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.

No pesewa missing in South Africa evacuation — Ablakwa to Minority
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa denies missing GH‵16m in South Africa evacuation

Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has firmly rejected allegations from the Minority in Parliament that GH‵16 million in public funds went unaccounted for during the emergency evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. Addressing the claims in a televised interview, the Minister asserted that "no pesewa" was missing from the GH‵49.72 million operation. The exercise, necessitated by a wave of xenophobic attacks that resulted in the deaths of four Ghanaians, successfully repatriated 1,964 citizens who were provided with financial support, medical care, and reintegration assistance. To ensure transparency and counter the opposition's claims, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published the names and signatures of all 1,964 evacuees. Minister Ablakwa dismissed the Minority’s financial scrutiny as "voodoo analysis," arguing that their report contained discrepancies regarding the number of beneficiaries, particularly children. He challenged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to produce even a single returnee who had not received their full GH‵5,500 allowance, maintaining that all payments were handled transparently and sourced from both the government and private contributors. Despite the Minister's defense, the NPP has raised specific concerns regarding discrepancies in the payment records and the cost of chartered flights. NPP Communications Director Dennis Miracles Aboagye pointed out that while the Ministry claims 1,964 people were evacuated, only 1,001 signatures appear on the records for the GH‵500 transport allowance. Furthermore, the opposition questioned why the government reportedly paid $750,000 per flight to Ethiopian Airlines when industry estimates for such services typically range between $180,000 and $300,000. The NPP has criticized the lack of original invoices and contracts in the Ministry's report. The NPP has since issued a seven-day ultimatum to Minister Ablakwa to provide the original invoices and payment vouchers for the GH‵27.18 million spent on flight arrangements. While the Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, clarified that the Minority is not yet accusing the Minister of direct wrongdoing, the party is calling for an independent audit to resolve the conflicting figures. Failure to provide the requested documentation within the week will lead the opposition to push for a formal parliamentary inquiry into the handling of the evacuation funds.

Ekow Spio-Garbrah reveals Ghana is drafting reparations financing proposal
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Ekow Spio-Garbrah reveals Ghana is drafting reparations financing proposal

Former Trade and Industry Minister Ekow Spio-Garbrah has revealed that Ghana is currently developing a strategic framework for reparations financing. This proposal is being designed for submission to major international financial institutions, marking a significant step in the nation's efforts to seek formal compensation for historical injustices. The initiative focuses on addressing the deep-seated economic and social scars left by centuries of slavery and colonial rule, which continue to affect the development of African nations today. The proposed framework is intended to create a standardized approach for quantifying the damages caused by the trans-Atlantic slave trade and subsequent colonial exploitation. Spio-Garbrah indicated that once the document is finalized and approved, it will serve as the primary basis for negotiations with global entities. By defining how funds can be systematically gathered and managed, the proposal aims to move the conversation from moral arguments to practical financial solutions. This structure would allow for a more organized pursuit of restorative justice, ensuring that reparations are channeled into tangible development projects. This development comes at a time of growing international momentum regarding the issue of reparations for Africa. Ghana has been at the forefront of this movement, hosting conferences and advocating for a unified continental stance on the matter. The successful implementation of such a proposal would likely require the cooperation of multiple international stakeholders and a consensus on the legal and economic methodologies used to calculate compensation. As the drafting process continues, the Ghanaian government and its partners hope to present a compelling case that underscores the link between historical exploitation and modern economic challenges.

A group of Ghanaian Queen Mothers dressed in vibrant traditional kente fabrics and headwraps pose for a photograph with a male official in a white smock. The group is gathered in front of a white wall featuring a distinctive circular breeze block pattern.
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Queen Mothers petition Mahama Ayariga for a formal national chamber

A delegation of traditional women leaders met with the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, on October 16, 2026, to formally request the establishment of a state-recognized Chamber of the House of Queen Mothers. This petition marks a significant effort by the country’s queen mothers to secure a formal platform that acknowledges their traditional authority and integrates their perspectives into the national governance structure. During the meeting, the delegation highlighted the historical and contemporary importance of queen mothers in maintaining community stability and preserving cultural heritage. The leaders argued that while they play a vital role in their respective traditional areas, their contributions are often overlooked within current institutional frameworks. By establishing a dedicated chamber, the queen mothers aim to enhance their participation in national policy discussions and social development initiatives, ensuring that the voices of traditional women leaders are systematically heard in the decision-making process. Minister Mahama Ayariga expressed strong support for the proposal, acknowledging the untapped leadership potential of women in traditional roles. He noted that formalizing their involvement could strengthen the chieftaincy institution and improve the effectiveness of local governance. Moving forward, the Ministry plans to engage with relevant stakeholders to examine the legal and policy frameworks required to institutionalize the chamber, potentially creating a formal avenue for queen mothers to operate alongside the National House of Chiefs.

