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.

PAC Refers Former Defence Official for Prosecution as Ghana Escalates Accountability Drive Across Ministries
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PAC Refers Former Defence Official for Prosecution as Ghana Escalates Accountability Drive Across Ministries

Ghana’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended the prosecution of Frank Oliver Kpodo, a former Director of Procurement at the Ministry of Defence, following a high-stakes hearing into a GH¢4.8 million procurement scandal. Kpodo is accused of falsifying documents related to the purchase of six vehicles intended for monitoring the 2024 General Elections—vehicles that the Auditor-General confirmed were never supplied despite the issuance of store receipt vouchers. During the session, Committee Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare and Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor rejected Kpodo’s claims that the vehicles were initially delivered but later removed by the supplier due to payment delays. Consequently, Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills has officially referred the matter to the Attorney-General, emphasizing that the lack of accountability in such high-value transactions will no longer be tolerated. Parallel to the procurement probe, the government is facing intense criticism over the 'Tax for Galamsey' scandal, where district assemblies were found to be collecting levies from illegal miners. Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu defended the decision not to sanction Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), arguing that the collections were based on flawed 'institutional arrangements' rather than individual misconduct. This stance has drawn sharp rebukes from civil society leaders like Kenneth Ashigbey of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining and Awula Serwah of Eco-Conscious Citizens. They contend that collecting fees from illegal activities is a criminal violation of Act 995 and have called for immediate legal consequences rather than the government's proposed 'retraining' approach. The PAC sittings further exposed significant financial discrepancies across several other state agencies. Questions were raised regarding GH¢21 million spent on renovating Black Star Square for the 67th Independence Day celebration, despite the event being relocated to the Eastern Region. Additionally, the committee rejected GH¢91.8 million in reported arrears from the Ministry of Trade and Industry due to a lack of verifiable evidence. In a more positive development for the state, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem announced that Rans Logistics has refunded GH¢19.1 million following an audit into overpayments for grain transportation, marking a small victory in the effort to validate the nation's GH¢68 billion debt arrears. In response to these systemic lapses, government leadership is introducing stricter fiscal controls and oversight protocols. Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has issued a directive that he will no longer accept accountability for financial transactions that bypass his office, mandating that all agency requests must be signed by heads of departments to prevent duplication and fraud. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Finance is preparing a new Loans Act to tighten controls on public borrowing, linking future debt strictly to high-impact investments. These measures aim to restore market credibility and ensure sustainable fiscal management as the country prepares for significant debt maturities in the coming years. Despite these reforms, the political atmosphere remains tense with ongoing legal and institutional disputes. Former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame has threatened a defamation lawsuit against Felix Kwakye Ofosu over claims regarding illegal mining reports, while the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) has questioned the government's sincerity in fighting corruption. The IERPP highlighted a contradiction in the government's passing of the Governance Advisory Council bill while simultaneously blocking investigations into $214 million in alleged losses at GoldBod. As these investigations and legislative changes unfold, the focus remains on whether these actions will translate into genuine accountability or remain mere procedural exercises.

President John Mahama
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President Mahama Signs Landmark Legislation, Probes Procurement Concerns, and Launches Major Health Reform

