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.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa engage in a private conversation during a diplomatic summit. They are standing in a large conference hall notable for its vibrant, multicolored checkered ceiling and circular lighting fixture.
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European Council condemns attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea

The European Council has issued a formal condemnation regarding the ongoing attacks against civilian and commercial vessels in the Black Sea. In conclusions adopted by the Council, EU leaders expressed grave concern over maritime safety violations, specifically noting incidents within the exclusive economic zones of Bulgaria and Romania. The Council emphasized that these actions represent a direct breach of international maritime law and pose a significant threat to regional stability and the freedom of navigation in these critical waters. EU leadership specifically criticized Russia for what it termed the weaponization of food security. The Council accused Moscow of deliberately targeting Ukraine’s agricultural infrastructure, including grain storage and transport facilities. These strikes have severely disrupted global food supplies, with European leaders noting a particularly detrimental impact on regions including Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, which rely heavily on exports from the Black Sea region. In response to these disruptions, the European Council has called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of safe passage for all civilian shipping. The leaders highlighted the vital importance of the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, which have become essential alternative corridors for sustainable grain exports. These lanes are currently considered the primary mechanism for maintaining the flow of agricultural products to the global market while maritime routes remain under threat. The Council’s statement underscores the growing international pressure to secure maritime corridors that are essential for global trade and food stability. As tensions in the region persist, the European Union has signaled its commitment to supporting Ukraine's export capacity while advocating for the protection of international waters against military interference. The move reflects a unified European stance against the disruption of commercial traffic in one of the world's most strategically important shipping zones.

Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang calls for reforms in international institutions
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Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang calls for reforms in international institutions

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged nations within the Global South to move beyond the passive implementation of international policies and instead demand a seat at the table where those policies are crafted. Speaking at the 2026 Global South Academic Forum held in Shanghai, China, the Vice President highlighted the increasing influence of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. She stated that the current multilateral system must evolve to reflect these modern demographic and economic realities through active participation rather than compliance. During her address, Professor Opoku-Agyemang called for comprehensive reforms within international institutions to guarantee equitable representation for developing regions. She cautioned that the pursuit of a new international order should focus on creating a pluralistic system rather than merely substituting one dominant global power for another. This plural international order, she argued, is essential for ensuring that the unique challenges and perspectives of the Global South are integrated into the core of global decision-making processes. To support this transition toward active global participation, the Vice President underscored the critical role of academia and local research. She urged universities across the Global South to prioritize research that addresses regional needs, providing the intellectual framework and data necessary to influence global policy-making. By strengthening local academic contributions and fostering collaboration across these regions, she believes these nations can more effectively advocate for a fairer and more balanced global governance structure.

Lord Paul Boateng urges British Museum to return looted Asante gold
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Lord Paul Boateng urges British Museum to return looted Asante gold

Lord Paul Yaw Boateng, a prominent British Labour politician, has issued a sharp demand for the British Museum to return looted cultural artefacts to their countries of origin. Speaking at a Chatham House event held to commemorate Black History Month, Lord Boateng specifically called for the full restitution of Asante gold, the Benin Bronzes, and Ethiopian Tabots. He urged the public and international allies to exert pressure on the museum's trustees to move beyond current policies and facilitate the return of these significant historical items. During his address, Lord Boateng described the British Museum as the "largest depository of stolen goods known to man," criticizing what he characterized as a lack of meaningful action regarding reparative justice. He emphasized that the presence of these items in London remains a barrier to reconciliation between the United Kingdom and African nations. The Asante gold, in particular, remains a focal point for Ghanaians, representing both the artistic heritage and the spiritual history of the Asante people that was seized during colonial-era military expeditions. The call for restitution highlights a growing global movement targeting Western institutions to address the legacy of colonial acquisitions. Lord Boateng’s remarks underscore the shift from temporary loans toward the permanent return of artefacts as a necessary component of reparative justice. By identifying specific items like the Ethiopian Tabots—sacred altar tablets—and the Benin Bronzes, the politician has refocused the debate on the ethical responsibilities of modern museums to rectify historical grievances and restore cultural sovereignty to the global south.

