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.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is captured in a close-up shot during a formal event. He is wearing rimless glasses and a crisp white shirt while looking attentively forward, with other blurred figures visible in the background.
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Ekua Amoakoh defends NPP health record after campaign research

Dr. Ekua Amoakoh, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Health Committee and spokesperson for 2024 flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has detailed the findings of her extensive research into the party's health sector performance. Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, she explained that her work involved synthesizing data from various health authorities to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based account of the NPP’s achievements. Dr. Amoakoh admitted that the process was challenging, as her findings sometimes contradicted popular political claims, leading to internal disagreements within the party as she sought to maintain a factual narrative during the campaign. Beyond her research, Dr. Amoakoh shared the personal and professional sacrifices she made to enter the political sphere. She revealed that she set aside her ambition to become a maxillofacial surgeon, a specialized field where she had hoped to treat conditions such as cleft palates, to focus on governance and leadership. Although her transition into active politics occurred earlier than she had originally anticipated, she emphasized that her interest in public service has been a lifelong pursuit. She cited her early experience as a student leader, where she frequently advocated for her peers in academic settings, as a primary motivation for her career change. Dr. Amoakoh’s dedication to the NPP was significantly strengthened by the policy initiatives of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. She noted that she had initially felt detached from the party until she was re-engaged by his innovative economic solutions, specifically highlighting the domestic gold purchase program. Drawing comparisons to the rapid development of nations like South Korea and China, she argued that Dr. Bawumia’s proactive governance style during his tenure as Vice President was essential for creating the economic growth necessary to benefit the Ghanaian youth. In her assessment of the political landscape, Dr. Amoakoh criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its portrayal of the NPP's leadership and record. She urged for an impartial evaluation of political promises across the board, maintaining that objective research should guide public perception of governance. Despite the outcome of the 2024 elections, Dr. Amoakoh’s reflections highlight her continued commitment to a governance style focused on tangible results and the professional sacrifices required of those seeking to influence Ghana’s development.

A close-up photograph of a Ghanaian official, likely the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, speaking passionately into a microphone. He is wearing a white branded cap and a white shirt, gesturing with a clenched fist to emphasize his point during an official event.
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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah tasks five mining cooperatives with land restoration

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has officially inaugurated five new small-scale mining cooperatives in the Western Region with a mandate to balance gold extraction with environmental preservation. Speaking at a ceremony in Nkroful, the Minister emphasized that while the government supports the economic opportunities provided by the mining sector, these must not come at the expense of the environment. He issued a clear directive to the newly formed groups: they must extract gold responsibly and ensure that all degraded lands are systematically reclaimed. During the inauguration, Minister Buah presented the cooperatives with their official permits, marking a significant step in the government's push for a more regulated and legal small-scale mining industry. He noted that effective regulation is the key to changing the public's perception of the sector, which has often been associated with environmental destruction. By operating within the established legal framework, the Minister stated that these cooperatives can demonstrate that mining can be both profitable and sustainable. Supporting the Minister's call, Mr. Akwasi Adjei Bawuah, the Regional Director of the Department of Cooperatives, highlighted the importance of transparency and safety in the operations of these new societies. He urged the members to maintain high standards of internal governance and to ensure a fair distribution of profits. Mr. Bawuah further stressed that the cooperatives' responsibilities include proactive environmental stewardship, such as tree planting and the restoration of topsoil after mining activities are completed. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to formalize the small-scale mining sector and protect local ecosystems. By organizing miners into formal cooperatives, the government aims to create an accountable system that provides stable livelihoods while mitigating the impact of gold extraction. The success of the five groups in Nkroful is expected to serve as a benchmark for future cooperative mining projects across the country.

