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.

Andrei Ordash, Russian Ambassador to Ghana
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President Mahama to Attend Russia-Africa Summit as Ghana Navigates Shifting Global Political Landscapes

Ghana is positioning itself as a strategic partner on the global stage, with President John Dramani Mahama confirmed to attend the upcoming Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow from October 28-29. Russian Ambassador Andrei Ordash emphasized that the summit offers Ghana a vital opportunity to attract investment, enhance market access, and foster cooperation in security and technology. This diplomatic push is mirrored in North America, where the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S. K. Bagbin, recently urged the Ewe diaspora to transform their cultural networks into investment platforms. Speaking in Washington, D.C., Bagbin called for structured pathways to move beyond remittances toward sustainable wealth creation, highlighting the diaspora's essential role in Ghana's national development. While Ghana strengthens its international ties, the United States is experiencing significant domestic and diplomatic friction under the administration of President Donald Trump. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has announced an immediate ban on CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House, labeling their reporting as "fiction" and "lies." The move has been condemned by media advocacy groups as an unconstitutional assault on press freedom. Simultaneously, tensions have escalated between Washington and Pretoria following new U.S. visa restrictions announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. South Africa has strongly criticized these curbs, which Rubio attributed to the alleged persecution of the country's white minority—a claim South African officials argue is based on misinformation from fringe groups. In Europe, security concerns are mounting as French President Emmanuel Macron warns of intensified Russian hybrid attacks. Macron has ordered new protection plans for critical infrastructure following recent drone strikes and cyber threats aimed at weakening European support for Ukraine. The European Union is also moving to regulate the digital landscape with the proposed EU Kids Act, which seeks to ban social media access for children under 13 and restrict usage for those aged 13-15. These measures aim to enhance online safety but face criticism over privacy concerns regarding age verification processes. Meanwhile, in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, authorities are struggling with a migration crisis after a record influx of over 70,000 people led to overcrowding and local protests. Broader international cooperation continues elsewhere, as Tanzania prepares to host the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha this October. The assembly will focus on inclusive governance, maritime security, and the ethics of military AI, while also electing a new IPU president. In the Middle East, a U.S. delegation reportedly held direct talks with Houthi representatives in Oman to secure assurances against attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. Collectively, these developments underscore a volatile period of geopolitical realignment, where nations must balance economic aspirations with emerging security threats and shifting administrative policies in the West.

Dr Gideon Boako — NPP Member of Parliament for Tano North
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President Mahama Outlines Infrastructure Goals as Ahafo Chiefs Demand Accelerated Development

President John Mahama has signaled a major push for national infrastructure development, centering on the commencement of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway and addressing specific developmental gaps in the Ahafo Region. During a high-level meeting at the Jubilee House, the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, led by Barima Twereku Ampem III, petitioned the President for the establishment of a degree-awarding institution, the completion of abandoned Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) projects, and improved healthcare facilities. In response, President Mahama assured the traditional leaders that his administration would deliver regional hospitals and a tertiary institution by the end of his term, while also calling on mining giants like Newmont to deepen their corporate social responsibility within their host communities. A cornerstone of the government’s infrastructure agenda is the newly announced procurement process for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway. President Mahama confirmed that the Ghana Armed Forces are already serving as a major subcontractor, having cleared the right-of-way to facilitate the next phase of construction. The President expressed optimism that the project, which aims to drastically improve connectivity between southern and northern Ghana, will be completed within three years. Complementing these large-scale works, the Minister of Works and Housing, Ahmed Ibrahim, has urged indigenous contractors to prioritize quality and efficiency to ensure that the economic benefits of such investments remain within the country. While the government promotes its "Big Push" infrastructure programme, the initiative has not been without political friction. In Ho, the demolition of structures to make way for road expansion ahead of the 2025 National Farmers’ Day sparked a heated dispute. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) accused the government of a targeted political attack after a fence wall at their regional office was removed. However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and local authorities clarified that the demolition was strictly a matter of urban planning, affecting multiple private and religious properties situated within road reservations. Despite these tensions, local development projects continue across the country, including the handover of health facilities and schools in Krachi East and the installation of 100 streetlights by Tano North MP Dr. Gideon Boako to enhance security in Duayaw Nkwanta. Looking toward long-term sustainability, President Mahama has called for a more integrated role for traditional authorities in local governance. He revealed that 80% of the District Assemblies Common Fund is now being channeled directly to districts to empower local development. The President urged chiefs to collaborate with District Chief Executives to oversee these resources, ensuring they are used effectively for community projects like the proposed 24-hour market centers planned for each of the 261 districts. As the administration moves forward with these ambitious targets, the focus remains on balancing rapid infrastructure growth with inclusive economic stability and job creation.