Two officials, likely representing Ghana and Lebanon, stand together in a formal setting for a photograph. They are positioned in front of the Lebanese flag and flanked by white orchids, indicating an official diplomatic meeting.
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Solomon Korantwi-Barimah proposes Lebanon visa waiver to boost trade

Ghana’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Prof. Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah, has officially proposed a visa waiver agreement between the two nations to facilitate easier travel and strengthen bilateral trade. The proposal was presented during a formal ceremony on October 15, 2026, where the Ambassador submitted his credentials to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. This diplomatic move aims to build upon the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Lebanon, which dates back to Ghana’s independence in 1957. During the presentation, Prof. Korantwi-Barimah highlighted the significant contributions of the Lebanese business community to Ghana’s economic development. He noted that a visa waiver for various passport holders would not only simplify travel for investors but also unlock new opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors. The Ambassador acknowledged the historical ties that have bound the two countries for decades, expressing Ghana's commitment to fostering a partnership that serves mutual economic interests. A critical component of the Ambassador’s agenda involves addressing labor and migration issues. He called for enhanced cooperation between Ghana and Lebanon to safeguard the welfare of Ghanaian workers residing in the Middle Eastern nation. By establishing stronger frameworks for labor migration, both countries can ensure that workers are protected and that migration processes remain transparent and beneficial to all parties involved. Prof. Korantwi-Barimah also took the opportunity to thank the Lebanese government for its support on the international stage, specifically regarding efforts to address the trafficking of enslaved Africans. He reiterated Ghana’s readiness to collaborate closely with Lebanese authorities to achieve shared goals. As both nations look toward the future, the proposed visa waiver and labor agreements represent a significant step toward deepening diplomatic and economic integration between Accra and Beirut.

Ghana to deploy teachers and nurses to U.S. Virgin Islands under new deal
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Ghana to deploy teachers and nurses to U.S. Virgin Islands under new deal

Ghana and the U.S. Virgin Islands have reached a bilateral agreement to deploy qualified Ghanaian teachers and healthcare professionals to the Caribbean territory. This partnership follows high-level discussions held in St. Thomas, aimed at addressing critical labor shortages in the territory's essential sectors while providing international opportunities for Ghanaian workers. The formalization of this partnership is expected to take place in November 2026, when a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will be signed in Ghana. The Minister of Labour, Employment, and Job Creation is scheduled to lead the signing ceremony, which will mark a significant milestone in the relationship between the two entities. The agreement focuses on the recruitment of professionals to fill roles in both the education and health sectors, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. This initiative is part of Ghana's broader strategy to expand its global partnerships and create diverse career paths for its skilled workforce. By facilitating the movement of professionals to the U.S. Virgin Islands, the government aims to leverage its human capital in fields like nursing and teaching. For the U.S. Virgin Islands, the influx of Ghanaian expertise is anticipated to bolster its social services and provide much-needed support to its local institutions currently facing staffing deficits. As preparations for the MOU signing continue, the move underscores the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and Caribbean nations. Beyond the immediate personnel exchange, both parties have expressed interest in deeper collaboration across various sectors of mutual interest. The successful implementation of this agreement could serve as a model for future labor export programs, highlighting Ghana's role as a key provider of professional talent on the international stage.

Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah distributes 5,000 bags of fertiliser to Ho West farmers
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Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah distributes 5,000 bags of fertiliser to Ho West farmers

Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, the Member of Parliament for Ho West, has distributed 5,000 bags of NPK fertiliser to farmers across his constituency to boost agricultural productivity. The distribution was the centerpiece of a three-day constituency engagement tour that commenced on October 15, 2026. Conducted during the parliamentary recess, the initiative provided a platform for the MP to interact directly with residents and address their immediate economic needs. During the tour, which spanned multiple communities, Mr. Bedzrah handed over the 50-kilogramme bags of fertiliser to local farming groups and individuals. He emphasized that the support was intended to alleviate some of the financial burdens on farmers and ensure a robust harvest. The engagement also served as a feedback mechanism, allowing constituents to discuss various local issues, from infrastructure needs to social services, directly with their representative. While the donation was largely praised by beneficiaries, the exercise also prompted calls for improved administrative processes. Some residents raised concerns regarding the transparency of the distribution and the specific criteria used to select beneficiaries. These constituents urged the MP’s office to implement more rigorous and clear eligibility standards in future programmes to ensure that all hardworking farmers in the district have an equal opportunity to access such resources. Mr. Bedzrah expressed satisfaction with the level of community participation and thanked the residents for their candid feedback. He noted that the insights gained during the three-day engagement would inform his advocacy and resource allocation in Parliament. As the farming season progresses, the impact of this fertiliser distribution will be closely monitored by local agricultural stakeholders hoping for improved food security in Ho West.

Four newly appointed officials are seen standing in a row while taking an official oath of office. They are holding religious texts and documents, dressed in a mix of formal Western suits and colorful traditional Ghanaian Kente cloths during a state ceremony.
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John Mahama commissions four ambassadors to represent Ghana

President John Mahama has formally commissioned four new ambassadors to represent Ghana in Angola, Qatar, Israel, and Switzerland. During a ceremony held in Accra, the President presented letters of credence to Nana Antwiwaa Dodoo for Angola, Louis Kwame Obeng for Qatar, Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable for Israel, and Jedidiah Reuben Adogla for Switzerland. These appointments are intended to strengthen Ghana's diplomatic presence and advance national interests across diverse geopolitical regions. Addressing the newly appointed envoys, President Mahama emphasized the importance of "economic diplomacy" in the current global landscape. He urged the diplomats to prioritize securing investments that support local resource processing and value addition. The President noted that in a world facing economic insecurity and climate change, Ghana's missions must forge partnerships that promote self-reliance, particularly in essential sectors such as healthcare and natural resource management. A significant focus of the President's address was the welfare of the diaspora, which he referred to as the country’s "17th Region." He instructed the ambassadors to provide responsive and accessible support to Ghanaians living abroad, ensuring that the missions serve as reliable pillars for all citizens. By viewing the diaspora as a distinct region, the administration aims to better integrate the expertise and resources of Ghanaians abroad into the national development framework. In their collective response, the ambassadors expressed gratitude for their appointments and pledged to mobilize foreign investment to support government initiatives. They committed to enhancing Ghana's global influence and navigating the complexities of their respective posts to deliver tangible economic benefits. The new envoys are expected to depart for their host countries shortly to begin their diplomatic duties.

A professional portrait of Mustapha Gbande, a Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), looking directly at the camera. He is wearing a traditional blue and white patterned smock, a common attire for political and social events in Ghana.
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NDC disqualifies 26 aspirants in internal election vetting

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has disqualified 26 candidates following a comprehensive vetting exercise conducted ahead of its upcoming internal regional elections. Acting Director of Elections, Mahdi Jibril, announced that despite these disqualifications, the party recorded a high approval rate of approximately 95 to 96 percent across all 16 regions. The vetting process is a key component of the party's restructuring efforts as it prepares for the regional executive polls scheduled to take place on October 24 and 25. Aspiring candidates who were unsuccessful during the vetting stage have been provided an opportunity to seek redress. An appeals committee has been established to review grievances, with sessions scheduled to begin on Monday, October 19. Jibril emphasized that the appeals process is intended to ensure fairness and maintain party unity during the internal transition. In the Ashanti Region, the vetting committee cleared 63 out of 65 aspirants, with the two disqualifications reportedly based on technical grounds according to the committee chairman, Yaw Boateng Gyan. Logistical preparations for the elections are proceeding as planned, with the party set to begin the distribution of ballot papers by Wednesday. Beyond the technical requirements, the NDC leadership has enforced specific campaigning rules, including a ban on the use of billboards. This directive is designed to encourage candidates to prioritize direct engagement with delegates and grassroots members, moving away from high-cost advertising toward personal interaction and policy-driven messaging. The successful completion of the vetting exercise marks a critical step in the NDC's reorganization strategy. Party officials have urged all cleared candidates to maintain a high level of decorum and focus their campaigns on unifying themes. As the election dates approach, the party aims to consolidate its internal structures to ensure it is well-positioned for future political activities and national contests.