Winneba: Afenyo-Markin commissions police apartments at Fetteh-Osakam
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Alexander Afenyo-Markin commissions police apartments in Winneba

The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has inaugurated a new block of residential apartments for the Ghana Police Service in Fetteh-Osakam, Winneba. The project was commissioned as part of the MP's "The Effutu Dream" agenda, a development framework aimed at transforming the constituency through improved infrastructure and enhanced public services. During the commissioning ceremony, Afenyo-Markin underscored the critical link between security and regional development. He argued that providing decent accommodation for security personnel is not merely a gesture of welfare but a strategic necessity for effective policing. According to the Minority Leader, sustainable development is contingent upon a foundation of safety and security, which in turn fosters public confidence and encourages economic activity within the community. The MP also used the occasion to call for professionalism within the service, urging police officers to ensure equality and fairness in the discharge of their duties. He emphasized that the law must be applied consistently to all citizens, regardless of their status or political affiliations. This project is reportedly one of several initiatives planned for security agencies in the area, as the Minority Leader reiterated his ongoing commitment to strengthening the local security infrastructure to protect the people of Effutu and beyond.

Zakaria Abdulai faces calls for disqualification from NDC constituency race
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Zakaria Abdulai faces calls for disqualification from NDC constituency race

Prominent voices within and outside the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are calling for the immediate disqualification of Zakaria Abdulai from the party’s upcoming constituency elections. Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), is currently facing allegations of sexually abusing 16 students. The calls for his removal from the political race follow his interdiction by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the commencement of a formal police investigation into the matter. Former NDC Member of Parliament Peter Kwakye Ackah has been a leading voice in the demand for action, arguing that the party’s vetting committee must bar Abdulai to protect the NDC’s reputation. Speaking on Adom TV, Ackah emphasized that party membership should never serve as a shield for individuals accused of such heinous crimes. He warned that allowing Abdulai to contest for a constituency leadership position would cause significant damage to the party's image and urged high-ranking officials, including President John Mahama and the Minister of Education, to ensure justice is served. International corporate lawyer Victoria Bright has also joined the call, urging the NDC to formally dissociate itself from the embattled headmaster. Bright characterized Abdulai’s attempt to seek political office while under such serious scrutiny as a breach of public trust. She argued that individuals facing allegations of this nature should not be allowed to gain political influence, stressing that the priority must remain the protection of students and the integrity of the legal process. Bright insisted on full accountability through the courts if the allegations are proven true. The scandal has already had severe repercussions at Obuasi SHTS, where student unrest led to the damage of school property and the temporary closure of the institution. As the police and the GES continue their respective investigations, the NDC is under increasing pressure to demonstrate its commitment to child safety and ethical leadership by preventing Abdulai from participating in the internal party polls.

Ghana to post teachers, nurses to U.S. Virgin Islands under new bilateral accord
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Ghana to send teachers and nurses to U.S. Virgin Islands

Ghana has reached a bilateral agreement with the U.S. Virgin Islands to export skilled labor in the healthcare and education sectors. This partnership, intended to address workforce shortages in the Caribbean territory, will be formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) scheduled for signing in November 2026. The signing ceremony is expected to take place in Ghana, solidifying a structured framework for the recruitment of qualified Ghanaian professionals to work in the territory. The agreement follows high-level discussions between a Ghanaian delegation, led by Gilbert Attipoe, and officials from the U.S. Virgin Islands, including Governor Albert Bryan Jr. The talks focused on creating a transparent recruitment process that ensures the deployment of highly skilled experts while enhancing diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two regions. Although the specific numbers of teachers and nurses to be recruited and the exact qualifications required have not yet been made public, the initiative is designed to provide a secure and official pathway for Ghanaians to practice their professions internationally. This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to leverage Ghana's human capital through international labor partnerships. By establishing these formal channels, the government aims to create diverse career opportunities for its citizens while addressing critical labor gaps in other nations. The planned pact with the U.S. Virgin Islands follows similar international arrangements, such as a recent MoU with Columbus, Ohio, for the ethical recruitment of nurses and the recent deployment of healthcare professionals to Antigua and Barbuda. These efforts underscore Ghana's growing role in the global labor market for essential services.