Thomas Nyarko Ampem rejects GH₵8.1bn in fraudulent government claims
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Thomas Nyarko Ampem rejects GH₵8.1bn in fraudulent government claims

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem has disclosed that the government rejected GH₵8.1 billion in claims following a rigorous audit of state expenditures. Speaking at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Ghana, the Minister explained that the decision was taken to safeguard the public purse against irregularities identified during the vetting process. The rejected claims represent a significant intervention to prevent the loss of state resources that would have otherwise been paid out to various contractors and service providers based on fraudulent or erroneous documentation. The audit process uncovered several systemic discrepancies that led to the disqualification of these claims. According to the Deputy Minister, the issues included duplicate submissions, where the same service was billed multiple times, and the use of falsified receipts to justify expenditures. Furthermore, the audit identified numerous instances where payments were being sought for projects and tasks that remained unfinished or had not been started at all. This discovery highlights the critical role of internal auditing in identifying financial leakages before they impact the national budget. Highlighting the importance of the auditing profession, Thomas Nyarko Ampem called for even stronger internal controls across all government agencies and departments. He emphasized that the rejection of these GH₵8.1 billion in claims is part of a broader strategy by the Mahama administration to ensure transparency and accountability in public financial management. By empowering internal auditors to act as the first line of defense, the government aims to create a more resilient system that deters fraudulent activities and ensures that every cedi of public money is used for its intended purpose. The 25th anniversary of the IIA Ghana provided a platform for stakeholders to reflect on the progress made in the auditing sector and the challenges that remain. The Deputy Minister’s revelation serves as a stern warning to those attempting to defraud the state, signaling that the current administration will maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward financial malpractice. Moving forward, the Ministry of Finance expects to integrate more robust digital tools and oversight mechanisms to further streamline the auditing process and prevent similar fraudulent claims from surfacing in the future.

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Ejisu assembly members give Mahama one week to remove MCE Jerryne Asante

Members of the Ejisu Municipal Assembly have issued a formal one-week ultimatum to President John Mahama, demanding the immediate removal of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Jerryne Asante. The assembly members, who represent the various electoral areas in the municipality, announced their decision on October 16, 2026, citing a complete breakdown in the relationship between the executive and the assembly's legislative arm. They warned that failure to act within the specified timeframe could lead to further actions that may impede local governance in the municipality. The core grievances against Madam Asante center on her alleged disregard for the democratic processes of the assembly. According to the members, the MCE has a pattern of repeatedly ignoring resolutions passed by the house, which they argue undermines the collective authority of the local representatives. Furthermore, the assembly members have accused her of mismanaging municipal resources and failing to address critical leadership concerns that have surfaced during her tenure. These administrative lapses, they claim, have hindered the progress of essential development projects and created a vacuum in effective local leadership. The situation highlights a growing tension within the local government structure in the Ashanti Region. As the appointing authority, President Mahama faces the challenge of addressing these grievances while ensuring administrative stability in the district. The assembly members have remained firm in their position, asserting that the removal of Jerryne Asante is necessary to restore order and ensure that the municipality's interests are prioritized. The coming week will be critical in determining whether the Presidency will intervene or if the assembly members will follow through on their ultimatum to escalate the protest.

Abena Osei Asare directs GRA to recover taxes from public institutions
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Abena Osei Asare directs GRA to recover taxes from public institutions

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has officially directed the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to intensify its efforts in recovering outstanding taxes from various public institutions and private businesses. During a committee hearing on October 15, PAC Chairperson Abena Osei Asare emphasized the critical need for transparency and rigour in tax collection, particularly regarding entities specifically cited in the Auditor-General’s reports for non-compliance or arrears. The directive comes at a time when the GRA has reported a strong fiscal performance, having successfully exceeded its revenue mobilization targets as of September 2025. The committee reviewed significant progress made by certain state agencies in settling their financial obligations during the session. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) was highlighted for making substantial strides in debt management, having repaid GH₵1.3 billion of its outstanding tax debt to the state. Furthermore, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) provided updates on its regulatory compliance measures, revealing that 93% of the vehicles required to hold specific licenses have now been properly documented and processed. These updates are viewed as a positive sign of improved fiscal discipline within the public sector, though the committee maintains that more work is required to clear all remaining arrears. Beyond tax recovery, the PAC hearing addressed operational and safety concerns within the energy sector. Representatives from the Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) briefed the committee on measures being taken to manage unutilized properties and improve pipeline safety initiatives. Chairperson Abena Osei Asare concluded the session by stressing that the recovery of every cedi owed to the state is vital for national development and fiscal stability. She urged the GRA to maintain its current momentum, ensuring that the transparency shown during these hearings translates into sustained revenue growth and the complete rectification of issues identified by the Auditor-General.

