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.

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Former Finance Minister Accuses BoG Governor of Partisanship Over Gold for Reserves Losses

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the former Minister for Finance, has publicly criticized the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Asiama, for his perceived partisanship and lack of transparency during a recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing. Adam specifically questioned Dr. Asiama's failure to provide adequate documentation regarding a reported GH¢3.8 billion loss from the Gold for Reserves program in 2024. He noted that these losses were not reflected in the BoG's financial statements, raising concerns about the accuracy of the bank's reporting to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Adam emphasized that discrepancies in financial reporting could undermine the credibility and independence of the central bank. He also drew a comparison to the government's cancellation of the Gold for Oil program, which had a reported loss of GH¢1.8 billion, highlighting the need for accountability and clear communication from the central bank's leadership.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, a prominent Ghanaian politician, is captured mid-speech during an interview or official event. He is dressed in a blue checkered suit and a green tie, gesturing with his hands to emphasize his point against a backdrop of indoor greenery.
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Benin's Citizenship Initiative for African Diaspora Gains Momentum with Celebrity Support

Benin has launched a significant initiative aimed at reconnecting with the African diaspora through its "My Afro Origins" program, which offers citizenship to descendants of enslaved individuals. This program, part of President Patrice Talon's broader strategy to acknowledge and commemorate the country's historical role in the transatlantic slave trade, has already granted citizenship to approximately 50 individuals, with many more applications pending. Among those who have benefited from this initiative is Isaline Attelly, a content creator from Martinique, who discovered her ancestral ties to Benin and expressed pride in representing her heritage during her naturalization ceremony. The program is further supported by high-profile ambassadors, including filmmaker Spike Lee, who is helping to promote the initiative and strengthen connections between Benin and the global African community. Additionally, the government is investing in cultural projects, including the construction of a replica slave ship and the upcoming International Museum of Memory and Slavery, to enhance the historical narrative and foster ties with the diaspora. This initiative not only serves as a means of recognition for the past but also aims to build a bridge for future relations with the African diaspora.

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Ghana's Ambassador Confirms Non-Immigrant Visa Processing Unaffected by US Visa Pause

Ghana's Ambassador to the United States, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has reassured Ghanaians that the recent temporary suspension of immigrant visa processing by the US will not impact non-immigrant visas, specifically B1 and B2 visas for business and tourism. This clarification comes as the US State Department announced a pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, starting January 21, 2026, as part of a review of visa screening procedures under the 'public charge' rules. Ambassador Smith emphasized that applications for B1 and B2 visas will continue to be processed normally, alleviating concerns for those planning short-term travel to the US. The Ghanaian Embassy in Washington DC echoed this sentiment, urging the public to rely on official communications regarding visa matters and to disregard speculation about broader visa restrictions. Ghanaians seeking to travel for business or tourism can proceed without issue, as only immigrant visas are affected by the current freeze.

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Controversy Erupts Over Gender Identity Content in Ghana's Teacher Manual as NaCCA Issues Apology

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has faced significant backlash following the inclusion of controversial gender identity content in a Senior High School teacher manual, which was subsequently withdrawn. Prof. Samuel Ofori Obuobisah Bekoe, NaCCA's Director-General, issued an apology acknowledging the manual's misalignment with Ghanaian cultural values and assured that revised materials would be developed to reflect these values. The manual, intended for the Year Two Physical Education and Health curriculum, was criticized by the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) for promoting ideas that contradict the cultural identity of Ghana. NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba highlighted that teachers had raised concerns about the content earlier this year, and he accused NaCCA of being aware of the issues prior to the public outcry. Anaba expressed distrust in NaCCA's explanations and emphasized the need for a complete removal of the contentious material. This incident echoes previous controversies from 2017 regarding similar content, raising questions about the integrity of educational materials in Ghana. NaCCA has promised to rectify the situation and is currently assessing the exposure of students to the withdrawn content, while also releasing a revised version of the manual to address these concerns.

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Colonel Festus Aboagye Warns of Rising Geopolitical Tensions Leading to Global Conflict

Retired Colonel Festus Aboagye has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating geopolitical tensions that could potentially lead to a global conflict, including the possibility of a world war. In a recent interview on Channel One TV, Aboagye pointed to aggressive maneuvers by major global powers, particularly actions taken by US President Donald Trump, as significant contributors to the precarious international landscape. He expressed concern that the traditional deterrent effect of nuclear weapons is diminishing, raising the stakes for global peace. Aboagye cited recent regional conflicts, such as the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in 2025, as examples of how quickly minor disputes can escalate into larger confrontations. He emphasized that modern warfare could begin with seemingly small incidents but could rapidly spiral into catastrophic outcomes, reminiscent of the devastating effects of World War II. His remarks reflect a growing anxiety about military brinkmanship and aggressive foreign policies among world powers, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to avert potential crises.

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Speaker Alban Bagbin Congratulates Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo on ACU Council Chair Election

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has extended his congratulations to Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo following her election as Chair of the Council of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU). Announced on January 8, 2026, Professor Amfo's election marks a significant milestone in her academic career, which includes her previous induction into the ACU Governing Council in August 2024. In a letter dated January 14, 2026, Bagbin praised her distinguished leadership and extensive international academic credentials, built over two decades. He expressed confidence in her ability to lead the Council effectively, emphasizing the importance of higher education in driving sustainable development. Bagbin assured Professor Amfo of Parliament's unwavering support as she embarks on this pivotal role in advancing the mission of the ACU.