A close-up photograph of Ghanaian politician Alexander Afenyo-Markin wearing a light pink shirt while gesturing with his hands during a media appearance. He is set against a background featuring a brick wall and studio lighting, with a visible watermark from the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.
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Alexander Afenyo-Markin urged to resign following extortion allegations

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament, is facing mounting pressure to resign from his leadership position and discontinue a defamation lawsuit against Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board. These calls follow allegations of extortion made by Mr. Gyamfi and a recent Accra High Court ruling that struck out Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s legal challenge due to procedural inadequacies. While the court did not rule on the substance of the claims, the dismissal of the case has triggered a fresh wave of criticism regarding the Minority Leader's handling of the matter. Emmanuel Kotin, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Security and Counterterrorism, has argued that the Effutu Member of Parliament should step aside to preserve the integrity of both the Minority caucus and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Mr. Kotin described the Minority Leader's legal strategy as defective and cautioned that the ongoing controversy could damage the party's reputation if not addressed promptly. He emphasized that a resignation would be a strategic move to prevent the extortion allegations from overshadowing the legislative work of the Minority and the broader interests of the party. In a parallel assessment, private legal practitioner Austin Kwabena Brako-Powers has advised Mr. Afenyo-Markin to abandon further litigation. The advice follows the High Court's decision to strike out the defamation suit based on procedural errors. Mr. Brako-Powers suggested that the original legal action was a provocation that should have been avoided, warning that prolonging the dispute through the courts could lead to significant political repercussions. He urged the Minority Leader to discontinue the case to avoid further public and political scrutiny. The dispute originated from public comments made by Sammy Gyamfi, who labeled Mr. Afenyo-Markin an "extortionist," a claim the Minority Leader has vehemently denied. Although his legal team has indicated a desire to pursue the matter further despite the recent court setback, stakeholders remain concerned about the potential for prolonged political fallout. The situation highlights growing internal and external pressure on the NPP leadership to manage the legal and reputational risks associated with the high-profile allegation.

Election Watch Ghana calls for reforms to Electoral Commission appointments
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Election Watch Ghana calls for reforms to Electoral Commission appointments

Election Watch Ghana and other prominent stakeholders are advocating for urgent constitutional reforms to safeguard the independence and neutrality of the Electoral Commission (EC). The calls follow the recent appointment of Dr. Joseph Kwaku Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairpersons by President John Mahama, a move that has triggered debate over the potential for partisan bias within the nation’s electoral body. Advocates argue that the current legal framework contains structural vulnerabilities that allow for the appointment of politically affiliated individuals, which they believe undermines public confidence in the electoral process. Duncan Amoah, the Executive Director of COPEC, highlighted that the President’s extensive appointment powers frequently lead to partisan disputes, regardless of which party is in office. He noted that the cyclical nature of these criticisms—where the opposition routinely attacks the appointments made by the incumbent—indicates a deep-seated institutional weakness rather than an issue with specific individuals. Similarly, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways Alhassan Suhuyini suggested that a proper "reset" of the commission would involve establishing a transparent, merit-based selection process that prioritizes integrity and credibility, free from partisan influence. Mark Ewusi, the Convenor of Election Watch Ghana, emphasized that while the current appointments cannot be easily reversed due to strict constitutional procedures for removal, the legislative gaps must be addressed to protect future elections. He expressed support for calls from the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) for a comprehensive constitutional review. Ewusi warned that without a clear prohibition against politically active individuals holding sensitive EC positions, the foundation of the country's democracy remains at risk. The consensus among these observers is that the focus should shift from criticizing individual appointees to reforming the underlying appointment process. By instituting a more inclusive and transparent mechanism for selecting EC leadership, stakeholders believe the government can ensure the commission remains a neutral arbiter. As public trust is essential for peaceful elections, these groups are urging the President and national leadership to engage in a broad dialogue on strengthening the EC’s institutional integrity.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is captured in a profile view while attending a public event, surrounded by several individuals in traditional attire. A person standing behind him is wearing a smock prominently featuring the New Patriotic Party (NPP) elephant logo, suggesting a political gathering or party function.
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia urges NPP unity to secure 2028 parliamentary majority

