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.

Mahama Administration Maintains Inherited Salary Structure for Presidential Staff Amid Debates on Government Size
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Mahama Administration Maintains Inherited Salary Structure for Presidential Staff Amid Debates on Government Size

The Government of Ghana has officially dismissed allegations that President John Mahama has increased the salaries of presidential staff and Article 71 office holders. During the Government Accountability Series, Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, clarified that the current remuneration framework was established under the previous Akufo-Addo administration. He emphasized that under the 1992 Constitution, any salary review requires the formation of a specific committee by the President, a step Mahama has not taken since assuming office. Instead, the current salaries were approved by Parliament in January 2025 based on prior recommendations, and the Finance Ministry is currently processing arrears for appointees from the 2021-2024 period rather than implementing new pay hikes. The administration's clarification follows a period of intense public scrutiny regarding the size and cost of the Presidency. While the government reports that the number of political appointees at Jubilee House has decreased from 357 to 233, critics such as Damongo MP Samuel Abdulai Jinapor have raised concerns over a projected surge in the compensation bill. Budgetary figures indicate that the Office of the President's compensation costs are expected to rise from ""100 million in 2025 to ""248 million in 2026. Jinapor has urged civil society organizations to conduct a thorough assessment of the administration's true cost, suggesting that the reduction in ministerial numbers does not fully account for the total salary burden of various presidential staffers and advisors. In response to these concerns, the government maintains that the rise in projected compensation is linked to the settlement of outstanding obligations and the classification of staff. Kwakye Ofosu noted that the total staffing of 808 includes over 500 civil servants who are not political appointees and thus do not impact the political compensation bill. To address long-term concerns about salary disparities and transparency, President Mahama has signaled support for creating an independent emoluments body. This proposed entity would take the responsibility of determining public sector compensation out of the direct control of the executive, aligning with recommendations from the Constitution Review Commission to ensure a more balanced and fair pay structure for Article 71 office holders.

President Mahama Announces Procurement Reforms as Government Rebuts Road Contract Allegations
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President Mahama Announces Procurement Reforms as Government Rebuts Road Contract Allegations

The Ghanaian government has strongly dismissed allegations of widespread procurement abuse within the Ministry of Roads and Highways, asserting that over 90% of road contracts were awarded through competitive tendering. Speaking at a Government Accountability Series in Accra, Minister of State for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu revealed that of the 1,441 road contracts awarded between 2025 and 2026, 1,301 underwent open bidding processes. This rebuttal follows an investigative report by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and The Fourth Estate, which alleged that the government’s flagship "Big Push" infrastructure initiative was dominated by sole-sourced contracts. While the government admitted that 47.14% of "Big Push" projects were sole-sourced, it maintained these represented only a small fraction (4.58%) of the total road sector awards and were justified by urgent national needs. In response to the scrutiny, President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned a comprehensive 72-page investigative report and introduced a series of procurement reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. These measures include the establishment of a Value for Money (VFM) Office, which will provide mandatory certification for all major single-source contracts to ensure optimal public spending. Furthermore, the President has mandated that large-scale sole-sourced deals receive Cabinet approval and be published on a centralized electronic procurement platform, disclosing the beneficial owners of the contracted companies. Although an internal review concluded that the Ministry had not breached the Public Procurement Act, the government emphasized that these reforms are necessary to prevent technical analysis from being bypassed during the execution of urgent infrastructure projects. The debate over infrastructure spending and oversight is also playing out in the judiciary, as lawyers for former officials involved in the Accra Sky Train project seek a dismissal of charges related to an alleged $2 million financial loss. Counsel for Solomon Asamoah, former CEO of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), and Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi argued in the High Court that the loss was a direct result of the global COVID-19 pandemic rather than criminal negligence or lack of board approval. The defense contends that the investment was an equity stake and that project delays were caused by unforeseen global disruptions. Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay is expected to rule on the submission of no case by late June 2026, marking a critical juncture in the state’s efforts to monitor large-scale investment projects. These events highlight a period of intense institutional self-correction and external monitoring within Ghana’s political landscape. Amidst these discussions on fiscal discipline and legal accountability, the Presidency also observed traditional milestones, with President Mahama presiding over the 48th Ceremonial Guards Changing Parade where the Ghana Navy assumed security duties from the Ghana Army. As the government prepares to release the full 72-page procurement report for public examination, the administration faces the dual challenge of accelerating infrastructure development while satisfying the rigorous transparency demands of civil society organizations like the MFWA, which continues to challenge the accuracy of the government's tendering figures.