Hassan Ayariga demands parliamentary scrutiny of Ghana’s BRICS application
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Hassan Ayariga demands parliamentary scrutiny of Ghana’s BRICS application

Dr. Hassan Ayariga, the founder and leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), has called on the government to submit its application for BRICS membership to Parliament for rigorous scrutiny and public consultation. The demand follows an announcement by President John Dramani Mahama that Ghana is formally seeking "Partner Country" status within the economic bloc. Ayariga argued that a decision of such national magnitude, touching on sovereignty and long-term economic commitments, requires legislative oversight rather than unilateral executive action. Invoking Articles 1(1) and 75 of the 1992 Constitution, Dr. Ayariga emphasized that international agreements must be ratified by the legislature to ensure they align with the national interest. He cautioned that an electoral mandate does not grant the government unlimited authority to enter into significant global alliances without transparent debate. "Parliament must not be a spectator in the BRICS decision," Ayariga asserted, urging the House to demand a comprehensive briefing from the Minister for Foreign Affairs regarding the legal, financial, and sovereignty implications of the partnership. The push for BRICS membership is a pillar of President Mahama’s "New Economy" agenda. Speaking at a commissioning event for ambassadors on October 16, 2026, the President described the move as a strategic effort to foster South-South cooperation and expand trade and investment opportunities. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the Cabinet has already approved the application for partner status, which could eventually lead to full membership. The administration maintains that the alliance will complement existing relations with traditional Western partners while driving industrialization. However, the proposal has met with skepticism from the parliamentary opposition. Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, questioned the feasibility of the expected economic gains. Speaking on October 17, 2026, Jinapor argued that Ghana’s ongoing reliance on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could limit the benefits of joining BRICS. He called for a more realistic assessment of what the partnership can actually deliver, noting that while the process began under the previous administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, the current government must be transparent about potential risks. The growing call for transparency suggests that the BRICS bid will become a focal point of legislative debate in the coming weeks. Critics and stakeholders are now looking to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide a detailed roadmap that outlines the specific obligations Ghana would undertake. For Dr. Ayariga and other skeptical voices, the priority remains ensuring that any shift in Ghana’s geopolitical alignment is backed by a clear national consensus and a verifiable economic justification.

President John Dramani Mahama is captured speaking at a public event, wearing a light blue button-down shirt and dark sunglasses. A microphone is positioned in front of him, and the seal of the Presidency of Ghana is visible on his left sleeve.
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John Mahama stations soldiers in nine forest reserves to stop galamsey

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that military personnel will remain permanently stationed in nine forest reserves that have been successfully cleared of illegal mining activities. This strategic decision aims to ensure that illegal miners, commonly known as galamsey operators, do not return to these areas once enforcement teams depart. The President noted that this policy shift is a direct response to past experiences where miners reappeared almost immediately after the military withdrew from protected zones. Speaking during a meeting with traditional leaders from the Western North Region, President Mahama emphasized that the military’s presence is necessary to protect both the environment and those tasked with its preservation. He expressed concern over previous incidents where forest guards faced extreme violence, resulting in several fatalities. The President called for deeper collaboration with traditional authorities, urging chiefs to support government efforts and help manage communities that remain resistant to the ban on illegal mining. To further bolster the protection of natural resources, the government has allocated GH‵400 million in the 2027 budget for the recruitment and deployment of additional Blue Water Guards. This specialized force is tasked with patrolling Ghana's river bodies to eliminate water-based mining operations. This funding is part of a broader commitment to address the socio-economic factors driving the youth into illegal mining while providing the necessary resources for round-the-clock surveillance of vulnerable ecological zones. Beyond enforcement, the administration is engaging the military in a new initiative to restore degraded lands. By combining permanent surveillance with active land reclamation, the government seeks to reverse the environmental damage caused by years of unregulated extraction. President Mahama highlighted that this dual approach of security and restoration is essential for ensuring that forest reserves and water bodies are preserved for future generations.