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Cynthia Morrison attributes independent candidacy to NPP personal attacks

Cynthia Morrison, the former Member of Parliament for Agona West, has clarified that her decision to contest the 2024 elections as an independent candidate was a direct response to hostility from within her own political camp. The former lawmaker stated that her choice was primarily driven by individuals within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who actively sought to damage her reputation through personal attacks. She emphasized that her independent bid was not a knee-jerk reaction to her loss in the party's parliamentary primary, but rather a necessary step to protect her image from internal provocation. According to the former MP, she had no initial intention of breaking away from the NPP to run independently. However, the persistent nature of the character assassination from fellow party members compelled her to reconsider her position. Morrison explained that these attacks were a deliberate attempt to undermine her standing in the Agona West constituency, where she had previously served as a representative on the party's ticket. By running independently, she aimed to provide a platform for her supporters while distancing herself from the internal friction that had targeted her integrity. This development highlights the ongoing challenges regarding internal party cohesion following competitive primary processes. Morrison's move to bypass the official party structure underscores how personal grievances and perceived unfair treatment can lead to significant splits within a political organization. The presence of an experienced independent candidate in the race poses a unique challenge to the official NPP nominee and fundamentally alters the competitive dynamics of the Agona West parliamentary seat. While her focus remains on the local concerns of her constituents, Morrison’s situation reflects a broader trend of political figures seeking independent paths when they feel sidelined or maligned by their party leadership. Her explanation serves as a reminder of how internal party politics can influence national electoral outcomes. The final result of the race in Agona West will be closely watched for its implications on the balance of power in parliament and the long-term unity of the New Patriotic Party in the region.

Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah proposes Ghana-Lebanon visa waiver
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Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah proposes Ghana-Lebanon visa waiver

Ghana’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Prof. Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah, has formally proposed a visa waiver agreement between Ghana and Lebanon to deepen bilateral relations. The proposal, which covers diplomatic, service, and ordinary passport holders, aims to eliminate travel barriers and foster closer ties between the two nations. The initiative was highlighted during the Ambassador's presentation of his Letters of Credence to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Ambassador Korantwi-Barimah underscored the historical significance of the bond between the two countries, noting that formal diplomatic relations were established in 1957. He specifically praised the Lebanese community in Ghana for its substantial contributions to the nation's socioeconomic development over the decades. By facilitating easier movement for citizens, the Ambassador argued that both countries could better leverage their long-standing friendship to drive mutual growth. The proposed agreement is intended to act as a catalyst for expanded economic cooperation, with a particular focus on trade, investment, and healthcare. Prof. Korantwi-Barimah expressed Ghana's interest in creating a more seamless environment for investors and business leaders from both nations. This move aligns with Ghana’s broader foreign policy objectives of enhancing international cooperation and pursuing sustainable development through strategic global partnerships. The presentation of credentials and the accompanying visa waiver proposal mark a significant step in revitalizing diplomatic engagement between Accra and Beirut. As both nations evaluate the proposal, the potential implementation of the agreement could signal a new era of mobility and economic exchange, reinforcing Ghana's position as a key partner for Lebanon in West Africa.

A formal portrait of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana, wearing a white headpiece and elegant gold jewelry. The image features a graphic overlay in the top left corner that reads 'A LEGACY OF COURAGE AND RESILIENCE' beneath a stylized Adinkra symbol.
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Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings memorial mass set for October 23 in Accra

The family of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has scheduled a memorial mass to honor the one-year anniversary of her passing. The service will be held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Accra on October 23, 2026, providing an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the life and contributions of the former First Lady. This solemn occasion marks exactly one year since her death on October 23, 2025. The memorial service is slated to run from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The family has extended an invitation to the general public to join them in this remembrance, requesting that attendees observe a dress code of black, white, or a combination of both. The event is expected to bring together family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives were touched by her decades of public service. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings is remembered as a pioneering figure who significantly redefined the role of the First Lady in Ghana. As a dedicated advocate for women’s rights, she used her platform to champion social causes and empowerment initiatives across the country. Her family emphasized that her undying influence and contributions to the nation will be the central focus of the memorial service. The upcoming mass serves as a testament to her enduring impact on Ghanaian politics and society. Beyond her role alongside the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, her individual efforts in transforming the office of the First Lady and her commitment to advocacy continue to be recognized as a cornerstone of her legacy, inspiring future generations of leaders and activists.