In a flurry of executive action at the Jubilee House, President John Dramani Mahama has signed five significant bills into law and announced the official launch of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme for April 15, 2026. The newly assented laws include the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, which restores the name of the National Intelligence Bureau (BNI) and reshapes oversight of security services, and the Growth and Sustainability Levy (Amendment) Act, which reduces the mining levy from 3% to 1%. Additionally, the President signed the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Act, establishing a new multi-campus institution in the Eastern Region, and amended the Ghana Deposit Protection Act to extend financial safety nets to mobile money wallets and digital platforms. These legislative milestones are part of a broader government strategy to stabilize the economy, enhance national security, and modernize education. Simultaneously, President Mahama engaged in a high-stakes dialogue with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to address mounting concerns regarding transparency and accountability. Central to these discussions was an order for the Ministry of Roads and Highways to respond to allegations of unmerited sole-sourcing in road contracts valued at GH"73 billion under the ‘Big Push’ infrastructure program. The President requested a full report from The Fourth Estate to guide further investigations, emphasizing his commitment to competitive pricing and a proposed amendment to the Public Procurement Act to limit single sourcing. During the same engagement, Mahama refrained from commenting on the pending extradition request for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, noting that the case must proceed through the United States legal system while Ghana fulfills the necessary documentation requirements. Social protection and human rights also took center stage as the government reaffirmed its commitment to vulnerable populations. The President urged the swift passage of the Anti-Witchcraft Bill to criminalize the abuse of elderly women and defended his call for slavery reparations, dismissing criticisms by likening the slave trade to the Holocaust. In parallel, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection launched the National Shock-Responsive Social Protection Strategy and announced the upcoming creation of a ‘Women’s Development Bank.’ This new financial institution aims to provide collateral-free loans and business development services to female entrepreneurs, who currently lead 44% of Ghana’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. The Ministry also conducted a comprehensive review of the National Plan of Action for the Elimination of Human Trafficking, prioritizing prevention and protection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On the economic and security front, the government is preparing to shield consumers from rising global fuel costs by potentially reviewing marketing margins and the one-cedi development levy. Addressing labor concerns, the President announced a decentralized, district-based recruitment system for teachers and health workers to curb urban migration and ensure rural staffing. This reform includes a review of security service recruitment fees after nearly 280,000 applicants vied for limited positions. As the first session of the ninth parliament concluded, Majority Leader Maham Ayariga lauded these executive and legislative efforts, particularly the passage of the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, as vital steps toward reducing youth unemployment and achieving national transformation. These combined initiatives reflect a government moving to balance rapid infrastructure development with rigorous institutional reform and social equity.

Kissi Agyebeng Urges Civil Society to Safeguard OSP Amid Growing Political Pressure and Existential Threats
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Kissi Agyebeng Urges Civil Society to Safeguard OSP Amid Growing Political Pressure and Existential Threats

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has issued a passionate plea to civil society organizations and the Ghanaian public to safeguard the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), warning that the institution faces significant existential threats from political actors. Speaking at a National Dialogue, Agyebeng revealed that the OSP is increasingly viewed as "bad news" by politicians who perceive its accountability mandate as a direct threat to their interests. This call for protection comes at a critical juncture as Agyebeng disclosed he has begun "counting his days" toward the end of his tenure, emphasizing that the institution’s survival must transcend the term of any individual officeholder and the goodwill of any sitting president. The Office has recently navigated a tumultuous period, with Agyebeng describing 2025 as the OSP's most challenging year due to persistent legal and political hurdles. These challenges included a Private Member’s Bill drafted by the Majority in Parliament aimed at repealing the OSP Act, a move that was reportedly suspended only after intervention by President John Dramani Mahama. Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante of CDD-Ghana echoed these concerns, noting that the OSP faces a level of scrutiny and "disproportionate attacks" not directed at other investigative bodies like the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). This disparity, according to Asante, reveals a contradiction in the state's commitment to fighting corruption, where independent mechanisms are often championed during elections but undermined once they begin to function effectively. Despite these constraints, proponents of the office highlight a record of notable progress. Edem Senanu, Chairperson of the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption, argued that the OSP has performed creditably, managing approximately 67 cases with several successful completions. He emphasized that the office's value should be measured not just by convictions but by its deterrent effect on public officials. Public confidence remains remarkably high, with data indicating that over 70% of Ghanaians support the OSP’s independence from the Attorney-General’s office. However, Samuel Appiah-Darko observed that the OSP still struggles with public perception issues because it has lacked the opportunity to communicate its achievements effectively, allowing negative political narratives to occasionally dominate the discourse. To ensure the OSP’s long-term effectiveness, Agyebeng is advocating for robust constitutional protections that would shield the office from the whims of shifting political administrations. He stressed that the independence of the Special Prosecutor must be anchored in a framework that allows future officeholders to focus on their mandate of fighting corruption rather than their own professional survival. As the OSP prepares for an eventual leadership transition, the consensus among governance experts and the Special Prosecutor himself is clear: without active ownership and defense by civil society, Ghana risks reverting to a weaker, less transparent anti-corruption framework that existed prior to 2018.