Mahamudu Bawumia labels Ghana's current state a "paper economy"
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Mahamudu Bawumia labels Ghana's current state a "paper economy"

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, has challenged the NDC government’s economic narrative, describing a sharp disconnect between official statistics and the lived reality of Ghanaians. Speaking at the party’s National Thanksgiving Service in Sunyani, Bawumia introduced the concept of a ’tale of two economies’: a ‘paper economy’ cited by the government to show stability and a ‘pocket economy’ where citizens continue to struggle with high costs of living. During his address, Bawumia argued that any claims of inflation reduction or currency stabilization are meaningless if they do not result in tangible relief for ordinary people. He stated that ‘stability by itself is meaningless unless it is linked to the total liberation of the pockets of Ghanaians.’ The NPP candidate accused the administration under President John Mahama of using theoretical figures to mask a dire economic situation, noting that prices in markets and shops do not reflect the improvements reported by state institutions. Bawumia further expanded his critique to specific sectors, alleging that the government has failed to protect critical programs like Free Senior High School (Free SHS) and has underperformed in addressing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. Using the internet meme phrase ‘Omo akyi gu ho!’ to mock the governing NDC, he suggested that the digital age makes it impossible for politicians to hide from their past rhetoric. He questioned whether sectors such as agriculture and healthcare had seen any actual benefit from the stability the government claims to have achieved. Looking ahead, Bawumia pledged that a future NPP administration would focus on viable, practical solutions aimed at bridging the gap between macroeconomic data and the ‘pocket economy.’ He emphasized that the electorate would hold the government accountable for the disconnect between its rhetoric and their daily financial hardships. The service in Sunyani served as a platform for the NPP to consolidate its message of economic restoration as the campaign for the upcoming elections intensifies.

Emelia Affi Agbenyo appointment to Electoral Commission sparks neutrality debate
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Emelia Affi Agbenyo appointment to Electoral Commission sparks neutrality debate

The appointment of Emelia Affi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) by President John Mahama has sparked a national debate over the institution's independence and neutrality. While the presidency and its supporters defend the appointment based on Ms. Agbenyo's professional competence, critics and governance experts point to her perceived political ties as a threat to public confidence. Specifically, her previous role on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto committee for the 2024 elections has become a focal point for those questioning the impartiality of the electoral body. Governance analysts and civil society figures have voiced significant concerns over the political optics of the move. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, noted that while the appointment is constitutionally sound, the appearance of bias remains problematic. He likened the situation to a football referee whose impartiality is questioned due to known affiliations. Similarly, Senyo Hosi, convenor of the One Ghana Movement, expressed disappointment, stating that the government should prioritize institutional reform over "equalization." Professor Kwaku Agyemang-Duah also challenged assertions from Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu that the appointment was intended to "balance" political representation, arguing such logic damages the commission's credibility. Conversely, supporters of Ms. Agbenyo have called for the focus to remain on her qualifications and work ethic. Duncan Amoah, Executive Director of COPEC, described her as a competent and diligent professional who should be allowed to serve without undue political interference. He criticized the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he characterized as double standards regarding political appointments. This sentiment was echoed by Rashid Tanko-Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, who argued that Ms. Agbenyo’s past associations do not disqualify her. He suggested that critics should instead focus their scrutiny on the current EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, rather than questioning Ms. Agbenyo’s integrity. The unfolding controversy underscores a deep-seated challenge in Ghana’s democratic governance: the appointment of individuals with known political backgrounds to neutral state institutions. As the Electoral Commission navigates these criticisms, the debate remains centered on whether constitutional adherence alone is sufficient to maintain public trust or if additional measures are needed to ensure the perception of impartiality. For now, the government remains firm in its choice, while civil society continues to demand a "reset" in how such critical roles are filled.