Fifi Fiavi Kwetey — NDC General Secretary
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Ghana’s Political Parties Pivot Toward 2028 as NPP Elects Leaders and NDC Disciplines Campaigners

Ghana’s political landscape is shifting focus toward the 2028 general elections, with both major parties undergoing significant internal restructuring and addressing early leadership ambitions. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is preparing for a high-stakes National Delegates Conference scheduled for October 3, 2026, in Kumasi, where 47 aspirants are vying for nine national positions. Simultaneously, the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a stern directive through General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, ordering all members to immediately cease premature parliamentary campaign activities to preserve party unity and adhere to the official electoral schedule, which culminates in a national congress in December 2026. The NPP’s national chairmanship race has emerged as a focal point for the party's reorganization efforts following its recent electoral challenges. Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko is among the four leading contenders, alongside Paul Afoko, John Boadu, and Sammy Crabbe. The National Officers Elections Committee (NOEC), chaired by Frederick Opare-Ansah, has urged delegates to verify their eligibility via the party’s official website using a One-Time Password (OTP) system. This move, supported by the Electoral Commission and the Ghana Police Service, aims to ensure transparency and order during the Kumasi conference. Analysts suggest the outcome will be critical in determining whether the party can successfully rebuild voter trust and address systemic issues before the next national cycle. Within the NDC, leadership hopefuls and grassroots supporters are also demanding structural changes. Dr. Akwasi Oppong-Fosu, a candidate for the National Chairman position, has introduced a "restoration, renewal, and reset" agenda designed to move the party away from personality-driven politics toward a system-focused approach. However, internal friction has surfaced at the local level. In Kwadaso, party supporters staged a demonstration on September 16, 2026, petitioning President John Mahama to revoke the appointment of Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Eric Asibey. Protesters accused Asibey of failing to engage with the grassroots and mismanaging government initiatives, such as the "Nkoko Nketekete" poultry program, though Asibey has denied these allegations, maintaining his loyalty to the President’s agenda. Beyond the two-party dominance, third-party movements and individual political clarifications are shaping the 2028 narrative. Alan Kyerematen, leader of the United Party (UP), has vowed to dismantle the "NPP-NDC duopoly," criticizing both parties for failing to resolve core developmental issues since 1992. Meanwhile, Julius Neequaye Kotey, CEO of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), has moved to quell rumors regarding his own ambitions. Despite his deep roots in the Klottey Korle constituency, Kotey clarified that he will not challenge Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings for her parliamentary seat in 2028, choosing instead to focus on ongoing reforms at the DVLA under the Mahama administration. These developments collectively underscore a period of intense preparation and jockeying as Ghana’s political actors define their roles for the years ahead.

A group of six men, including a senior Ghana Police officer and representatives from the Okada Riders Association of Ghana (ORAG), pose for a photo in an office. A portrait of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and the Ghana flag are visible in the background, indicating a formal state-related meeting. Some men are wearing shirts branded with 'ORAG', identifying their association.
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Transport Minister Nikpe Mandates Strict Enforcement of New 2026 Road Traffic Regulations Amid Major DVLA Operational Upgrades

The Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has issued a directive to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to intensify inter-agency collaboration for the rigorous enforcement of the newly introduced Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519). Speaking at the DVLA’s 2026 mid-year review conference, Minister Nikpe emphasized that digitalization and professional training are critical to modernizing road safety in Ghana. The new legislative instrument introduces automated enforcement measures, allowing traffic devices to detect violations and issue graduated fines. Penalties under L.I. 2519 target a range of offences, including illegal racing, running red lights, and improper parking, with heightened sanctions for repeat offenders and mandatory retraining for serious violations. In tandem with these regulatory shifts, the DVLA has reported a dramatic increase in its operational efficiency. Under the leadership of CEO Julius Neequaye Kotey, the authority has overhauled its temporary "DP" ticket system, boosting vehicle processing from a previous average of 1,900 to at least 15,000 vehicles per month. This improvement was achieved by replacing reusable temporary plates with one-time stickers and terminating contracts with 12 external companies that were identified as sources of inefficiency. Mr. Kotey noted that these reforms, alongside enhanced security features for number plates, are part of a broader strategy to streamline vehicle registration and improve the authority’s service culture. Complementing these administrative efforts, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has engaged the leadership of the Okada Riders Association of Ghana (ORAG) to ensure compliance with the new laws. During meetings with the Police Management Board (POMAB), the IGP urged the association to prioritize safe riding training and ensure all members adhere to licensing and registration requirements. In response, ORAG President Michael Kofi Owusu expressed the association's commitment to collaborating with the Ghana Police Service to reduce road crashes and combat crime. These multi-sectoral efforts signify a comprehensive push by the Ghanaian government to modernize transport administration and enhance public safety on the nation's roads.

President John Mahama Dissolves National Cathedral Board of Trustees, Sets October Deadline for Site Handover
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President John Mahama Dissolves National Cathedral Board of Trustees, Sets October Deadline for Site Handover

President John Mahama has ordered the immediate dissolution of the Board of Trustees for the National Cathedral of Ghana, bringing a formal end to the oversight of the controversial and stalled infrastructure project. The decision was formalized through a directive signed by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, on September 18, 2026. As part of the dissolution, the outgoing trustees have been mandated to transfer control of the construction site and all associated physical assets to the ministry by October 31, 2026. This administrative move aims to clear the path for the government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the project's viability. The Board of Trustees, which was chaired by Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah, had faced a period of uncertainty regarding its status following an initial announcement in July 2025. By centralizing control under the Ministry of Local Government, the Mahama administration seeks to resolve any lingering confusion and establish a clear line of accountability for the site located in the heart of the capital. In the official correspondence, the government expressed its appreciation to the outgoing board members for their dedicated service and their efforts in promoting the Christian faith within the country. However, the administration emphasized that the dissolution is a necessary step to address growing public scrutiny over the project's financial management and the significant public funds committed to it by the previous administration. The project, which has remained largely incomplete, has been a central point of debate regarding national priorities and fiscal responsibility. The upcoming handover marks a transition toward a final decision on the cathedral's future. Once the Ministry of Local Government takes full possession of the grounds, state authorities will evaluate several options, ranging from a potential redesign of the facility to its complete closure. This evaluation process is expected to provide much-needed clarity to the Ghanaian public on whether the massive investment will be repurposed or abandoned, as President Mahama continues to review legacy projects inherited from the previous government.

Kojo Oppong Nkrumah
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NPP Demands Constituent Assembly Amidst Contention Over Proposed Five-Year Presidential Terms