Chairman Wontumi Appoints Samuel Atta Akyea as Lead Counsel Following Court Rejection of Lawyer’s Withdrawal Bid
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Chairman Wontumi Appoints Samuel Atta Akyea as Lead Counsel Following Court Rejection of Lawyer’s Withdrawal Bid

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has appointed former Abuakwa South Member of Parliament, Samuel Atta Akyea, as his new lead defense counsel. This transition occurs at a critical juncture in the criminal proceedings involving Akonta Mining Company Limited and its owner. On June 15, 2026, an Accra High Court dismissed an application by Wontumi’s previous lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, who sought formal permission to withdraw from the case. The court, upholding an objection from the Attorney-General, ruled that such a motion lacked a legal basis in criminal procedure, as lawyers do not require court approval to terminate representation. Despite this ruling, the change in counsel proceeded, with Atta Akyea emphasizing that his appointment aims to prevent a legal vacuum and ensure a robust defense as the trial nears its conclusion. Developing the narrative behind the legal shift, Atta Akyea clarified that Andy Appiah-Kubi’s departure was voluntary and stemmed from dissatisfaction with the court’s management of the proceedings, rather than a dismissal. The High Court has since extended the deadline for the filing of final written addresses to late June 2026, while maintaining the high-stakes judgment date of July 3, 2026. This specific case centers on alleged illegal mining activities linked to Akonta Mining, a matter that has generated intense public interest and significant legal scrutiny. Wontumi has reaffirmed his commitment to the legal process, stressing the presumption of innocence and his constitutional right to choose his legal representation. Parallel to the mining case, Chairman Wontumi faces further legal pressure regarding a GH¢30 million loan from Exim Bank. Allegations have surfaced involving the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and a criminal trial concerning potential fraud, forged documents, and a financial loss to the state estimated at over GH¢24 million. Reports indicate that the NPP Chairman has filed for a plea bargain in this matter, following findings that no equipment was actually purchased with the loan funds as originally agreed. The dual legal battles have created a complex landscape for the regional chairman, as the prosecution alleges that submitted receipts were fraudulent. The implications of these trials extend into the political sphere, raising questions about Wontumi’s future within the NPP. Kwasi Kwarteng, a spokesperson for presidential aspirant Kennedy Agyapong, recently revealed that Agyapong had questioned Wontumi directly about the Exim Bank saga following his detention by EOCO. Kwarteng suggested that if Wontumi is convicted or enters a plea bargain that results in a criminal record, he could face ineligibility for future leadership positions within the party. As the July judgment approaches, the outcome of these cases is expected to have a profound impact on both Wontumi's personal liberty and his long-term political career in Ghana.

Sophia Akuffo Resigns from Council of State: President Mahama Accepts Departure After Nine-Month Delay
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Sophia Akuffo Resigns from Council of State: President Mahama Accepts Departure After Nine-Month Delay