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Ghana and Canada Discuss MoU on Labour Mobility to Combat Illegal Migration

Ghana and Canada are actively engaged in discussions to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing labour mobility and addressing illegal immigration. This initiative was highlighted during a meeting on January 13, 2026, between Ghana's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, and Canada's Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Dr. Harpreet S. Kochhar. The talks focused on promoting safe migration practices and leveraging Ghana's skilled youthful population to meet Canada's labor needs. Both officials emphasized the importance of a coordinated immigration process, particularly for Ghanaians traveling to Canada for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Dr. Kochhar reiterated Canada's commitment to addressing irregular migration and fostering bilateral cooperation with Ghana. The discussions reflect a mutual interest in ensuring structured labour mobility while facilitating smoother immigration processes for Ghanaians.

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Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana to Begin Indefinite Strike Over Unpaid Salary Arrears

The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has declared an indefinite strike set to commence on January 19, 2026, due to the non-payment of eight months' salary arrears. This situation arises from a previously approved 10% base pay increase for 2025, which has not been honored by the government. JUSAG's National President, Samuel Afotey Otu, emphasized that despite ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Finance, the government failed to fulfill its commitment to pay the arrears by the end of the 2025 fiscal year. The strike is particularly impactful as it coincides with the festive season, a time when members were expecting their payments. JUSAG has stated that the strike will continue until all arrears from January to August 2025 are fully paid, highlighting the untenable situation for its members who have been waiting for these payments.

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Health Minister Initiates Comprehensive Audit of Oti Region Health Facilities

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced a comprehensive audit of health facilities in the Oti Region, aimed at enhancing service delivery and ensuring patient safety. This directive, issued on January 13, 2026, follows a management retreat and involves the formation of a technical working group led by Dr. Korku Awoonor. The group will evaluate the structural integrity and operational capacity of the facilities. In addition to the audit, the Minister has mandated the implementation of 24-hour cleaning services in public hospitals across the region to improve hygiene and patient experience. These initiatives reflect the government's commitment to elevating healthcare standards and improving oversight within the health sector.

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Nitiwul Urges NPP to Back Bawumia for 2028 Elections to Avoid Catastrophe

Former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul has issued a strong warning to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding the upcoming 2028 presidential elections, framing it as a critical must-win scenario for the party. Speaking on Joy News, Nitiwul cautioned against the risks associated with selecting a first-time presidential candidate, emphasizing that such a choice could lead to a catastrophic defeat following their loss in 2024. He strongly advocates for the candidacy of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, citing his established public image and proven electoral experience as key advantages. Nitiwul argues that Ghanaians typically do not favor first-time candidates, making Bawumia the safest and most viable option for the NPP. He reiterated that the party has limited time to market a new candidate and must focus on continuity and tested leadership to secure victory. Additionally, Nitiwul noted that Bawumia is concentrating on winning the support of party delegates rather than engaging in negative campaigning against rivals, which he believes is crucial for maintaining unity within the party post-primaries. His comments come amid ongoing discussions within the NPP about candidate selection, with Nitiwul's endorsement of Bawumia reflecting a strategic approach to ensure the party's success in the 2028 elections.

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Prof. Frimpong-Boateng Critiques NPP Identity and Ghana's Development Strategy

Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, a prominent heart surgeon and former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, has raised serious concerns regarding the current state of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Ghana's national development approach. In a recent critique, he declared that the NPP has lost its identity, describing it as a 'fake' version of its original self. He expressed disappointment over the party's internal democratic processes, particularly criticizing the recent flagbearer elections, which he claims were marred by coercion and bribery. Frimpong-Boateng linked these issues to the party's poor electoral performance and warned that without necessary reforms, repeating past leadership styles would be detrimental to the party's future. In addition to his critique of the NPP, Frimpong-Boateng also addressed broader national issues, stating that Ghana's development visions lack a scientific foundation. He emphasized the need for a coherent, long-term strategy that transcends political cycles, arguing that current policies often shift with administrations, hindering sustainable progress. He advocated for a national development plan that leverages the expertise of universities and research institutions, citing China's science-driven approach as a successful model for transformation. His comments highlight a pressing need for both political and developmental reforms in Ghana to ensure a more effective governance framework.

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CDM Critiques Gold-for-Reserves Programme Amidst Governance Concerns

The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has sharply criticized the Ghanaian government's Gold-for-Reserves (G4R) Programme, labeling it a significant failure of democratic governance and a reflection of the structural weaknesses within the Bank of Ghana. In a series of statements, the CDM has raised alarms over the lack of transparency and accountability in the management of the G4R initiative, particularly following the Bank of Ghana's acknowledgment of financial losses associated with the program. The CDM has expressed concerns regarding the government's opaqueness and inadequate parliamentary oversight, arguing that the G4R Programme lacks a clear operational framework. They warn against attempts to shift the financial burdens from the Bank of Ghana to taxpayers, emphasizing that such actions would exacerbate the ongoing governance crisis. The group insists that political risks should not undermine the integrity of the central bank and has called for accountability, demanding that officials involved in the program's conception and execution testify before Parliament. In a related political development, Ghana's High Commissioner to the U.S., Victor Smith, confirmed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was medically cleared for detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Following his arrest, Ofori-Atta was assessed by medical professionals to ensure his fitness for detention, and he was allowed access to his prescribed medications. The Ghanaian embassy sought consular access, but Ofori-Atta declined to meet officials without his lawyers present. He remains in ICE custody while addressing questions regarding his immigration status.