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally demanded the establishment of a Constituent Assembly to deliberate on 206 proposed amendments to the 1992 Constitution before any national referendum is held. NPP Chairman Kojo Oppong Nkrumah emphasized that a broad national consensus is vital for reforms that should reflect a collective agreement rather than partisan preferences. The party has warned that without a legally established deliberative body—comprising representatives from political parties, organized labor, and civil society—it will oppose any referendum processes initiated by the President John Mahama-led government. This stance follows significant disagreements between the administration and the Constitution Review Committee (CRC) over the scope and nature of governance changes affecting the Executive, Parliament, and Judiciary. Central to the friction are proposals to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from four to five years, a move accepted by the government but rejected by the NPP and various political analysts. Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante of the University of Ghana argued that transition challenges are better addressed through early preparation and efficiency rather than longer terms. Similarly, legal expert Martin Kpebu criticized the government for failing to show the NPP sufficient respect in the review process, arguing that the party should have been central to discussions given its significant support base. Another point of contention is the proposal to lower the presidential eligibility age from 40 to 30 or 35. Kwaku Ansa-Asare, former Director of the Ghana School of Law, questioned the urgency of this change, suggesting that youth participation should not be prioritized over stable constitutional frameworks. Beyond political parties, the Citizens’ Platform on Constitutional Reform (CPCR) has urged the government to pass a "Constitutional Reform Implementation and Roadmap Act" to provide a clear legal framework for the process. Chairperson Prof. Akosua Keseboa Darkwah stressed that citizens should be allowed to vote on individual amendments rather than a single "yes/no" package, ensuring informed participation. This call for procedural clarity is echoed by veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr., though he cautioned that amendments alone cannot resolve Ghana’s difficulties. Pratt argued that the underlying issue remains the conduct of state institutions and political leaders rather than the constitutional text itself, citing the historical context of the 1992 Constitution and the legacy of Kwame Nkrumah. As the debate continues, the legal requirements for constitutional amendments present a significant hurdle. For changes to entrenched clauses under Article 290, at least 40% of registered voters must participate in a referendum, with 75% of those casting ballots in favor. The CPCR has highlighted that without adequate government-funded civic education and ample time for public deliberation, these thresholds may be difficult to reach. The push for a Constituent Assembly represents a growing demand for a more inclusive, non-partisan approach to ensure that any changes to the nation's supreme law enjoy the legitimacy required for long-term stability and democratic governance.

President Mahama Announces $2 Billion Annual Investment in 2027 Budget to Drive Job Creation Across Nine Key Sectors
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President Mahama Announces $2 Billion Annual Investment in 2027 Budget to Drive Job Creation Across Nine Key Sectors

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the upcoming 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy will center on nine critical sectors designed to accelerate job creation across Ghana. Speaking during a meeting with the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, the President revealed that the government plans to allocate approximately $2 billion annually to these priority areas. He emphasized that the initiative will be primarily driven by the private sector rather than government-operated entities, marking a strategic shift toward market-led employment generation. Detailed specifics of this economic framework are expected to be unveiled by the Finance Minister when the budget is formally presented to Parliament in November. Preparations for the fiscal policy are already well underway at the Ministry of Finance, where ongoing budget hearings are being held this week. Sector ministers and senior officials are currently convening to outline their specific resource requirements and program goals for the 2027 fiscal year. These consultations aim to ensure that every ministry’s individual needs are aligned with the broader national strategy of economic revitalization and infrastructure development. The President has called for the support of traditional authorities to facilitate the implementation of these programs at the local level, stressing the importance of community involvement in achieving national targets. In tandem with the government's planning, civil society organizations are advocating for more inclusive fiscal policies. The Network for Women's Rights (NETRIGHT) has issued a strong call for the 2027 budget to be gender-responsive, moving beyond what they describe as "token interventions." At a public forum in Accra, Executive Director Patricia Blankson Akakpo argued that despite existing social programs, a lack of rigorous gender analysis often undermines the effectiveness of resource allocation. NETRIGHT is urging the government to utilize gender-disaggregated data to ensure the budget addresses the specific needs of women and marginalized groups, demanding an evidence-based approach to inclusive development. As the November presentation approaches, the 2027 Budget is shaping up to be a pivotal document for the Mahama administration’s economic agenda. By combining large-scale capital investment in job-creating sectors with a reliance on private sector efficiency, the government aims to address the country's employment challenges. The integration of gender-responsive budgeting and the active participation of traditional leaders will likely be key indicators of how successfully this policy can translate into broad-based prosperity for all Ghanaians.

