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.

President Mahama Dismisses State of Emergency Rumors as Foreign Minister Defends South Africa Repatriation
politics|

President Mahama Dismisses State of Emergency Rumors as Foreign Minister Defends South Africa Repatriation

President John Mahama has officially dismissed reports suggesting his administration intends to declare a state of emergency to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. Speaking during his recent visit to New York, the President clarified that while the environmental crisis remains a top priority, such a measure is a "last resort" that would unnecessarily restrict constitutional rights and freedoms. He emphasized that the government already possesses the legal tools required to address the situation and has made significant strides in clearing military-backed operations from nine major forest reserves. Mahama noted that the widespread nature of illegal mining across ten regions makes a state of emergency impractical, favoring instead targeted operations and permanent military deterrence. Detailing the progress of the anti-galamsey fight, the President highlighted that the military has successfully removed illegal miners from prioritized zones and is now establishing permanent camps to prevent their return. Specific efforts have also been directed at restoring heavily polluted water bodies, such as the Ankobra River, where mining equipment has been seized and destroyed. Despite the complexity of the issue, President Mahama maintained that the current strategy of clearing reserves and protecting water sources is the most effective way to tackle the environmental and community impacts of the trade without resorting to draconian legal measures. In a related engagement in New York, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa addressed the Ghanaian community regarding the recent evacuation of citizens from South Africa following xenophobic threats. Minister Ablakwa defended the government's decision to repatriate citizens, asserting that the safety and dignity of Ghanaians abroad is a non-negotiable priority. His comments came in response to reports of some returnees expressing regret over their return due to a perceived lack of job opportunities and government support. "If that is the thank you we get, no problem," Ablakwa remarked, emphasizing that the state's first duty is to preserve life in crisis situations, even when post-return integration remains a challenge. These high-level government interactions come amid a broader national conversation regarding governance, legal immunity, and freedom of expression. Recent public debates have centered on the confrontation between the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah over parliamentary immunity. Furthermore, the administration continues to manage significant fiscal challenges, including a US$235 million debt related to a desalination plant project. In response to growing concerns over speech-related arrests and online activities, President Mahama has recently called for moderation, urging law enforcement to exercise restraint to ensure that national security measures do not infringe upon the fundamental right to freedom of expression.

Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame is pictured in a studio setting wearing regal blue and gold traditional cloth. He is adorned with several layers of gold bead necklaces and armbands, holding a traditional staff while looking confidently at the camera.
politics|

Minister Agnes Naa Momo Lartey Sets 2026 Target for Affirmative Action as First Lady and Cabinet Advance Gender and Green Agendas

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called for a strategic partnership with the media to drive the effective implementation of Ghana’s Affirmative Action Act. Speaking at a sensitization program, Dr. Lartey outlined a clear roadmap for gender inclusion, targeting 30% women’s representation in leadership roles by 2026, with the goal of reaching 50% by 2030. She emphasized that the law is not merely a gender issue but a critical pillar for national development that benefits all marginalized groups. Dr. Charity Binka and other advocates joined the call, urging media practitioners to challenge stereotypes and monitor compliance to ensure the law translates into tangible social change. Complementing these domestic legislative efforts, First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama has elevated the discourse on women's empowerment to the global stage. Addressing an Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) event in New York, the First Lady urged African leaders to prioritize investments in resilient healthcare systems, education, and economic opportunities for women. She specifically highlighted the importance of integrating maternal care with HIV prevention and other essential services, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to global partnerships that secure the health and rights of women and children across the continent. In the environmental sector, Dr. Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has urged for the intentional preservation and expansion of green spaces in urban areas. During the closing of the 14th Ghana Garden and Flower Show in Accra, the Minister linked environmental sustainability directly to public health and economic growth. She encouraged stakeholders to explore plant-based solutions to climate challenges and urged current leaders to protect parks and gardens as a legacy for future generations. The event, supported by Stratcomm Africa and the Tree Crops Development Authority, underscored the growing importance of horticulture in Ghana's development strategy. Adding to the political discourse, popular rapper and activist Okyeame Kwame recently voiced strong support for female leadership, stating his readiness to campaign for a woman in a presidential race. He argued that women often bring a higher level of accountability to public office. Meanwhile, the office of Madina MP Dr. Francis-Xavier Sosu has assured the public of his steady recovery after he fainted during a leadership lecture at GIMPA. These events collectively reflect a period of active advocacy and reform in Ghana, as the government and civil society push for more inclusive, healthy, and sustainable national progress.