Getty Images A sea of people hold up signs as they march. All the signs are against the Trump administration and key policies
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Ghana Advances Global Diplomacy and Human Rights Advocacy Amid Rising Middle East Tensions and Domestic Security Threats

Ghana has taken a prominent role on the international stage, advocating for historical justice and equitable trade while navigating the ripple effects of escalating global conflicts. At the United Nations, a Ghana-led resolution declaring the transatlantic slave trade a grave crime against humanity sparked significant diplomatic debate, receiving support from 123 nations but facing opposition from the United States, Israel, and Argentina. The U.S. contended the resolution misinterprets international law, while Israel expressed regret, citing concerns over the hierarchy of historical atrocities. Simultaneously, Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare championed Ghana’s interests at the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon, focusing on food security and the elimination of trade-distorting subsidies. These diplomatic efforts occur alongside bilateral engagements, including the inauguration of the Ghana-Zimbabwe Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation and ongoing trade dialogues with Burkina Faso to resolve tomato export suspensions affecting local markets. The global political landscape is further complicated by intensifying tensions between the United States and Iran, which have begun to impact regional stability and global energy markets. President Donald Trump has sparked international discussion by suggesting a renaming of the Strait of Hormuz to the "Strait of Trump" and contemplating military action against Iran’s Kharg Island oil terminal. This volatility follows the destruction of a U.S. radar jet at a Saudi Arabian base and a foiled bomb attack on a Bank of America office in Paris, which French officials suggest may be linked to Iranian proxies. The conflict’s economic reach is evident in Egypt, where shops have been ordered to close early due to an energy crisis, and in Australia, where governments are halving fuel taxes and offering free public transport to mitigate skyrocketing petrol prices linked to the Middle East blockade. Domestically, the Ghana Police Service has intensified its crackdown on cyber-related political interference, arresting suspects involved in creating AI-generated deepfake videos of President John Dramani Mahama and the First Lady used to solicit fraudulent funds. DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi warned that the circulation of such manipulated content is a criminal offense under Ghanaian law. In the legal sphere, the high-profile trial of Menzgold CEO Nana Appiah Mensah (NAM1) continues with orders for remote defense due to health grounds, while the judiciary celebrated the enrollment of 155 new lawyers. On the political front, Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu received high-level visits from the Ya-Naa and Ahmadiyya leadership following his recovery from a car accident, signaling strong traditional and religious support for his leadership. Across the African continent, strategic political shifts are taking shape as Nigeria’s opposition coalition gains momentum with heavyweight Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joining the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, former President Nana Akufo-Addo has been appointed to lead the ECOWAS election observation mission to Benin, highlighting Ghana’s continued role in promoting regional democratic stability. These developments, ranging from the arrest of senior military officers in Uganda for corruption to the mourning of former Algerian President Liamine Zeroual, underscore a period of profound transition. As Ghana manages its domestic security and legal reforms, its leadership remains pivotal in bridging the divide between the Global South’s moral imperatives and the complex realities of modern international diplomacy and security.

Ghana's National Agenda: Parliamentary Adjournment, Infrastructure Push, and Economic Resets Drive Political Landscape
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Ghana's National Agenda: Parliamentary Adjournment, Infrastructure Push, and Economic Resets Drive Political Landscape