A man, identified as a senior official of Ghana's National Sports Authority (NSA), is seen speaking at a press engagement. He is seated at a table with microphones and water bottles, wearing a distinctive brown cap and traditional smock, with the NSA logo visible in the foreground.
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Minority Demands Dismissal of NSA Boss Over $600,000 World Cup Visa Scandal and GH¢58m Expenditure

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has intensified calls for the immediate dismissal or suspension of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), following allegations of a mass visa-facilitation fraud linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is currently questioning Ankrah and several NSA staff members over a scheme that reportedly generated approximately $600,000. Allegations suggest that individuals were charged up to $8,000 each for travel assistance, involving a private entity operating within state facilities. The Minority, led by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Ranking Member of the Youth and Sports Committee, has urged President John Mahama to take decisive action against the NSA leadership to maintain the integrity of the sector while investigations proceed. In addition to the visa racketeering allegations, the Minority is challenging the government’s assertion that all 431 state-sponsored individuals who traveled for the tournament have returned to Ghana. Specifically, the Caucus has raised concerns regarding the whereabouts of a driver for the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, and a secretary from the Ministry’s Chief Director’s office, both of whom are allegedly still in the United States. To ensure transparency, the Minority has demanded that the Ministry publicly release the names and passport numbers of all sponsored travelers. While the government maintains that no formal notifications of visa overstays have been received from U.S. or Canadian authorities, the Minority insists that documentary evidence is required to verify these claims. Financial accountability has also become a focal point of the controversy, with the Minority demanding a line-by-line account of the GH¢58.9 million allocated by the government for World Cup participation. Furthermore, they are seeking a full reconciliation of the GH¢115 million raised through corporate and private fundraising campaigns for the Black Stars. Assafuah emphasized that contributors and the Ghanaian public deserve to know how these resources were utilized, including details on ticket purchases, accommodation, and supporter mobilization. The Caucus has called for the Ministry of Sports and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to provide a comprehensive breakdown of all operational expenses and recipient accounts. Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams has dismissed the allegations of overstaying as misinformation, stating that discussions with U.S. Embassy officials have remained positive and focused on early preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games. The NSA has also denied any wrongdoing, asserting that it did not authorize the alleged private visa services and is cooperating fully with the police. As the CID investigation continues, the political pressure on the Mahama administration to provide a full financial and personnel audit of the 2026 World Cup campaign remains high, with the Minority vowing to pursue the matter until total transparency is achieved.

President Mahama Launches Massive Agbogbloshie Waste Evacuation; Targets Industrial Park and Textile Factory Development
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President Mahama Launches Massive Agbogbloshie Waste Evacuation; Targets Industrial Park and Textile Factory Development

President John Dramani Mahama has officially commissioned the National Emergency Waste Evacuation Exercise at Agbogbloshie, Accra, marking a significant milestone in his administration’s "Clean Ghana Agenda." The ambitious project aims to remove approximately one million tonnes of accumulated waste from the site over the next 90 days, transporting it to the Adepa Engineered Landfill Site near Nsawam. Speaking at the launch event at the Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP) in Agbogbloshie, President Mahama declared a "war on filth," emphasizing that the initiative is critical for protecting public health, restoring the dignity of local communities, and reclaiming the area for productive economic use. The operation is a multi-agency effort led by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, with significant support from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), particularly the 48 Engineer Regiment. President Mahama highlighted that the military’s role in national development extends beyond traditional defense, with soldiers now providing security and logistics to ensure the area is not reused as a dumping ground post-evacuation. The project leverages heavy machinery acquired through the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) and involves a fleet of over 200 trucks. To minimize traffic disruption and ensure safety along the 42-kilometer haulage route to Nsawam, the evacuation will primarily take place during nighttime hours. Beyond the immediate sanitation benefits, the reclaimed land is slated for a massive transformation under the Agbogbloshie Urban Land Renewal Project. President Mahama unveiled plans to develop a modern industrial park on the site, which will feature a state-of-the-art textile factory designed to create sustainable jobs for Ghanaian youth. By converting a notorious environmental hazard into an industrial hub, the government intends to stimulate local manufacturing and provide new economic opportunities for residents who have long lived in the shadow of the waste heaps. This transformation is expected to revitalize the area and foster long-term urban development. This emergency evacuation is part of a broader, long-term national sanitation strategy that includes the provision of waste bins, the establishment of transfer stations, and the expansion of recycling facilities across the country. President Mahama urged residents and stakeholders to cooperate with the technical teams and appealed for a collective shift in attitude toward waste management to ensure the project's success. He noted that the Ministry of Finance and private road contractors are working in tandem to ensure the project remains cost-effective while meeting its 90-day completion deadline, reinforcing his commitment that "Ghana must be clean again."