Ghana secures re-election to UN Human Rights Council with 173 votes
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Ghana secures re-election to UN Human Rights Council with 173 votes

Ghana has successfully secured a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2027–2029 term, garnering 173 votes in a competitive global election. The result, which placed Ghana joint second globally, was formally acknowledged by President John Dramani Mahama during a commissioning ceremony for newly appointed ambassadors at Jubilee House. The President hailed the achievement as a testament to the nation's standing in the international community and its commitment to upholding global human rights standards. During the ceremony, President Mahama specifically commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for the strategic diplomatic campaign that led to the re-election. He emphasized the importance of Ghana’s role on the council and urged the Permanent Representative-designate to Geneva to be diligent in their duties, stressing the importance of adhering to international law and maintaining Ghana's reputation during their tenure. The President noted that the vote reflects the high level of confidence the global community has in Ghana’s democratic credentials. As part of its upcoming term, Ghana is expected to advocate for significant reforms in global health governance under the "Accra Reset" agenda. The government intends to use its platform to champion public health, trade, and labor rights alongside its core mandate of human rights protection. This membership provides Ghana with a renewed opportunity to shape global policy and ensure that the voices of developing nations are represented in the UN's human rights deliberations.

Ghana achieves Tier 1 ranking in 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report
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Ghana achieves Tier 1 ranking in 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report

Ghana has attained a Tier 1 ranking in the United States Department of State’s 2026 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, a milestone that signifies the country's full compliance with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. This achievement has been commended by anti-trafficking organization Challenging Heights, which noted the government’s intensified efforts and increased financial commitment to tackling human trafficking over the past year. Central to this improved ranking was a significant boost in fiscal support for victim services. In 2025, the Ghanaian government allocated GH₵3.452 million for victim services, representing an increase from the GH₵2.85 million provided in 2024. These funds facilitated the support of 2,331 trafficking victims, many of whom were foreign nationals. The government's enforcement actions also saw progress, with 222 trafficking cases investigated during the period, leading to 212 prosecutions and 28 convictions. James Kofi Annan, CEO of Challenging Heights, lauded the government's progress but emphasized that the Tier 1 status must be sustained through consistent action. While the ranking acknowledges that Ghana is meeting international standards, advocates point out that the volume of convictions remains relatively low compared to the number of investigations and prosecutions initiated. Annan stressed the importance of further increasing budgetary allocations for survivor services to ensure long-term rehabilitation and reintegration for those rescued from exploitation. Despite the celebratory news, challenges persist, particularly concerning exploitative child labor in the fishing industry on Volta Lake. Challenging Heights called for continued collaboration between the government, international partners, and civil society to address these deep-seated issues. Moving forward, the focus remains on maintaining the momentum of the 2025 interventions to ensure that Ghana does not slip back into lower tiers in future assessments.

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John Mahama suspends Yaw Ampofo Ankrah over World Cup visa controversy

President John Mahama has suspended the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, following a significant controversy involving visa arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The suspension is intended to facilitate a thorough and unobstructed investigation into the matter, ensuring that all administrative actions related to the international tournament meet the highest standards of transparency and integrity. The decision has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum, notably from the United Party (UP). Andrew Appiah Danquah, the Legal Director of the UP, publicly commended the President, describing the suspension as a clear indication of strong leadership. Danquah emphasized that the President's swift intervention highlights a commitment to addressing potential lapses in governance before they escalate. He argued that taking such steps during an active investigation is a hallmark of an administration dedicated to public accountability. In contrast to the UP’s praise, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has continued to voice dissatisfaction, calling for further sanctions against a wider range of government officials. Danquah addressed these demands directly, labeling the NPP's reaction as "much ado about nothing." He suggested that the opposition's persistent criticism lacks merit and is driven by political desperation rather than a sincere interest in institutional reform. According to Danquah, the NPP’s history and current rhetoric reveal a strategy focused more on undermining the government than on fostering genuine probity. As the investigations into the NSA's visa processes continue, the government has yet to name an interim head for the authority. The outcome of the probe is expected to have lasting implications for how Ghana manages its sports logistics for upcoming international competitions. For now, the administration remains focused on the legal and procedural reviews necessary to resolve the controversy and restore public confidence in the National Sports Authority's operations.