Gov’t directs release of 50,000 bags of grain to settle Ghanas obligation to ECOWAS
politics|

President Mahama Directs Release of 50,000 Grain Bags to ECOWAS as Ghana Records Agricultural Surplus

President John Mahama has instructed the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to release 50,000 bags of grain to fulfill Ghana’s outstanding obligations to ECOWAS. This directive addresses a 2018 borrowing arrangement intended to support the School Feeding Programme. Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, highlighted that the country is well-positioned to settle this debt following a significant boost in domestic production. In 2025, Ghana produced 4.6 million tonnes of maize, creating a substantial surplus that exceeds national demand and reinforces the country's food security position within the sub-region. Accompanying this production milestone is a notable turnaround in NAFCO’s financial health. The company shifted from a net loss of 19 billion cedis in 2024 to a net profit of 91.7 billion cedis in 2025. CEO George Abradu-Otoo attributed this success to enhanced management practices and operational efficiencies. To sustain this momentum, the government is pursuing efforts to establish food storage facilities in every district, ensuring that the current 20,433 metric tonnes of grain in storage can be expanded and managed effectively across the country. While the agricultural sector sees growth, the administration faces criticism over public transport and commodity pricing. Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, a Senior Fellow at Africa Policy Lens, has questioned why 100 buses imported from Egypt remain idle while commuters face an 8% increase in transport fares. Dr. Zaato emphasized the necessity of mass public transport for economic stability and urged the immediate deployment of the fleet. Similarly, the government’s recent adjustment of the cocoa producer price to GH¢42,400 per tonne for the 2026/2027 season has met resistance. Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh described the increase as a failure to meet farmers' expectations, claiming the hike does not reflect the true value of the farmers' labor. At the local government level, efforts to instill discipline and urban order are gaining traction in Kumasi. Since taking office in April 2025, Mayor King Zuba has spearheaded a campaign to remove unauthorized structures, clear drains, and install solar streetlights to improve safety. Although the city continues to struggle with traffic and littering, there is growing recognition of the Mayor’s commitment to enforcing regulations. These diverse developments in agriculture, transport, and local governance illustrate the complex landscape the Mahama administration is navigating as it seeks to balance international obligations with domestic service delivery.

Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum (left), Minister of Labour, Employment and Job Creation, in a discussion with Dr Bernice Welbeck, Executive Secretary of the National Labour Commission
politics|

Ghana’s Governance Reforms Gain Momentum as Stakeholders Debate Constitutional Amendments and Institutional Independence

Ghana’s constitutional reform process is transitioning from consultation to implementation, centering on a proposal to cap Parliament at 300 members. Under this plan, the current 276 constituency seats will remain, while 24 additional seats will be allocated through proportional representation to enhance the inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. However, the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has expressed significant opposition to certain government positions, with former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo advocating for reduced presidential appointment powers and more robust checks on executive authority. The IEA has specifically rejected proposals to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from four to five years, asserting that the current framework is sufficient for national development and democratic accountability. Parallel to these constitutional debates, the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) is calling for strengthened legal protections for oversight bodies. Dr. Valentin Kwasi Mensah recently highlighted the vulnerabilities of the Auditor-General, the Internal Audit Agency, and the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) to political interference. Referencing the removal of former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, the ICAG is pushing for budgetary autonomy and constitutional status for these agencies to safeguard their functionality. This move aligns with broader efforts to improve the governance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh noted pose significant economic risks if left without adequate statutory safeguards. In the labour sector, the Minister of Labour, Employment and Job Creation, Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, is leading the establishment of the Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC). Supported by President John Mahama, the Minister assured stakeholders that IPEC is designed to create a competitive compensation structure for the public sector without undermining the existing powers of SOE boards. Simultaneously, Minister Agyekum pledged to revitalize the National Labour Commission (NLC), which is currently operating with fewer than 50 of its required 147 personnel. These reforms aim to improve the resolution of labour disputes and ensure that the NLC can expand its services to northern Ghana, reducing the need for costly court litigation. Despite these legislative and institutional advancements, challenges persist in the energy and judicial sectors. The Chairman of Parliament’s Energy Committee, Emmanuel Bedzrah, has urged the Ministry of Finance to release $5.6 million owed to the Petroleum Commission to ensure its regulatory independence from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). Meanwhile, legal observers continue to raise alarms over the systemic failure to uphold the constitutional 48-hour rule for arrested individuals. Because courts often do not sit on weekends, administrative delays frequently lead to prolonged detentions, highlighting a critical gap between constitutional mandates and the reality of law enforcement that reformers must address to restore public trust in the justice system.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, addressing participants in the Next Steps High-Level Conference on Reparatory Justice in New York, USA
politics|