Ghana’s political and legislative landscape is currently defined by a period of intense strategic realignment and a push for accountability. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin recently adjourned the house sine die, calling on Members of Parliament to "bury absenteeism and lateness" as they return to their constituencies for the Easter break. This legislative pause follows the passage of critical bills, such as the Legal Education Bill, and coincides with high-level calls for the completion of legacy projects. Notably, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged the current administration to prioritize the completion of the 'Agenda 111' hospital initiative, while local representatives like MP Jerry Ahmed Shaib have demanded the immediate operationalization of the nearly completed 120-bed Weija Paediatric Hospital to improve healthcare access in the Greater Accra Region. Governance and public spending have come under increased scrutiny, highlighted by a public dispute between Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah and Asokwa MCE Amoh Kamel over the transparency of borehole project costs, which vary between GH¢80,000 and GH¢100,000. Simultaneously, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has had to defend its regulatory mandate against criticisms of overreach regarding university fee increments. In the economic sector, the government is navigating a two-day ultimatum from commercial transport operators threatening a 20% fare hike if fuel prices are not stabilized. This tension is mirrored in sectoral shifts, such as the Gold Board's transition toward local bullion refining and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s plan to establish 50 Farmer Services Centres nationwide to mechanize production and ensure food security. On the partisan front, both established and new political actors are reorganizing for future contests. The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has inaugurated a seven-member committee to reform its national structures, while the newly launched Action Alliance Party (AAP) has emerged in Wa to challenge the traditional NDC-NPP duopoly with a focus on youth empowerment and anti-corruption. Within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), leadership bids are heating up, with Chairman Wontumi advocating for local language use in grassroots mobilization. Meanwhile, localized development remains a key focus for MPs, ranging from road construction in Dome Kwabenya to furniture donations in Ellembelle, signaling a multi-front effort to address constituent needs ahead of the next electoral cycle. These developments underscore a national mood focused on translating policy into tangible improvements in healthcare, infrastructure, and economic stability.

President of the Ghana Institute of Architects - Mr Tony Asare
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Fatal Building Collapse at Accra New Town Triggers Calls for Urgent Structural Audits and Stricter Enforcement

Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has visited the site of a tragic building collapse at the Accra New Town Experimental School, where three people lost their lives and over 20 others were injured. The structure, which was part of an abandoned Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) project dating back to 2012, collapsed during a gathering on a Sunday. The Vice President, accompanied by government officials and emergency responders, extended her condolences to the bereaved families and visited the 37 Military Hospital to check on those receiving treatment. She assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the disaster and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting the victims. In the immediate aftermath, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ayawaso Central, Rudolph Collingwood-Williams, ordered a halt to all church activities on school premises to ensure public safety, citing the need for technical assessments before structures can be cleared for use. However, the response efforts were met with controversy as former Interior and Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey accused security agencies of politicizing the rescue mission after he was reportedly barred from the site. From a legal perspective, private practitioner Lom Nuku Ahlijah has clarified that victims have the right to pursue civil action for compensation concurrently with the state's criminal prosecution, emphasizing that public institutions like GETFund must be held accountable for safety standards. Professional bodies and safety experts have pointed to systemic regulatory failures as the root cause of such tragedies. Mr. Tony Asare, President of the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA), warned that using uncompleted buildings for high-vibration activities, such as church services with loud drumming and singing, can compromise structural integrity. He called for mandatory structural audits of buildings left incomplete for extended periods and highlighted a critical shortage of qualified architects within local authorities to oversee construction. The Bureau of Public Safety also criticized the lack of effective emergency protocols and weak enforcement of existing regulations, urging immediate reforms to prevent future occurrences. To address these gaps, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Ghana Chapter is advocating for a mandatory "no certificate, no entry" policy for all multi-storey buildings. IFMA President Sampson Opare-Agyemang emphasized that the Certificate of Occupancy is a vital safety guarantee that is often ignored despite being required by the 2018 Ghana Building Code. As stakeholders call for a nationwide review of abandoned projects and construction materials quality, the focus remains on bridging the gap between legislative standards and ground-level enforcement to protect citizens from avoidable structural failures.

President Mahama Orders Probe into GH¢73bn 'Big Push' Contracts as Ghana Tightens Fiscal and Procurement Controls
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President Mahama Orders Probe into GH¢73bn 'Big Push' Contracts as Ghana Tightens Fiscal and Procurement Controls