Police CID provides details on how nurse arrested in Techiman is linked to 'Ghana Jollof' Tiktok publications
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Condemns Arrest of Techiman Nurse Linked to ‘Ghana Jollof’ TikTok Account

The arrest and two-week remand of Salomey Awiti Bafoh, a Techiman-based senior nursing officer, has sparked a national debate over the boundaries of free speech and national security in Ghana. Bafoh was apprehended by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on September 17, 2026, for allegedly aiding the 'Ghana Jollof' TikTok account, which the police claim disseminated false news and inciteful content. The account, reportedly operated by UK-resident Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, published claims regarding an imminent coup d'état at the Jubilee House. Following her initial appearance, the Adenta Circuit Court remanded Bafoh into custody until September 30, 2026. During a detailed press briefing, CID Director-General COP Lydia Yaako Donkor revealed that forensic investigations uncovered significant financial transactions linking Bafoh to the account's operations. The police allege that 'highly influential persons' sponsored these digital activities by transferring funds via mobile money to Bafoh, who then distributed the money to facilitate the viral spread of provocative videos. While the government, represented by Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu, maintains that the state can tolerate criticism but must act against statements that incite violence, the CID continues to track additional accomplices and high-profile financiers involved in the network. The case has drawn sharp criticism from New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who described the detention as 'very worrying' and inconsistent with Ghana's democratic aspirations. Dr. Bawumia argued that intelligence agencies should not be used to 'chase' citizens for political comments or insults directed at the presidency, emphasizing that free speech is a fundamental pillar of democracy. He has called for the nurse's immediate release, a sentiment echoed by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), which argues that Bafoh, a mother of three with stable employment, is not a flight risk and should have been granted bail. Beyond the political friction, legal experts and community groups have raised alarms regarding the procedural handling of the case. Bafoh’s lawyer, Enoch Afuakwa, has challenged the remand, citing a breach of the constitutional 48-hour rule and questioning the jurisdiction of the Adenta court for an accused resident of Techiman. Meanwhile, residents and chiefs in Jema have staged protests demanding her release, while legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has advocated for a broader national dialogue. Kpebu suggests that while the 'Ghana Jollof' case highlights a toxic political culture, legal prosecutions alone will not resolve the issue of abusive rhetoric in Ghana’s public discourse.

Recall Parliament for extraordinary sitting over cocaine seizures – Habib Iddrisu leads petition
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President Mahama Directs Narcotics Task Force as Minority Demands Parliamentary Recall Over 3.9-Tonne Cocaine Seizure