Foreign Minister Ablakwa Secures U.S. and German Support for Reparations and Rail Infrastructure at 81st UN General Assembly

On the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Ghana has significantly expanded its diplomatic footprint through a series of high-level engagements led by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey. A major breakthrough involves a formal commitment from the United States to collaborate with Ghana on reparatory justice and the restitution of cultural heritage, despite the U.S. recently voting against a UN resolution on the transatlantic slave trade. Minister Ablakwa emphasized that this engagement is a critical step toward a more just global order, citing the precedent set by American laws regarding the return of looted artifacts as a model for African cultural restitution. Parallel to these talks, Minister Ablakwa met with his German counterpart, Dr. Johann Wadephul, to solidify a strategic partnership focused on revamping Ghana's railway infrastructure and establishing structured labor mobility programs. The discussions aimed at creating legal pathways for skilled Ghanaian workers to migrate to Germany while simultaneously addressing the root causes of irregular migration. Germany further expressed support for Ghana’s reparatory justice agenda, marking a deepening of European cooperation. Additionally, Deputy Foreign Minister James Gyakye Quayson confirmed the reopening of Ghana's diplomatic mission in Dublin, Ireland, ending a closure that has persisted since 2009 due to past budgetary constraints. In the sector of social welfare, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey reinforced Ghana's partnership with UNICEF to combat child marriage and adolescent pregnancy. The collaboration focuses on enhancing birth registration systems to better identify vulnerable children and expanding the Livelihood Empowerment and Productive Inclusion Programme (LEPIP) to support at-risk young women and mothers. Dr. Lartey called for increased international financing for social protection mechanisms to sustain these efforts, a move UNICEF officials commended as vital for advancing the rights and wellbeing of children in Ghana. These diplomatic successes coincide with strengthening ties in the East, as Chinese Ambassador Cong Song highlighted a robust $14.1 billion bilateral trade volume between Ghana and China for 2025, representing a 19.3% growth. As global tensions fluctuate—evidenced by the recent U.S.-China summit in Washington focusing on AI strategic stability—Ghana continues to position itself as a proactive player on the world stage. By balancing infrastructure development, social protection, and the pursuit of historic justice, the current administration under President John Mahama is signaling a comprehensive approach to international relations that prioritizes both economic growth and national dignity.

134 former NPP MMDCEs of Akufo-Addo administration demand terminal benefits
politics|

NPP Internal Strain: 134 Former MMDCEs Demand Unpaid Benefits as National Executive Elections Approach