President John Dramani Mahama has directed his office to obtain a comprehensive investigative report from The Fourth Estate regarding the 'Big Push' road projects, following allegations of significant procurement irregularities. The report claims that Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, oversaw the awarding of 81 sole-sourced contracts valued at over GH¢73 billion within a seven-month period. During a dialogue with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at Jubilee House, President Mahama underscored the necessity of transparent, competitive tenders to ensure value for money. He announced plans to amend the Public Procurement Act to limit the use of sole sourcing and has tasked the Ministry of Finance with establishing an Independent Value for Money Office to oversee single-source procurements. Adding to the government's reform agenda, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced the introduction of a new Loans Act. This legislation is designed to enhance fiscal discipline by ensuring that all future public borrowing is strictly tied to high-impact, value-for-money investments. The move follows the signing of Ghana’s 11th bilateral debt restructuring agreement with the Export-Import Bank of India. While the government emphasizes these reforms as a path to debt sustainability, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has clarified through spokesperson Sammy Gyamfi that it does not intend to abolish sole sourcing entirely, but rather to curb its abuse and ensure its application is reserved for exceptional circumstances. In Parliament, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has seen heated sessions involving Ketu North MP Eric Edem Agbana and committee leadership. These clashes centered on allegations that grain distribution from national warehouses was disrupted by "party people" following the 2024 elections. While Deputy Minister for Agriculture John Dumelo clarified that the individuals involved were regular citizens, the committee successfully facilitated a GH¢19.1 million refund from Rans Logistics after the Auditor-General flagged overpayments in grain transport. Further scrutiny revealed asset management lapses at the Ministry of Trade, where 47 air conditioners and 16 chairs were reportedly issued without proper documentation, prompting calls for stricter internal controls. Broader accountability issues continue to stir political debate, particularly regarding the Gold-for-Reserves program and the extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. The Majority side of Parliament recently blocked an inquiry into the Gold-for-Reserves program, a decision former Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah labeled as a setback for oversight, citing a reported $214 million loss in 2025. Regarding Ken Ofori-Atta, President Mahama stated that he cannot interfere with the legal proceedings currently under U.S. jurisdiction, where Ofori-Atta is contesting Ghana's extradition request linked to corruption allegations from his 2017-2024 tenure. Finally, the government is navigating challenges in the mining and trade sectors. The Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) reported a record mineral royalty inflow of GH¢5.43 billion, yet stakeholders like the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining are demanding more resources for the National Inter-Ministerial Committee on Small-Scale Mining (NAIMOS) to combat galamsey. Meanwhile, the Freight Forwarders Association of Ghana has initiated legal action against the Ministry of Finance, alleging that the implementation of the Publican AI system for customs valuation violates the Customs Act and lacks transparency. These converging developments highlight a period of intense scrutiny over public funds and the legal frameworks governing Ghana's economic and natural resources.

President Mahama Outlines Bold Reform Agenda and National Resilience at Landmark Dialogue with Civil Society
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President Mahama Outlines Bold Reform Agenda and National Resilience at Landmark Dialogue with Civil Society

President John Dramani Mahama convened a high-level dialogue with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Jubilee House on March 30, 2026, marking a pivotal moment for his administration’s policy direction. During the engagement, the President announced the official rollout of Ghana’s Free Primary Health Care Programme, set to launch on April 15, 2026. This initiative aims to eliminate cost barriers to essential health services and expand access to preventive care nationwide. Mahama emphasized that the participation of civil society is vital for the monitoring and success of such flagship policies, including the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative, as the government seeks to strengthen transparency and accountability in public service. Addressing governance and human rights, President Mahama provided clarity on the sensitive Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, stating that while the issue is emotive, it is not the nation’s most pressing priority compared to urgent needs in education and healthcare. He called for calm and urged that the matter be handled through democratic processes and respect for human rights. To further enhance the democratic framework, the President announced the establishment of a Constitutional Review Implementation Committee (CRIC) to execute long-awaited reforms. Additionally, he pledged to amend the Public Procurement Act to strictly limit single sourcing, a move designed to ensure competitive bidding and value for money in government contracts following concerns raised over procurement practices. On the environmental front, the President intensified the fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey, by calling for a united front with CSOs. He specifically commended an investigative report by JoyNews titled 'Tax for Galamsey,' which exposed district assemblies illegally taxing prohibited mining equipment. Mahama ordered an immediate end to such levies, asserting that revenue generation must never be linked to unlawful activities. He contrasted the environmental degradation in mining areas with the cleanliness of the Volta Region, which he praised as a national model for sanitation. To complement these efforts, he advocated for the reintroduction of civic education in schools to instill discipline and responsible waste management habits in future generations. Turning to national security and infrastructure, the President highlighted Ghana’s growing energy resilience. He noted that strategic investments in domestic natural gas from the ENI Sankofa and Jubilee fields have shielded the country from global energy shocks caused by Middle East tensions. He also announced the modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces, confirmed by the arrival of the first of four new military helicopters. In education, the administration is targeting the elimination of 'schools under trees' by constructing 400 new schools this year and providing one million desks. To ensure equitable distribution of educators, Mahama revealed plans to decentralize teacher recruitment, allowing districts to advertise vacancies based on local needs. The dialogue also served as a celebration of Ghana’s recent diplomatic achievements. President Mahama was welcomed back to a warm reception following the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of a historic resolution, championed by Ghana, recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity. While Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa declined a formal airport ceremony to focus on ongoing work, the administration hailed the resolution as a victory for justice and reparative efforts. The day concluded with the President receiving Letters of Credence from five new envoys, including representatives from China and France, further solidifying Ghana’s bilateral ties and its standing on the global stage.