The Ghanaian government has officially confirmed the resignation of former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo from the Council of State. President John Dramani Mahama accepted her departure, which was initially tendered in September 2025, following a months-long delay intended to allow for internal mediation. Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, disclosed that while the former Chief Justice did not provide a specific reason for her exit in her formal letter, the President eventually moved forward with the acceptance after the Council of State confirmed that her decision was final and her grievances, if any, could not be resolved through further engagement. The circumstances surrounding the resignation have sparked significant debate within Ghana’s political landscape. Reports suggest that Justice Akuffo had ceased attending Council meetings shortly after submitting her resignation last year. Her departure follows a period of reported internal friction, specifically concerning a dissenting opinion she held during a council vote related to the controversial removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Former Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Nii Kwartei Glover described the move as a "dent on government," suggesting that Akuffo’s exit reflects broader unease with current governance issues and judicial integrity. In response to these claims, the government has moved to manage the narrative. Felix Kwakye Ofosu dismissed links between Akuffo’s resignation and Justice Torkornoo’s removal as purely speculative and lacking evidence. He emphasized that the former Chief Justice is known for her outspoken nature and would have likely communicated her reasons clearly if they were intended as a protest. However, this has not silenced critics. Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has criticized the administration for a lack of transparency, demanding an apology for the delayed disclosure of the resignation and calling for the immediate public release of the resignation letter to prevent further speculation and maintain public trust. As the administration begins the constitutional process to appoint a successor, the vacancy highlights the critical role of the Council of State in advising the presidency. Under the 1992 Constitution, the Council is required to include a former Chief Justice, making the appointment of a replacement a matter of both procedural and legal urgency. The government has indicated that the search for a successor is already underway and is expected to conclude in the coming weeks, even as the political fallout from Akuffo's departure continues to raise questions about the relationship between the executive and the judiciary.

EC Leadership Transition: Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare Resigns as Samuel Tettey Retires
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EC Leadership Transition: Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare Resigns as Samuel Tettey Retires

Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) is set for a significant leadership transition following the resignation of Deputy Commissioner in charge of Corporate Services, Dr. Bossman Eric Asare, and the retirement of his colleague, Samuel Tettey, the Deputy Commissioner for Operations. The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during a press briefing on June 15, 2026. Dr. Asare’s resignation is officially effective July 31, 2026, marking the end of a tenure that began in 2018. The departure of two out of the three top officials at the EC creates a critical juncture for the country's electoral management body as it prepares for future administrative cycles. Dr. Bossman Asare is stepping down voluntarily to return to academia at the University of Ghana’s Department of Political Science. During his tenure, Dr. Asare often defended the independence of the Commission against allegations of mismanagement and criticisms regarding political neutrality. Despite past calls from various quarters for his removal, Minister Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the government played no role in his exit, stating that the legal frameworks for the removal of a commissioner were never invoked. Dr. Asare reportedly communicated his decision directly to President John Dramani Mahama, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation. Simultaneously, Samuel Tettey has reached the compulsory retirement age, necessitating his departure from the role of Deputy Commissioner for Operations. Unlike the voluntary nature of Dr. Asare’s exit, Mr. Tettey’s transition is described as a routine institutional process based on age and length of service. To ensure continuity within the Commission, the government has already initiated the constitutional process to fill the looming vacancies. A nominee to succeed Mr. Tettey has already been submitted to the Council of State for consideration and approval, while the process for replacing Dr. Asare is expected to follow shortly. Political analysts have weighed in on the developments, with Dr. Jonathan Asante Otchere noting that the timing of these exits appears well-considered and lacks signs of external political pressure. He suggested that the staggered nature of the departures—particularly Dr. Asare’s notice period—points toward a planned transition rather than a reactionary move. As the Council of State reviews the new nominees, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity and operational stability of the Electoral Commission. The public and political stakeholders now await the official confirmation of the new leadership team that will oversee Ghana's future electoral processes.