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares for its national executive elections on October 3, 2026, the party is facing significant internal pressure from its former local government appointees. A group of 134 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) who served under former President Nana Akufo-Addo has formally petitioned the Ministry of Finance for the payment of overdue terminal benefits. These officials, who remained in office until October 2021 at the request of the previous administration, claim they were unfairly excluded from payments that their successors have already received. The petition is directed to the current Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, seeking a resolution to what the group describes as a glaring oversight. This financial grievance highlights the administrative challenges lingering from the transition to the current government led by President John Mahama. Parallel to these administrative disputes, the race for national leadership positions is intensifying. Archibald Gamor Korletey, a candidate for the National Organiser position, has dismissed recent polling data that suggests he is not among the leading contenders. Korletey, who is currently ranked third on the ballot, argued that internal party dynamics and delegate preferences are too fluid for polls to accurately predict the outcome in Kumasi. He emphasized that the final decision rests solely with the delegates present on election day and expressed confidence that his grassroots-focused campaign would resonate with the voters despite pre-election rankings. Looking toward the 2028 general elections, Korletey suggested that public frustration over the rising cost of living and the financial burden of education could provide the NPP with a path back to power. He specifically criticized aspects of the Free Senior High School policy, noting that families still face significant out-of-pocket expenses. This strategic focus on economic hardship is being complemented by efforts to secure support from the party's international branches. Yakubu Alhassan, the NPP Canada Branch organiser known as BigMo, has publicly endorsed Justin Kodua Frimpong (JFK) for a leadership role, citing JFK's consistent engagement with the diaspora and his commitment to addressing the concerns of party members living outside Ghana. These developments collectively underscore a party in the midst of a critical organizational and strategic reset as it navigates its role in opposition.

A formal portrait of Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, the newly appointed Patron of the NDC UK and Ireland Aldershot Branch. He is pictured wearing a brown pinstriped traditional Ghanaian outfit and glasses, positioned in front of the Ghana national flag.
politics|

NDC Leadership Dynamics Shift as Asiedu Nketia Leads Survey and Internal Contests Intensify

A new Citizens Perception Survey has positioned the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, as the frontrunner for the party's future leadership suitability and unity. The survey, conducted between September 10 and 20, 2026, across 11 regions, revealed that 27.6% of respondents view Nketia as the most suitable candidate to lead the party, followed by Eric Opoku at 26.4%. This data emerges as the party navigates a complex period of internal reorganization and strategic positioning ahead of the 2028 general elections, all while aligning with the broader economic 'Reset Agenda' of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. The race for the party's National Chairmanship has gained further momentum with the formal entry of Akwasi Opong-Fosu, a former Member of Parliament for Amenfi East. During a press conference to announce his candidacy, Opong-Fosu criticized the aggressive 'theatre of war' culture often found in Ghanaian politics, advocating instead for a consultative and cooperative approach. He emphasized the necessity of empowering grassroots branches and returning to the party’s foundational principles to establish the NDC as a leading political standard in Africa. His call for decorum mirrors sentiments in the Atwima Kwanwoma constituency, where chairmanship aspirant Captain (Rtd.) Reuben Solomon Jabari and treasurer hopeful Daniel Basepwah have both called for peace following their recent successful vetting and balloting. However, internal discipline remains a challenge in several constituencies. In Awutu Senya East, Yusif Yunusah—husband of MP Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor—has petitioned for the disqualification of Deputy Communications Officer Cobby Wilson, alleging misconduct and the spread of unfounded claims against the MP. This follows the recent suspension of the constituency’s chairman for similar behavior. Conversely, in the Akatsi South constituency, all political activities have been somberly suspended following the death of Constituency Organiser Sullemana Seidu. Known affectionately as 'Sulley,' Seidu was a pivotal figure in grassroots mobilization, and his passing has led the party to halt branch meetings and campaign activities out of respect for his service since 2018. On the international front, the NDC continues to strengthen its diaspora network. Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, a member of the Council of State, has been appointed as the Patron of the Aldershot Branch of the NDC UK and Ireland Chapter. Kwamigah-Atokple has pledged to leverage international networks to attract investment and support President Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy policy. Meanwhile, at home, the party faces allegations of strategic maneuvering in Asante Akyem North, where former MP Collins Amankwah claims the NDC is covertly supporting an independent candidate to challenge the incumbent MP, Ohene Kwame Frimpong. These diverse developments—ranging from high-level surveys to localized disciplinary petitions—underscore a party actively reshaping its structure and strategy for the political cycles ahead.