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the 2028 elections, has called on party members to prioritize unity as they prepare for the next general election cycle. Speaking during his thank-you tour in the Bono East Region, the former Vice President emphasized that internal cohesion is the foundation upon which the party’s future electoral success will be built. He expressed confidence that the party has successfully navigated its internal executive elections and is now positioned to move forward as a unified force, urging supporters to set aside differences and focus on the common goal of winning the next national polls. Addressing party faithful in Kintampo, Dr. Bawumia stressed that securing a significant parliamentary majority is essential for the effective governance of the country. He argued that a strong presence in the legislature would empower a future NPP administration to implement its socio-economic agenda and drive national development more efficiently. He urged grassroots organizers and polling station executives to intensify their efforts on the ground, noting that the strength of the party lies in its local structures and their ability to mobilize voters effectively in every constituency. During the visit, Dr. Bawumia also engaged with the local Muslim community in Kintampo, where he made a personal donation of GH₵30,000 to support their community activities and welfare. He used the occasion to call for their prayers and continued support for the party, highlighting the important role that religious and community leaders play in fostering national peace and stability. This gesture was seen as a reinforcement of his longstanding commitment to inclusive engagement with various religious and social groups across Ghana. The tour follows the NPP's recent internal processes to elect new executives across various levels of the party structure. Dr. Bawumia praised the smooth conduct of these elections and described the resolution of internal wranglings as a sign of political maturity. By focusing on reconciliation and the consolidation of support in key regions like Bono East, the flagbearer aims to build a robust and disciplined campaign machine well ahead of the 2028 polls, ensuring that the NPP remains a formidable contender in the national political landscape.

Four newly appointed Ghanaian envoys are shown standing during a formal swearing-in ceremony, holding holy books and documents as they recite their oaths. They are dressed in a mix of formal Western suits and colorful traditional Kente cloth, representing Ghana's cultural heritage in a diplomatic setting.
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President John Dramani Mahama tasks four new envoys with economic diplomacy

President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned and sworn in four new ambassadors to represent Ghana in Angola, Qatar, Israel, and the United Nations Office in Geneva. During the ceremony in Accra, the President emphasized that these appointments are central to his administration’s "Reset Agenda," which seeks to align Ghana's foreign policy with its domestic economic objectives. He charged the envoys to move beyond routine diplomatic duties and actively pursue partnerships that bring tangible benefits to the Ghanaian people through trade and investment. The newly appointed envoys include Nana Antwiwaa Dodoo for Angola, Louis Kwame Obeng for Qatar, Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable for Israel, and Jedidiah Reuben Adogla for the UN Office in Geneva. President Mahama specifically tasked the group with attracting foreign direct investment and expanding market access for local businesses. He noted that their missions are critical to enhancing Ghana’s global standing and fostering international collaborations that support skills development and industrial growth back home. Beyond economic interests, the President underscored the protection and welfare of Ghanaians living abroad as a top priority. He called for the delivery of efficient and professional consular services, urging the ambassadors to maintain vigilance and discipline in their roles. He reminded the diplomats that they are the primary points of contact for citizens in their respective jurisdictions and must remain responsive to the needs and safety of the Ghanaian diaspora. Addressing broader geopolitical issues, President Mahama reiterated Ghana’s commitment to international partnerships, including deepening engagement with the BRICS countries to diversify the nation's economic ties. Regarding the mission to Israel, he reinforced Ghana’s support for a viable two-state solution for Palestine as a cornerstone of international peace. The President concluded by urging the diplomats to deliver measurable results that align with the country's developmental goals and long-term prosperity.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces $250,000 ECOWAS relief for flood victims
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces $250,000 ECOWAS relief for flood victims

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that Ghana has received $250,000 in relief funding from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This contribution, which amounts to approximately GH₵3 million, is intended to support victims of the severe floods that struck on June 29, 2026. The announcement was made during the official launch of the National Consultative Committee on Regional Integration (NCCRI), a body tasked with overseeing the implementation of ECOWAS initiatives in Ghana. The funds have been transferred to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) to facilitate the distribution of aid. Minister Ablakwa noted that the government chose an independent agency to manage the process to ensure transparency and objective beneficiary selection. By using ADRA, the administration aims to ensure that resources are directed efficiently to those most in need without political interference, addressing the urgent requirements of over 38,000 affected individuals. The disaster in June 2026 was one of the most significant recent weather events in the country, displacing more than 7,700 households and resulting in at least 15 confirmed fatalities. The floods caused extensive damage to property and livelihoods, leaving many communities in a precarious state. This ECOWAS intervention provides a necessary boost to ongoing local relief efforts led by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other humanitarian partners. The inauguration of the NCCRI highlights Ghana's deepening commitment to regional integration and collective crisis response. While the $250,000 donation offers immediate assistance, the committee's formation signals a long-term approach to tackling regional challenges and improving disaster preparedness. Stakeholders have emphasized that such support must be complemented by improved national flood prevention measures and infrastructure development to reduce the impact of future seasonal rains.