Political Accountability and Religious Ethics Take Center Stage in Ghana's National Discourse
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Political Accountability and Religious Ethics Take Center Stage in Ghana's National Discourse

Ghana's current political landscape is undergoing intense scrutiny as legal proceedings involving high-profile figures coincide with growing concerns over the role of religious rhetoric in national affairs. Central to this discourse are recent discussions on JoyNews' "Newsfile," which highlighted the plea bargain of Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, and the ongoing legal struggles of former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe. Simultaneously, David Kojo Kyei, the producer-turned-pastor known as Kaywa, has issued a stern warning against the misuse of prophetic ministry for public displays, particularly as the nation prepares for future electoral cycles. The "Newsfile" panel, which included legal and political experts such as Arthur Kobina Kennedy and James Kwabena Bomfeh Jnr., delved into the complexities of Ghana's judicial and governance systems. A major point of contention remains the plea deal involving Chairman Wontumi and the sentencing of Sedina Tamakloe, which continue to spark debate over institutional accountability. Furthermore, the standoff at the Afari Military Hospital was identified as a critical failure in healthcare infrastructure management, reflecting broader challenges in completing and operationalizing state projects. These issues, coupled with varying evaluations of President John Mahama’s administration, underscore a deeply polarized but active public sphere seeking transparency and efficiency. Complementing these governance concerns is the ethical dimension of religious influence in Ghanaian politics. Pastor Kaywa, speaking on Channel One TV, emphasized that the prophetic ministry should focus on edifying the Church rather than being used as a tool for public performance or political prediction. He cautioned against "arrogant" deliveries of prophetic messages, noting that while national issues are within the realm of spiritual concern, the sanctity of the message must not be sacrificed for political visibility. This warning is particularly relevant given the historical trend of religious leaders making bold electoral predictions that often heighten tensions during election years. As Ghana navigates these multifaceted challenges, the intersection of legal accountability, infrastructure development, and the ethical use of religious platforms remains a defining feature of the national identity. The synthesis of these issues suggests a country at a crossroads, where the demand for structural reform in the health and justice sectors meets a call for greater humility and responsibility from its spiritual leaders. Moving forward, the effectiveness of plea bargains and the resolution of hospital standoffs will likely serve as benchmarks for the government's commitment to the rule of law and public welfare.

Oti House of Chiefs Launches Nkwanta South Peace Probe as Ketu North MP Demands Justice for Slain Student
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Oti House of Chiefs Launches Nkwanta South Peace Probe as Ketu North MP Demands Justice for Slain Student

The Oti Regional House of Chiefs has moved to address the protracted ethnic disturbances in the Nkwanta South Municipality by announcing the formation of a specialized seven-member committee. Led by the President of the House, Nana Soglo Alloh IV, the committee is tasked with investigating the root causes of recurring conflicts that have plagued the area and proposing actionable measures for sustainable peace. This proactive step follows a consensus reached among traditional leaders and youth representatives from the primary ethnic groups involved, signaling a unified regional approach to restoring order through structured dialogue and traditional mediation. The investigative body will comprise five prominent chiefs and two distinguished local citizens. According to Nana Soglo Alloh IV, the committee's work will focus on identifying specific conflict triggers and recommending solutions to ensure that any peace achieved is enduring. The initiative has received the formal backing of leaders from the Akyode, Adele, and Challa ethnic groups, as well as the Zongo Chiefs. For the committee to operate effectively, the House of Chiefs has called for full cooperation from the community, particularly the youth, and urged the government and corporate organizations to provide the necessary financial and logistical support for the mission in Dambai. In a separate but equally pressing development regarding regional security and justice, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Eric Edem Agbana, has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the tragic death of Innocentia Avinu, a Level 200 student at the University of Cape Coast (UCC). The body of Ms. Avinu, a promising scholarship recipient who went missing from her hostel on June 11, 2026, was discovered on a beach, sparking national concern. Mr. Agbana expressed profound grief over the loss of such a young talent and urged the Ghana Police Service to work closely with university authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice, emphasizing the distress the tragedy has caused her family and the student community. These developments highlight a heightened focus by both traditional and political leadership on stability and justice within the Oti and surrounding regions. While the House of Chiefs concentrates on mediating historical ethnic tensions, political figures like Mr. Agbana are emphasizing the role of state institutions in protecting citizens and investigating violent crimes. The success of these initiatives—ranging from the Nkwanta South peace probe to the pursuit of justice for the UCC student—will largely depend on the transparency of the investigative processes and the continued engagement of both local stakeholders and national security agencies.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Policy Experts Champion Institutionalized Monitoring and Evaluation at Landmark Book Launch
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Policy Experts Champion Institutionalized Monitoring and Evaluation at Landmark Book Launch