Palgrave Boakye Danquah, a government spokesperson, is captured in a studio setting, gesturing with his finger while speaking emphatically. He is wearing a black collared shirt, glasses, and a patterned pocket square against a blue background with a blurred news screen.
politics|

Ghana Bar Association and Legal Experts Condemn EOCO’s Attempted Arrest of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah at Accra High Court

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA), legal scholars, and political figures have united in condemning the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for its recent attempt to arrest the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah. The incident, which occurred on September 23, 2026, at the Accra High Court premises, unfolded while the MP was acting in his capacity as a lawyer for a client in the ongoing "Ghana Jollof" case. Critics have labeled the operation as a breach of professional independence and a threat to the sanctity of the judiciary, raising urgent concerns about the methods employed by state investigative agencies. The GBA, in a statement signed by President Efua Ghartey and National Secretary Kwaku Gyau Baffour, emphasized that maintaining the professional independence of lawyers during court proceedings is essential to uphold the judiciary. This sentiment was echoed by former MP and lawyer Inusah Fuseini, who described the court environment as "too volatile" for such an operation and questioned the legality of a warrantless arrest when no crime had been committed in the officers' presence. Legal analyst and lecturer Lenin Nicholas Anane Agyei further argued that the Economic and Organised Crime Office Act (2010) does not criminalize a refusal to honor an invitation, suggesting that EOCO lacked the necessary legal grounds to attempt a forced detention without a court-issued warrant served through the Speaker of Parliament. From a political and security perspective, the confrontation has sparked fears regarding the state of Ghana’s democracy. Dr. Palgrave Boakye Danquah of the NPP warned that the aggressive tactics utilized by EOCO officials—which included a risky approach to the MP’s moving vehicle—were reminiscent of the repressive PNDC era of the 1980s. Security consultant Richard Kumadoe also critiqued the agency's conduct, noting a significant breakdown in communication and professional standards. Kumadoe highlighted that the officers reportedly failed to properly identify themselves, creating a chaotic situation that could have been avoided had established protocols for engaging public officials and legal practitioners been followed. For his part, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah has strongly denied the allegations underpinning the EOCO investigation, which reportedly involve claims of GHS 2.2 million in "excessive legal fees" paid to his law firm, SBA and Partners. The MP dismissed these assertions as baseless, refuting any financial transactions with the Managing Director of SIC Life Savings and Loans or involvement in a purported judicial property sale. As EOCO reviews video evidence of the standoff to determine its next course of action, the incident remains a flashpoint in the national debate over the balance between investigative powers, parliamentary privileges, and the protection of the rule of law.

A composite image featuring Ghanaian satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) on the left and politician Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh on the right. KSM is seen wearing a colorful patterned shirt and dark-rimmed glasses, while Opoku Prempeh is dressed in a formal blue suit and tie, gesturing with his hand.
politics|

NPP and NDC Clash Over 3.9-Tonne Cocaine Seizure as NACOC Rejects Allegations of High-Level Collusion

Ghana’s political landscape has been rocked by a massive narcotics scandal following the seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the port of Dunkirk, France, a shipment believed to have originated from Ghanaian shores. The record-breaking bust has ignited a fierce partisan debate in Parliament, with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority demanding the immediate dismissal of security heads and a full parliamentary inquiry into the breach. However, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority have pushed back, defending the integrity of the nation's security apparatus while highlighting significant enforcement successes achieved earlier in 2025. Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, has led the Minority's charge, claiming he warned the government in April 2025 about aircraft allegedly used for drug trafficking. Fordjour expressed dismay that his warnings were dismissed and alleged that he was subsequently targeted for arrest by the National Intelligence Bureau. Further heightening tensions, NPP MP Nana Agyei Baffour claimed to possess intelligence of a cocaine manufacturing hub within the country. This has drawn sharp criticism from legal practitioners and satirists alike, including Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM), who questioned why such critical information was being withheld from security agencies for political leverage rather than being shared to protect national security. In a robust defense, Alexander Twum-Barimah, the Deputy Director-General of NACOC, categorically denied that the commission's leadership has been compromised. Speaking on JoyNews, Twum-Barimah dismissed Fordjour’s allegations as misinformation and clarified that recent operations have actually seen significant domestic interceptions, including 73 parcels of cocaine that were successfully prevented from leaving the country. He urged political actors to stop the "politicisation" of drug seizures, noting that narcotics trafficking is a global challenge that Ghana has battled across various administrations. Meanwhile, Majority Leader James Agalga attributed some of the current vulnerabilities to a 2018 policy under the former Akufo-Addo administration that removed NACOC from mandatory port inspections, an assertion that has been challenged by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni. Amidst the accusations, civil society and former lawmakers have expressed deep skepticism regarding the effectiveness of a parliamentary probe. Dr. John Osae-Kwapong of CDD-Ghana and former MP Inusah Fuseini both warned that a partisan inquiry would likely yield no tangible results, citing a history of unproductive parliamentary investigations. They argued that the focus should instead remain on strengthening inter-agency cooperation and identifying systemic weaknesses to protect Ghana’s international reputation. As the fallout continues, calls for a unified, non-partisan approach to border security and narcotics control have intensified, with stakeholders emphasizing that the scale of the Dunkirk shipment suggests a sophisticated network that requires professional intelligence work rather than political blame-shifting.

