mentorship. They argued that the high cost of political campaigns and the absence of a supportive infrastructure often force capable young individuals to remain on the periphery of active politics, depriving the nation of fresh perspectives and innovative leadership. The documentary "We Shall Lead" is part of a broader EU-funded initiative aimed at enhancing democratic engagement among women and youth across Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda. By showcasing the experiences of young leaders in these three countries, the project seeks to promote their influence in decision-making processes and strengthen the democratic fabric of the region. The initiative underscores the importance of creating an environment where every citizen, regardless of age or gender, has a realistic opportunity to contribute to their country's political development.

Ministry of Gender reviews national plan of action against human trafficking
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Ministry of Gender reviews national plan of action against human trafficking

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has convened a Technical Working Group meeting to review Ghana's National Plan of Action (NPA) against human trafficking. This strategic review brings together key stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of current interventions and to design a more robust framework for the future. The initiative aims to address the complexities of modern slavery by streamlining the national response to exploitation and ensuring that the country's protective measures remain relevant. During the deliberations, participants focused on identifying critical gaps within existing anti-trafficking protocols and discussing strategies to enhance the speed of intervention. A major priority identified by the working group is the improvement of data coordination across various agencies. Stakeholders noted that reliable, centralized data is fundamental to understanding trafficking trends and ensuring that resources are directed where they are most needed to support victims and prosecute offenders. Director of the Human Trafficking Secretariat, Abena Annobea Asare, emphasized that effective planning depends heavily on the collective commitment of all partners involved. She urged stakeholders to foster stronger collaboration to prevent trafficking and to provide comprehensive support for survivors. The review process is expected to lead to an updated action plan that provides clear guidelines for multi-sectoral cooperation, strengthening Ghana's capacity to protect vulnerable citizens and combat human rights violations.

John Mahama blocks bill to scrap Office of the Special Prosecutor
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John Mahama blocks bill to scrap Office of the Special Prosecutor

Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu has disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama personally intervened to halt legislative attempts to abolish the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). According to the Minister, the President acted against a bill introduced by senior members of his own National Democratic Congress (NDC) to ensure the anti-corruption institution remains operational. This intervention highlights the President's apparent commitment to maintaining independent oversight bodies, even when faced with significant internal party pressure from the legislative branch. The move to scrap the OSP was spearheaded by key figures within the NDC, which currently holds the majority in Parliament. Specifically, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor had introduced a bill aimed at repealing the legislation that originally established the office. Despite their leadership roles and the legislative weight of their positions, President Mahama reportedly moved to block the initiative, effectively halting the progress of the repeal bill before it could advance further in the house. Felix Kwakye Ofosu’s revelation underscores the internal dynamics of the current NDC administration and the President's specific stance on the country's anti-corruption infrastructure. By preserving the OSP, President Mahama is signaling a departure from the legislative preferences of some of his most prominent party allies. The decision ensures that the office, which was established to independently investigate and prosecute high-level corruption and corruption-related offenses, will continue its mandate under the current government. As the Office of the Special Prosecutor remains intact, the focus now shifts to how the institution will function under the Mahama presidency and whether it will receive the necessary resources and independence to fulfill its duties effectively. The public disclosure of this executive intervention serves to define the President's early approach to governance and anti-corruption, though it remains to be seen how the proponents of the bill within the NDC parliamentary caucus will adjust to the executive's decision to maintain the office.

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Alexander Afenyo-Markin advised to drop defamation suit against Sammy Gyamfi

Private legal practitioner Austin Kwabena Brako-Powers has called on Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to discontinue his legal battle against Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board. This advice follows a recent High Court ruling that struck out the defamation lawsuit filed by the Minority Leader against Mr. Gyamfi. Brako-Powers suggested that proceeding further with the matter could be counterproductive for the NPP leader. Speaking on GBC’s Current Agenda, Brako-Powers described the ongoing litigation as a potential "trap" for the Minority Leader. He argued that since the court had already made a determination to strike out the case, the Effutu Member of Parliament should consider letting the issue go rather than attempting to revive or pursue it further. The lawsuit centered on alleged defamatory statements made by Gyamfi, though the specific details of the initial remarks were not the focus of the lawyer's recent intervention. The legal friction between the two prominent political figures highlights the ongoing tensions between the Minority and government appointees under the current administration. Sammy Gyamfi, who now heads the Ghana Gold Board, has remained a central figure in political discourse, often finding himself at odds with the leadership of the New Patriotic Party. Brako-Powers emphasized that for the sake of political focus and legal strategy, abandoning the suit would be the most prudent course of action for Afenyo-Markin at this juncture.