On June 10, 2026, the World Bank Country Office in Accra served as the venue for the high-profile launch of the book, Political Economy of Institutionalising Monitoring & Evaluation Practice in Africa: 21st Century Perspectives. Authored by Professor Kwaku Appiah-Adu and Mr. Andrew Osei Asibey, the publication provides a comprehensive analysis of the role that monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems play in shaping governance and public policy across the continent. The event highlighted the critical intersection of academic research and practical governance, drawing together leaders from the development and political sectors to discuss the future of African accountability. Keynote speaker and former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, underscored the necessity of robust M&E systems as a foundation for accountable governance. He argued that evidence-based decision-making is no longer optional but a requirement for sustainable development in Africa. This sentiment was supported by the event’s chairman, Mr. Patrick Awuah, who called for a paradigm shift in how governance is practiced. Awuah emphasized that for African nations to thrive, there must be a seamless integration of technological advancements and effective institutional frameworks that prioritize transparency and data-driven insights. A central theme of the new book is the transition of M&E from a mere compliance-driven exercise to a dynamic tool for learning and strategic policy adjustments. The authors explore how institutionalizing these practices can help governments move beyond rhetoric to measurable impact. By examining the political economy of these systems, Appiah-Adu and Asibey offer stakeholders a framework for embedding evidence-based practices into public administration. This approach is intended to foster a culture where data informs every stage of policy development, ensuring more efficient resource allocation and better outcomes for citizens. The ceremony concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to engage with the book’s findings to drive meaningful institutional reform. The event was further enriched by cultural performances, including musical interludes by Mr. Stephen Aidoo Borsah, which complemented the serious nature of the policy discussions. As the book enters the public domain, it is expected to serve as a vital resource for stimulating dialogue on accountability and institutional strengthening, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of sustainable development and good governance across the African continent.

James Victor Gbeho, Veteran Diplomat and Former ECOWAS Commission President, Dies at 91
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James Victor Gbeho, Veteran Diplomat and Former ECOWAS Commission President, Dies at 91

Ghana is in mourning following the passing of Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, a distinguished statesman and veteran diplomat who died on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the age of 91. Family sources confirmed that the former Minister for Foreign Affairs passed away in a hospital, marking the end of a career that spanned over five decades and significantly shaped Ghana’s international standing. Known for his profound intellect and diplomatic finesse, Gbeho was a central figure in both domestic politics and regional governance across West Africa. Gbeho’s political journey was highlighted by his service as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2001. Following his ministerial tenure, he transitioned to the legislature, serving as a Member of Parliament from 2001 to 2005. His expertise extended far beyond national borders; as Ghana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, he championed African interests on the global stage, earning a reputation as a principled and effective negotiator during some of the continent's most challenging diplomatic periods. Perhaps his most influential international role was as the President of the ECOWAS Commission from 2010 to 2012. During this period, he played a pivotal role in strengthening regional integration and spearheading peacebuilding initiatives within the sub-region. The ECOWAS Commission has expressed its condolences, remembering him as a leader whose commitment to West African unity was unwavering. His tenure is widely cited as a period of significant diplomatic activity focused on resolving regional conflicts and fostering economic cooperation among member states. Born on January 12, 1935, in Keta, Volta Region, Ambassador Gbeho carried a rich cultural and historical legacy. He was the son of Philip Gbeho, the renowned composer of Ghana’s national anthem, and was the uncle of a prominent broadcaster. This heritage of excellence was reflected in his lifelong dedication to public service. As the news of his passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from across the political spectrum and the international diplomatic community. While the family has confirmed his passing, official funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, as the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most respected elder statesmen.