Ghana’s Parliament Concludes Milestone Session Amid Economic Friction and Legal Reforms
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Ghana’s Parliament Concludes Milestone Session Amid Economic Friction and Legal Reforms

Ghana’s Ninth Parliament has adjourned the first meeting of its second session, marking a period defined by significant legislative achievements and intense partisan debate over national resources. The session saw the passage of the landmark Legal Education Reform Bill, which ends the long-standing monopoly of the Ghana School of Law by allowing accredited universities to offer professional training and introducing a National Bar Examination. Additionally, the house ratified a 15-year lithium mining agreement and passed the Education Regulatory Bodies Bill. Despite these milestones, the meeting ended on a contentious note as the Majority Caucus blocked a Minority-sponsored motion to investigate the ‘Gold-for-Reserves’ scheme. The Minority, citing an International Monetary Fund report of a $214 million loss, labeled the rejection a ‘Golden Betrayal,’ while analysts from IPS-Ghana raised further alarms regarding a potential $1.27 billion financial loss tied to the Bank of Ghana’s gold liquidation and subsequent repurchase plans. Simultaneously, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has shifted its focus toward internal stability and future electoral prospects. General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong announced the deployment of regional heavyweights to oversee grassroots polling station and electoral area elections, emphasizing professionalism to ensure credible results. In the Eastern Region, Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, urged party executives to unite behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 2028 ambitions. However, the political landscape remains fraught with labor concerns; the Ghana Federation of Labour has cautioned workers against a return to NPP policies, citing past hardships under debt exchange programs, while the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has ignited a national dialogue on decolonizing the education system to foster innovation over colonial-era service roles. Infrastructure and public health have also dominated the national agenda. Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and traditional leaders, including the Chancellor of KNUST, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, have called on the current administration to prioritize the completion of stalled ‘Agenda 111’ hospitals and university medical facilities. This urgency is underscored by the ‘no bed syndrome’ plaguing major hospitals, which health experts attribute to systemic failures in primary care. On the environmental front, VAST-Ghana is advocating for air pollution to be treated as a national emergency, noting that household pollution caused over 23,000 deaths in 2023. The organization is also urging the Ministry of Health to enforce a formal code of conduct to prevent tobacco industry interference in public policy, as Ghana currently ranks 38th globally in the Tobacco Industry Interference Index. In regional and international affairs, Ghana continues to play a pivotal role in West African diplomacy. Former President Akufo-Addo has been appointed by ECOWAS to lead the Electoral Observation Mission for the high-stakes presidential elections in Benin this April, ensuring a transparent transition as President Patrice Talon prepares to step down. Domestically, Speaker Alban Bagbin has pledged Parliament’s full support for a thorough inquiry into the tragic Tema air crash to prevent future occurrences. As the country looks toward the fourth quarter of 2026, the Roads and Transport Committee has announced the launch of a new electronic road toll system, aimed at restoring lost revenue streams and ensuring sustainable funding for the nation’s deteriorating road infrastructure.