Henry Kokofu accuses government of deceit over its reset agenda
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Henry Kokofu accuses government of deceit over its reset agenda

Henry Kokofu, the former Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has launched a sharp critique of the current administration’s ‘resetting agenda.’ Speaking on Peace FM’s flagship morning show, Kokrokoo, Kokofu accused the government of failing to live up to its public promises and instead delivering a series of controversies that undermine its core message to the Ghanaian people. He described the narrative of a national reset as a failed promise that has been overshadowed by persistent governance issues. During the broadcast, Kokofu expressed deep disappointment in the government's trajectory, characterizing the much-vaunted reset as a deceptive narrative used to mislead voters. He argued that rather than observing tangible improvements or a meaningful pivot in governance, citizens are witnessing what he described as ‘scandal upon scandal.’ According to the former EPA chief, this pattern of governance is a direct betrayal of the trust placed in the administration by the electorate, suggesting that the reality of the government's actions contradicts its political rhetoric. Looking ahead, Kokofu warned that the political consequences of these perceived failures would be felt in the next election cycle. He asserted that Ghanaians are increasingly disillusioned by unfulfilled promises and will hold government officials strictly accountable at the ballot box. His remarks reflect a growing trend of public scrutiny regarding the administration's performance and the actual effectiveness of its strategic initiatives since President John Mahama assumed office in January 2025.

Evacuation of waste ongoing at the Agbogbloshie site
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Mahama Ayariga commends military for Agbogbloshie waste evacuation

The Minister of Local Government, Mahama Ayariga, has commended the Ghana Armed Forces for their significant progress in the ongoing waste evacuation exercise at Agbogbloshie. During a recent visit to the site near the Odaw River, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the military's efforts to clear the heavily polluted area. The project, which was commissioned by President John Mahama, is a vital step toward reclaiming the land and restoring the environmental health of the capital's central business district. According to details provided by Colonel Emmanuel Asia, the military has intensified its operations to ensure the timely completion of the task. This includes the implementation of night hauls, a strategy designed to speed up the removal of waste while avoiding the heavy daytime traffic in the Agbogbloshie and Korle Bu areas. The Minister urged the personnel to maintain this pace, stressing that the early completion of the evacuation is essential for the next phase of the development. Once the waste removal is finalized, the government plans to begin dredging the Odaw River to prevent flooding and further pollution. Minister Ayariga revealed that the long-term vision for the site is its transformation into an eco-tourism destination. He also used the opportunity to call for private sector involvement, encouraging donations and technical support to ensure that the project's ambitious goals are met and sustained for the benefit of the community. The Agbogbloshie evacuation is part of a broader government strategy to address urban environmental challenges. By converting a formerly hazardous area into a green space, the administration aims to improve the quality of life for residents and create new economic opportunities. The successful completion of this exercise will mark a major milestone in the restoration of the Odaw River basin and the modernization of Accra’s urban landscape.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah inaugurates five mining cooperatives in Ellembelle
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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah inaugurates five mining cooperatives in Ellembelle