Ghanaian Government Faces Mounting Pressure Over Child Welfare Crisis, Industrial Stagnation, and Utility Grievances
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Ghanaian Government Faces Mounting Pressure Over Child Welfare Crisis, Industrial Stagnation, and Utility Grievances

The Ghanaian government is facing a surge of demands for intervention across multiple sectors, ranging from urgent human rights concerns to industrial disputes and utility service failures. Leading the calls for action, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has issued a stark warning regarding the country’s escalating child labor crisis. Commemorating the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour, CHRAJ revealed that over 1.1 million children aged 5–17 are currently engaged in economic activities, with approximately 458,000 of them forced out of school. The Commission characterized the situation as a violation of human dignity and a systemic failure to uphold constitutional protections, urging a national commitment to dismantle the poverty traps that fuel this crisis. In the industrial sector, the Sugarcane Farmers Association of Ghana (SUFAG) has temporarily suspended a planned demonstration against the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry following interventions from political and traditional leaders. The association expressed deep frustration over the continued inactivity of the Komenda Sugar Factory, which has remained largely non-operational since its 2016 commissioning. While SUFAG has opted for dialogue for now, they have issued a firm deadline of July 31, 2026, for the government to present a clear operational plan. Simultaneously, timber traders, represented by Edem Koko Edem, have appealed to the Chief of Staff to resolve ongoing challenges with the Forestry Commission and security agencies, warning that the current difficulties in transporting products are threatening livelihoods and political goodwill. Public frustration has also boiled over in the Volta Region, where over 200 residents of Sogakope staged a peaceful but firm protest at the local Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) office. Organized by the Concerned Citizens of Sogakope, the demonstrators presented a petition detailing grievances over persistent overbilling, inaccurate meter readings, and poor customer service. Spokesperson Bernard Cudjoe highlighted cases where bills surged to as high as GHS10,000, calling for transparency and accountability. The residents have given the ECG a three-month ultimatum to rectify these billing issues, threatening further demonstrations and potential protests at Jubilee House if their demands for fair service are not met. Amidst these grassroots and industrial pressures, policy advocates are also pushing for structural budget reforms to address long-term development goals. During a SIGRA-Ministry of Finance workshop, advisor Elham Mumuni emphasized the need for significantly increased budgetary allocations for gender equality and climate action. While acknowledging some progress, experts noted that substantial financial gaps remain in integrating climate and gender finance into national planning. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are now compiling a communiqu urging the Ministry of Finance to ensure that upcoming budgets more accurately reflect the priorities of vulnerable communities and environmental sustainability. These converging issues highlight a critical period for national governance, as the administration must balance immediate utility and industrial grievances with the long-term necessity of protecting human rights and environmental health. The recurring theme across these sectors is a demand for greater accountability and more efficient resource management. Whether through the enforcement of child protection laws, the revitalization of state-funded factories, or the reform of utility billing practices, the government's response over the coming months will be instrumental in maintaining social stability and driving equitable development.

Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo and Emefa Donkor Under Scrutiny as Ghana Moves to Strengthen Institutional Accountability
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Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo and Emefa Donkor Under Scrutiny as Ghana Moves to Strengthen Institutional Accountability