Escalating Middle East Conflict: Israeli Ground Advancement, Iranian Missile Strikes, and Growing Diplomatic Pressure
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Escalating Middle East Conflict: Israeli Ground Advancement, Iranian Missile Strikes, and Growing Diplomatic Pressure

The Middle East has entered a period of intense volatility as Israeli ground forces push deeper into Lebanese territory while Iran launches retaliatory missile strikes across the region. According to reports from the Lebanese Defence Minister, Israeli troops have advanced eight kilometers inland, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in towns like Al-Bayyadah and al-Khiam. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans for an expanded buffer zone to secure Israel’s northern border, the human cost continues to mount. The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that since early March, the conflict has resulted in at least 1,142 fatalities and over 3,300 injuries. Amidst the heavy fighting, Iran has accused Israel of a deadly strike on a diplomatic residence in Lebanon, allegedly killing six Iranian diplomats, a claim that remains under investigation. The conflict has rapidly expanded beyond the Levant, with Iran firing a series of missiles targeting Israel and Gulf nations. A significant strike on the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia resulted in injuries to at least 10 U.S. service members, adding to the more than 300 Americans wounded since hostilities escalated. In addition to conventional warfare, the conflict has moved into the digital and psychological spheres. An Iran-linked hacking group, the Handala Hack Team, successfully breached the personal email of FBI Director Kash Patel, leaking personal data in what they termed retaliation for U.S. operations. On the pitch, the Iranian national football team recently paid tribute to the victims of a school strike in Minab, where a targeting error involving a Tomahawk missile reportedly killed 170 students and teachers, highlighting the tragic civilian toll of the war. On the diplomatic front, the G7 foreign ministers convened near Paris to issue a rare joint statement demanding an immediate end to attacks on civilian infrastructure. The ministers, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasized the critical need to restore safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil and gas trade that has been severely disrupted by the hostilities. However, the diplomatic landscape remains fractured. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa notably declined an invitation to the G7 summit, citing diplomatic pressure from the U.S. and a growing strain in relations with the Trump administration. This international discord mirrors internal divisions within the United States, where the recent Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) revealed a sharp generational divide; while older conservatives largely support the military campaign, younger voters expressed deep skepticism over the war’s objectives and its impact on domestic living costs. As the conflict nears a potential inflection point, the international community remains focused on preventing a total regional collapse. While some nations like Turkey and Russia have called for urgent de-escalation and the establishment of humanitarian corridors, military operations show no sign of abating. The ongoing instability in the Persian Gulf continues to stress global energy markets and the stock exchange, placing immense pressure on world leaders to find a viable 'exit ramp.' With midterm elections approaching in the U.S. and Israeli forces entrenching their positions in southern Lebanon, the next few weeks will be critical in determining whether the region moves toward a fragile ceasefire or a wider, more devastating confrontation.

Global Statesmanship and National Values: President Mahama Navigates U.S. Engagements Amidst Honorary Degree Controversy
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Global Statesmanship and National Values: President Mahama Navigates U.S. Engagements Amidst Honorary Degree Controversy

President John Dramani Mahama’s recent diplomatic mission to the United States has highlighted a complex intersection of international recognition and domestic values. In a historic achievement, Mahama became the first African leader to receive the International Statesperson Award from the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, an honor previously held by figures such as Nelson Mandela. During his acceptance, the President attributed his commitment to global peace to the legacies of Africa’s founding fathers. However, this prestige was met with a significant diplomatic friction as Lincoln University withdrew an honorary doctorate previously intended for the President, citing internal pressures regarding his stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Despite the withdrawal, Mahama maintained his respect for the institution's historical role in African liberation, while receiving strong domestic support from religious bodies. The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) and the Assemblies of God Church have rallied behind the President, expressing solidarity and criticizing the lack of transparency in Lincoln University’s decision. The GCBC urged the Ghanaian Parliament to expedite the transmission of the controversial 'Anti-LGBTQ' Bill to the President for assent, reflecting a firm national stance on the matter. Conversely, the debate over the bill continues within Ghana, with figures like Rev Fr Dr Daniel Justice Eshun cautioning against the 'weaponization' of African traditional religion to justify harsher penalties. Dr. Eshun argued that current anti-LGBTQ sentiments often rely on selective interpretations of tradition that contradict pre-colonial inclusive practices, calling for a return to values of social cohesion. On the economic front, President Mahama engaged the Ghanaian diaspora in Philadelphia, emphasizing their vital role in national development through annual remittances totaling $7.8 billion. He outlined a vision for economic resilience, including a '24-hour economy' policy, agricultural reforms, and the implementation of free primary healthcare. Amidst global oil price fluctuations driven by Middle Eastern conflicts, the President reassured the public that Ghana maintains six weeks of petroleum reserves and is taking proactive steps to stabilize fuel costs. The engagement also featured lighter moments, with Mahama humorously mimicking the foreign accents some Ghanaians adopt after short stays abroad, while ultimately urging the diaspora to remain authentic cultural ambassadors. Beyond domestic and economic concerns, the administration is focused on rebuilding Ghana’s international credibility through the 'Operation Recover All Loot' anti-corruption initiative and a proactive regional diplomacy strategy. Mahama has sought to re-engage with Sahelian nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to prevent a total fracture of ECOWAS, positioning Ghana as a stabilizing force in West Africa. As Ghana prepares for its 2027 chairmanship of the African Union, the President’s blend of accountability-driven governance and principled diplomacy seeks to cement the nation's footing as a credible and influential player on the global stage.