President John Dramani Mahama is captured speaking at an event, gesturing with his hand while seated in an ornate chair. He is wearing a traditional Ghanaian smock (batakari) with black, white, and red stripes, positioned behind a microphone against a solid yellow background.
politics|

President John Mahama Advocates for National Dialogue on Social Media Regulation and Information Integrity

President John Mahama has called for a comprehensive national conversation on the regulation of TikTok and other digital platforms to address the rise of misinformation and online vitriol. Speaking at a townhall meeting with Ghanaians in New York City, the President emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to navigate the complexities of modern media. He highlighted the "democratization of information," where the ability of any individual to publish content via a smartphone has challenged the traditional role of journalism and led to the rapid spread of unverified claims through algorithmic amplification. Mahama noted that while digital media offers democratic potential, it requires a framework to ensure accountability and information integrity. Addressing the personal nature of social media criticism, President Mahama described himself as having "crocodile skin," asserting that he remains resilient and unfazed by insults directed at him. He specifically addressed recent arrests of citizens for insulting the presidency, clarifying that these actions were not carried out at his behest and that he often learns of such police interventions through news reports. Mahama stressed that his push for regulation is not born of personal sensitivity but a commitment to ensuring that free expression does not transform into a license for harmful content. He urged for a clear distinction between legitimate, lawful criticism and destructive harassment, cautioning against excessive police actions that could lead to overreach in the absence of clear guidelines. The President proposed that key stakeholders, including the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), lead a series of forums and workshops to establish media guidelines. During his address, he cited Channel One TV as a model of responsible journalism, contrasting the accountability of established media organizations with the anonymity often found on social media platforms. By involving civil society and professional bodies, Mahama suggested that Ghana can reach a consensus on whether to establish specific regulations or uphold broader principles of expression, ensuring the regulatory landscape is shaped by collective decision-making rather than unilateral mandates. Mahama’s call for dialogue reflects a broader global struggle to balance digital governance with democratic values. He emphasized that the challenges posed by new media are not unique to Ghana, as emerging and established democracies alike grapple with the implications of unchecked digital discourse. The proposed forum is intended to bring together experts, legal professionals, and digital creators to determine a path forward that protects the right to free speech while safeguarding the public from the harms of misinformation and hate speech. This move signals a shift toward a more structured approach to digital policy as the country navigates the evolving media environment.

President John Mahama and UN Secretary-General António Guterres are seen shaking hands during an official diplomatic meeting. The scene is set against a blue backdrop with the UN emblem, flanked by the national flag of Ghana and the UN flag.
politics|

President Mahama Champions 'Accra Reset Agenda' and Global Reparations at 81st UN General Assembly