The seizure of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine at the Port of Dunkirk in France has triggered a high-stakes political confrontation in Ghana, as the shipment originated from a Ghanaian port. Valued at approximately €225 million ($260 million), the narcotics bust on September 10, 2026, represents one of the largest drug-related incidents linked to the country. In response, President John Dramani Mahama convened an emergency meeting with security chiefs and directed the formation of an inter-agency task force. This task force has been given a two-week deadline to develop a comprehensive roadmap to enhance border security and prevent future trafficking through Ghana’s ports and customs systems. Despite the executive action, the Minority in Parliament, led by First Deputy Minority Whip Habib Iddrisu, has formally petitioned the Speaker to recall the House from recess for an extraordinary sitting. Invoking Article 112(3) of the 1992 Constitution with the support of more than 15% of the membership, the Minority argues that an executive-led investigation cannot substitute for the House's constitutional oversight. They are demanding a bipartisan inquiry into the roles of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority. Iddrisu emphasized that the scale of the seizure, which followed a series of other high-profile drug incidents totaling over $1 billion in two years, necessitates public accountability for the officials on duty during the cargo's departure. The demand for a recall has met stiff resistance from the Majority caucus. Deputy Majority Whip Richard Acheampong and Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor have dismissed the petition as a "misplaced call," questioning the Minority’s investigative capacity and the financial burden of an extraordinary session. They argue that NACOC and the Police are already conducting professional investigations that a parallel parliamentary probe might undermine. Furthermore, the Majority maintains that the government is already taking proactive steps, as evidenced by the arrest of several suspects, including four Customs Division officers and GRA officials. The case has also sparked a war of words regarding potential political links. Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, alleged that one of the suspects, Musah Attah, is a member of the security detail for President Mahama and Vice President Opoku-Agyemang. However, Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu has categorically denied any evidence linking government officials or National Democratic Congress (NDC) members to the trafficking operation. He stated that while ten individuals are currently detained, none are government affiliates, and he warned against political speculation while security agencies work to identify the masterminds behind the shipment. As the nation awaits the Speaker's decision on the recall, the broader security implications remain a focal point. Sammi Awuku, the MP for Akuapem North, has warned that the frequency of such seizures indicates a systemic vulnerability that threatens Ghana's international reputation and national security. The upcoming report from the President’s task force is expected to address these vulnerabilities, even as the Minority insists that only a transparent parliamentary inquiry can restore public confidence in the integrity of Ghana's transit points.

Francis Asenso-Boakye, the ranking member on Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee, addressing journalists
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President Mahama and Government Face Mounting Pressure Over 24-Hour Economy Implementation, Finance Reforms, and Institutional Integrity

President John Dramani Mahama’s administration is currently navigating a complex landscape of policy implementation and calls for systemic reform. At the forefront of the national discourse is the 24-Hour Economy Market Programme, which has drawn significant scrutiny from the Minority Caucus in Parliament. Led by Ranking Member Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Minority is demanding a comprehensive review of the initiative to ensure market projects are guided by local economic demands and district development plans rather than a centralized, uniform approach. This friction is epitomized by a heated dispute between Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey and former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul over demolition plans at the Konkomba Yam Market in Agbogbloshie, a move tied to the government’s 24-hour economy strategy. Meanwhile, the Presidency has demonstrated a commitment to administrative oversight, referring a petition from the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) to the Ministry of Transport regarding representation and accountability issues within maritime boards. Simultaneously, Transparency International Ghana (TI Ghana) and the Africa Centre for International Law and Accountability (ACILA) are intensifying calls for stronger political financing legislation. Activists like William Nyarko and MP Alexander Akwasi Acquah are advocating for caps on individual campaign donations, mandatory financial disclosures, and the criminalization of vote-buying in intra-party elections to curb the monetization of politics and the influence of deep-pocketed donors. Amidst these calls for accountability, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has publicly defended his management of public funds, asserting that his work is guided by honesty and a clean conscience. However, the government faces other integrity-related challenges, including a formal petition to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to investigate allegations of impersonation involving former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo during parliamentary proceedings in 2021. Beyond high-level policy and legal disputes, several state institutions are struggling with operational constraints and environmental pressures. The Acting Commissioner of the Rent Control Department, Frederick Opoku, recently voiced alarm over severe underfunding, noting that GH"60,000 for 66 offices over three months is insufficient for effective operations. On the environmental front, Professor Ransford Gyampo has categorized the persistence of illegal mining, or galamsey, as an "existential threat," urging the government to move beyond acknowledgments toward radical action. On the diplomatic stage, Ghana continues to project leadership in emerging sectors, with Minister Samuel Nartey George representing President Mahama at the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Saudi Arabia to strengthen AI diplomacy. Finally, there is a growing concern over the quality of political discourse in the country. Religious leaders and commentators are warning against the "politics of insults," urging a return to respect and constructive criticism to preserve national peace. This call for civility is underscored by international developments, such as the recent physical assault on Irish TD Michael Healy-Rae in Dublin, which has sparked a global conversation about the rising toxicity and dangers faced by public officials. As Ghana moves forward, the intersection of infrastructure development, fiscal transparency, and the maintenance of democratic norms remains critical to the nation's stability and progress under President Mahama’s leadership.