Ghana’s GHS 73bn ‘Big Push’ Infrastructure Program Under Scrutiny Over Sole-Sourcing Allegations and Procurement Irregularities
politics|

Ghana’s GHS 73bn ‘Big Push’ Infrastructure Program Under Scrutiny Over Sole-Sourcing Allegations and Procurement Irregularities

Ghana’s ambitious ‘Big Push’ road infrastructure initiative has become the center of a heated national debate following allegations of extensive procurement irregularities and a lack of competitive bidding. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration has championed the program as a groundbreaking solution to decades of road neglect, aiming to enhance inter-city transport and economic activity. However, reports from The Fourth Estate and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) have raised alarms over the awarding of 107 contracts valued at over GHS 73 billion. Critics allege that these contracts were awarded through sole-sourcing without competitive tenders, potentially leading to inflated costs and compromised transparency in the management of public funds. Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the MFWA, revealed that official data from the Ministry of Roads and Highways’ own Master Register—obtained only after a Right to Information (RTI) appeal—shows that none of the 107 contracts underwent competitive bidding. Investigative findings further suggest that some firms awarded these multi-million cedi contracts were established as recently as January 2025, while others operate with as few as one to four employees. These revelations have sparked concerns among procurement specialists and civil society groups, such as IMANI Africa, who argue that the systemic abuse of sole-sourcing undermines public trust and creates an environment ripe for corruption. Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has called for a total abolition of sole-sourcing, attributing the current crisis to leadership failures rather than deficiencies in existing laws. In response to these allegations, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, and Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza have firmly defended the government’s record. While acknowledging that sole-sourcing occurs, they dispute the scale of the claims, asserting that only 44% of major ‘Big Push’ contracts were sole-sourced. Suhuyini emphasized that the administration is actually reforming a procurement system they inherited, which they claim was fully reliant on sole-sourcing under previous leadership. He further issued a stern warning to contractors that underperformance or delays would result in immediate contract termination, insisting that the government is committed to delivering tangible results for the Ghanaian taxpayer under President John Dramani Mahama’s oversight. The controversy coincides with significant legislative and legal developments in the procurement sector. Parliament recently passed the Value for Money Office Bill 2026, intended to tackle inefficiencies in public spending. However, the law has faced sharp criticism from procurement specialists like Kobina Ata-Bedu, who label it as “useless” and a redundant duplication of the Public Procurement and Public Financial Management Acts. Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) continues to pursue accountability in the courts, recently closing its case against the former Chief Executive of the Public Procurement Authority, Adjenim Boateng Adjei, who faces charges for abuse of office and procurement manipulation. As the ‘Big Push’ projects continue across the country, their success and transparency are expected to be pivotal issues in the upcoming electoral cycle. While the government maintains that these infrastructure investments are essential for national development, the growing calls for collaboration between the media, judiciary, and anti-corruption bodies highlight a heightened demand for accountability. The resolution of these procurement disputes will likely determine whether the ‘Big Push’ is remembered as a transformative development milestone or a cautionary tale of governance and fiscal management in Ghana.