President John Dramani Mahama has asserted Ghana's and Africa's positions on the global stage during the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, centering his engagements on sovereignty, economic justice, and regional security. Through high-level bilateral talks with outgoing UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, the President championed the "Accra Reset Agenda," a framework aimed at achieving health and economic independence. Secretary-General Guterres commended President Mahama for his leadership on global reparations and his initiatives to reform international diplomacy, particularly as West Africa navigates complex peace and security challenges. President Mahama also utilized the global platform to demand a permanent seat for Africa on the UN Security Council, arguing that the continent must be treated as an equal partner rather than a recipient of charity. On the sidelines, the President met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng to further strengthen Ghana-China relations, focusing on mutual cooperation and transformation in a shifting global landscape. During his address and various forums, the President offered a sharp critique of the "debt trap" stifling African development, noting that African nations often borrow at rates eight times higher than the global average. He highlighted that Africa loses approximately $90 billion annually to illicit financial flows—such as mis-invoicing by Western corporations—and $120 billion to debt servicing, far outstripping the Official Development Assistance received. To rectify these imbalances, he called for a comprehensive reform of the international financial architecture, specifically advocating for Africa's share in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to increase from 4.5% to 10%. On regional stability, President Mahama traced the current terrorism surge in the Sahel to the destabilization of Libya following the US and French-led intervention. He warned that no nation, including Ghana, is immune to these threats and emphasized the need for an integrated African Union to bolster collective security. Furthermore, he defended Ghana's recent rejection of a proposed US health compact, labeling its conditions—which included sharing national medical records and allowing uninspected medical imports—as "humiliating" and an affront to sovereignty. This move underscores the "Accra Reset" initiative's goal of achieving self-sufficiency in medicine and vaccine production. The President concluded his engagements with a moral plea for cultural justice, demanding the return of African artefacts and human remains held in foreign nations. He insisted that these items are "not collectibles" and that their restitution is essential for restoring the dignity of African peoples. Domestically, President Mahama maintained a firm stance on accountability, issuing a stern warning to his own appointees during a meeting with Ghanaians in New York. He stated that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) would be empowered to investigate corruption after they leave office, reinforcing his administration's commitment to transparency and the principle that accountability does not cease upon exiting government.

GBA raises concern over attempted arrest of lawyer at court premises while representing a client
politics|

GBA Condemns EOCO for Attempted Arrest of Manhyia South MP as ECG Workers Mobilize for Nationwide Protest

On September 23 and 24, 2026, Ghana’s political and legal landscape faced significant tension as the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) formally condemned an attempt by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to arrest Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, within the premises of the Accra High Court. Simultaneously, unions representing workers of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) announced a nationwide demonstration set for September 29, 2026. These events highlight a week of mounting friction between state agencies, organized labor, and the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, touching on issues of judicial independence and the management of national utilities. The incident involving Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah occurred on September 23 after he represented a client in court. Awuah reported being approached by an unidentified EOCO official who attempted to take him into custody without providing proper identification. The GBA characterized the attempt as an assault on the legal profession and a threat to the independence of lawyers, warning that such actions undermine the rule of law and public confidence in the justice system. The association, led by President Efua Ghartey, emphasized that investigations involving legal professionals must respect constitutional guarantees and professional privileges, urging state agencies to strictly adhere to due process to avoid setting dangerous precedents. Adding to the political pressure, the Senior Staff Union and Junior Staff Union of the ECG, coordinated by the Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU), have mobilized members across all operational regions for a massive protest against proposed Private Sector Participation (PSP) in the company. The workers, who have been wearing red armbands in solidarity, intend to march toward various regional offices to present a petition to President John Dramani Mahama. The unions argue that private investment in the national electricity distributor is not in the public's best interest and have signaled their intent to continue their opposition until the government reconsider its stance on the PSP proposal. In the realm of regional governance and economic development, Bono East Regional Minister Francis Owusu Antwi expressed sharp disappointment during a site visit to the 24-hour economy market project in Kintampo. Despite the project’s importance to local commerce, the Minister revealed that less than one percent of the work has been completed by the contractor, S. D. H. Construction Limited. Minister Antwi described the firm as the poorest performer among contractors in the region and has initiated sanctions. Meanwhile, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has been championing economic inclusion, recently urging financial institutions like Absa Bank Ghana to expand financial access for women-owned businesses and youth entrepreneurs to stimulate growth in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors. These developments coincide with growing calls for institutional accountability regarding human rights and police conduct. The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) is currently demanding an independent probe into the death of teacher Abu Seidu following a police encounter in the Savannah Region, while a Damongo Circuit Court judge recently ordered medical care for two accused persons who appeared with visible injuries allegedly sustained during police torture. Collectively, these events underscore a critical period for the Mahama administration as it navigates the complexities of infrastructure delivery, labor relations, and the necessity of maintaining human rights standards within state law enforcement agencies.