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has inaugurated five new societies under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Nkroful, Ellembelle District. This initiative marks a significant step toward formalizing the small-scale mining sector and ensuring that gold extraction in the region is conducted under strict environmental and safety regulations. During the ceremony, the Minister presented official certificates and permits to the cooperatives, signaling a shift toward legal and sustainable operations. The Minister underscored the government's stance that the pursuit of gold must not come at the expense of Ghana’s natural heritage or the well-being of future generations. "Take the gold, but restore the land," he charged the cooperatives, emphasizing that land reclamation must follow extraction as a non-negotiable requirement. The program aims to change the public perception of small-scale mining from a destructive activity to a professionalized industry that contributes positively to the national economy while protecting water bodies and forest cover. Adding to the Minister's directives, the Regional Director, Mr. Akwasi Adjei Bawuah, highlighted the necessity of transparency and accountability within the newly formed cooperatives. He urged members to strictly adhere to their established bylaws and maintain high standards of operational safety. The rCOMSDEP framework is designed to provide miners with the necessary skills and legal backing to operate without the fear of crackdowns, provided they remain committed to the environmental restoration activities outlined in their permits. The inauguration of these five cooperatives in the Western Region serves as a blueprint for the Ministry's broader strategy to regulate the artisanal and small-scale mining sector across the country. By empowering local miners through the cooperative model, the government hopes to curb illegal mining operations and foster a culture of responsible resource management. The success of these groups in Ellembelle will be closely monitored as a test case for whether decentralized, community-based mining can effectively balance economic gain with ecological preservation.

Officials from the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly (CCMA) are pictured during a presentation ceremony where they are donating industrial equipment to Persons With Disabilities. A man in a white shirt and black trousers is seen handing over a blue grinding machine to a recipient, while other community members and officials observe the donation.
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Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly distributes equipment and cash to PWDs

The Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly (CCMA) has officially distributed a range of essential working equipment and financial assistance to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) within the metropolis. This initiative, carried out on behalf of President John Mahama’s administration, aims to empower beneficiaries, enhance their livelihoods, and foster greater social inclusion within the local economy. The presentation was led by Hon. George Justice Arthur, who underscored the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable groups through targeted interventions and the consistent application of the Disability Common Fund. The items provided included various tools of trade designed to help the recipients establish or expand small-scale businesses, alongside direct monetary grants. During the handover ceremony, Hon. Arthur emphasized that the fund remains a critical pillar of the government’s social protection strategy. He noted that the distribution is not merely an act of charity but a structured effort to ensure that PWDs have the necessary resources to contribute meaningfully to national development while achieving financial independence. The Director of Social Welfare at the assembly also highlighted the transformative role of the fund in providing access to essential services and resources. The Director urged the beneficiaries to utilize the equipment and funds effectively to improve their living standards. Furthermore, the assembly called for continued support to ensure that all persons with disabilities can lead dignified lives. This latest round of support reflects the CCMA's ongoing mandate to bridge the gap in opportunities for the disabled community in Cape Coast.

Tiriane Balbine Noah elected as first female president of Cameroon's MRC
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Tiriane Balbine Noah elected as first female president of Cameroon's MRC

Tiriane Balbine Noah has made history as the first woman elected to lead Cameroon's primary opposition party, the Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC). Her election took place during an extraordinary elective congress on Saturday, representing a significant milestone in the country's political landscape. Noah's ascent to the presidency of the MRC marks a new chapter for the party as it navigates the complex and often restrictive political environment of Cameroon. She succeeds Maurice Kamto, a seasoned politician who has been a central figure in the party’s efforts to challenge the status quo for several years. The transition comes at a time when the MRC is positioning itself as the leading alternative to the ruling government. Despite her predecessor's high profile, Noah’s election was secured through a democratic process within the party. Her leadership is expected to signal both continuity in the party's core mission and a potential shift in its tactical approach to opposition politics. The shift to female leadership is seen as a strategic move that could redefine the party's engagement with the Cameroonian electorate. The elective congress was notably held under a cloud of administrative pressure, with reports indicating that local authorities attempted to block or ban the meeting from taking place. The MRC has frequently faced such hurdles, including the prohibition of public demonstrations and the arrest of party members. By successfully holding the congress and electing a new leader despite these obstacles, the party has demonstrated its organizational resilience. The ability of the MRC to conduct internal elections under such conditions is a critical component of its claim to being a democratic alternative in the region. As the new president, Noah’s immediate challenges will involve unifying various factions within the party and expanding its reach ahead of upcoming national elections. Political analysts suggest that having a female leader could broaden the MRC's appeal among women and youth, two demographics that are increasingly vocal about the need for political reform in Cameroon. The international community and local observers will be monitoring Noah’s first actions as president to gauge how the MRC will navigate its relationship with other opposition groups and the long-standing administration of President Paul Biya.