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, and the Chairperson of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Gertrude Emefa Donkor, are currently at the center of intense legal and regulatory scrutiny, highlighting a broader national push for accountability within Ghana’s public sector. The Adentan High Court recently ordered that Minister Ocloo be served with a motion for contempt of court after she allegedly ignored a judicial injunction regarding land development for the relocation of the Dodowa Market. The case, brought by applicant Bernard Oduro, asserts that the Minister willfully disobeyed court orders by continuing site work under the guise of a ‘national assignment.’ Ocloo is required to appear in court on June 24, 2026, to explain her actions, a move that underscores the judiciary’s increasing intolerance for executive overreach. Simultaneously, Sammy Awuku, the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, has formally contested the legality of Gertrude Emefa Donkor’s dual role as both GTA Chairperson and Managing Director of GoldBod Jewellery. Awuku argues that this appointment violates the Tourism Act of 2011, which mandates that the GTA Chair must be a representative of the private sector. Because GoldBod Jewellery is a state-owned enterprise, Awuku maintains that Donkor’s public sector leadership disqualifies her from the GTA role. The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the concentration of strategic roles in single individuals and the necessity of adhering to legislative frameworks to ensure transparency and equitable job opportunities within the tourism industry. In a proactive step toward systemic reform, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced plans to establish an ‘Auditors’ Court’ to tackle persistent audit infractions and enhance the management of public resources. Speaking during the inauguration of a new Governing Board for the Internal Audit Agency (IAA), Dr. Forson emphasized the urgent need for stricter sanctions against ineffective auditors and the curbing of financial waste. The newly formed board, chaired by Professor Joshua Yindenaba Abor, is tasked with developing strategies to improve public sector governance and financial discipline, aiming to restore taxpayer confidence by ensuring that those responsible for managing the public purse are held to the highest standards. These individual cases and policy proposals are set against a backdrop of increasing activism from civil society and institutional stakeholders seeking better governance. A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has recently demanded independent investigations into port contracts and revenue systems, such as ICUMS, to address perceived lacks of transparency. Additionally, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) is proposing a legislative transformation into a Meteorological Authority to enhance climate resilience and regulatory oversight. Together, these developments signal a pivotal moment in Ghana’s political landscape, where the intersections of legal accountability, administrative reform, and the rule of law are increasingly defining the operations of public institutions.

Asenso-Boakye Advocates for National Flood Fund Amid Project Disruptions and Koforidua Security Crackdown
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Asenso-Boakye Advocates for National Flood Fund Amid Project Disruptions and Koforidua Security Crackdown

Ghana’s ongoing struggle with seasonal flooding has moved to the forefront of national discourse as heavy rains disrupt major infrastructure projects and trigger security interventions. Francis Asenso-Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama and Ranking Member on the Local Government and Decentralisation Committee, has formally urged the government to significantly increase investment in flood control initiatives. His call for the establishment of a National Flood Control Fund comes as multiple regions face the immediate consequences of poor drainage and heavy rainfall, highlighting a systemic need for infrastructure resilience and stricter regulatory enforcement to protect lives and property. In the Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam District, the ambitious ‘Big Push’ project—a major 111-kilometre road rehabilitation effort—has hit a critical bottleneck due to unusually early rains that began in May. Construction firms E-Speedway Construction Limited and General Construction and Development Limited have been forced to suspend earthworks as muddy and slippery conditions render heavy machinery non-operational. While project managers report that nearly 98% of preparatory work is complete, the overflowing Amissah Okye river and persistent flooding have hindered progress, severing access to communities like Ajumako Amia and complicating compensation discussions for residents whose buildings were demolished to make way for the road expansions. Parallel to these weather-driven delays, security agencies have taken drastic measures to enforce public safety standards in the Eastern Region. A joint operation involving National Security, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the Ghana Police Service led to the arrest of six individuals at the China Mall construction site in Koforidua. The developers reportedly defied a stop-work order from the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) aimed at addressing the project's negative impact on local drainage systems. Eastern Regional National Security Coordinator Francis Annoh-Dompreh emphasized that the site has been declared a restricted zone, noting that the developers failed to complete mandatory drainage reconstruction required to prevent worsening floods in the surrounding area. These developments underscore the criticisms leveled by Mr. Asenso-Boakye regarding the politicization of flood management and the failure of past administrations to implement lasting solutions. He emphasized that addressing the crisis requires a multi-faceted approach involving public education, stricter enforcement of planning regulations by local assemblies, and an end to improper waste disposal. As project managers in Ajumako vow to resume work once weather permits, the broader political challenge remains: establishing a sustainable financial and regulatory framework to protect Ghanaian communities from the increasingly predictable devastation of the rainy season.