Vice President of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, is pictured delivering a speech at the Global South Academic Forum 2026. She stands at a red podium decorated with white flowers, with the official seal of the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana visible in the bottom right corner.
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Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang urges Global South to prioritize strong institutions

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called on Global South nations to shift their focus from merely celebrating historical political independence to building robust institutions and effective governance structures. Speaking at the 2026 Global South Academic Forum in Shanghai, China, she emphasized that sustainable economic development and a fairer global order depend on the strength and adaptation of these domestic systems rather than political milestones alone. The Vice President highlighted China's rapid development trajectory as a significant source of lessons for other developing nations. She noted that China's transformation provides valuable insights into long-term planning, industrialization, and poverty reduction. However, Professor Opoku-Agyemang cautioned that these lessons should not be replicated blindly; instead, she argued that each country must adapt such experiences to fit its unique socio-economic context through a process of mutual learning and rigorous policy assessment. Addressing the need for enhanced South-South cooperation, Professor Opoku-Agyemang advocated for deeper collaboration in education, technology, and innovation. She stressed that as emerging technologies continue to reshape global economies, nations within the Global South must work together on research and development to remain competitive. This cooperation, she noted, should extend to advocating for fairer international financial arrangements and ensuring stronger representation within international institutions to reflect contemporary global realities. Professor Opoku-Agyemang concluded by reiterating that the future of the Global South hinges on continuous institutional reform and the ability to build productive, self-sustaining economies. By focusing on critical infrastructure and high-quality education, she argued that nations can successfully transition from their historical struggles for independence toward a future defined by effective governance, innovation, and shared prosperity.

Who gave Cabinet the authority to decide for over 34 million Ghanaians to join BRICS without Parliamentary and public consultation? - Hassan Ayariga, leader of APC
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John Mahama defends Ghana's formal application for BRICS partner status

President John Dramani Mahama has defended his Cabinet’s decision to formally apply for partner status with the BRICS bloc, describing the move as a strategic effort to diversify Ghana’s development partnerships. The announcement, which followed a Cabinet meeting on October 6, 2026, has sparked a significant debate over the country’s foreign policy direction and the extent of executive authority in committing the nation to major geopolitical alliances. President Mahama emphasized that the partnership aims to enhance South-South cooperation, with a specific focus on trade, investment, and industrial growth. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, supporting the President’s stance, clarified that the government is seeking "partner status" rather than full membership. Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Ablakwa argued that this approach aligns with the independent foreign policy tradition established by Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and the Non-Aligned Movement. He dismissed concerns regarding potential friction with the United States, pointing out that even Western powers engage in strategic trade with BRICS nations. Ablakwa asserted that Ghana must maintain the autonomy to pursue beneficial international partnerships driven by national interest. However, the move has met stiff opposition from Hassan Ayariga, the founder and leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), and the Minority in Parliament. In a press statement issued on October 17, 2026, Ayariga questioned the Cabinet’s authority to make such a consequential decision without broad public and parliamentary consultation. Citing Article 1(1) of the 1992 Constitution, he asserted that sovereignty belongs to the citizens and that major international agreements must involve the people’s representatives to ensure transparency and accountability. The Minority in Parliament has joined the call for transparency, demanding a formal briefing on the implications of the BRICS application. They have expressed concerns about the potential geopolitical impact on Ghana's existing international relations and the long-term obligations of the partnership. While the government maintains that the partnership will supplement rather than replace relationships with traditional partners, critics insist that any formal move toward the bloc requires comprehensive parliamentary oversight and public engagement to protect the national interest.