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.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, is captured speaking into a microphone while wearing a bright yellow high-visibility safety vest. He is surrounded by a crowd of people, many in similar safety gear, during what appears to be an official reception or briefing at an indoor facility like an airport.
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says no funds missing from GH‵49.7m evacuation

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has strongly defended the government’s expenditure of GH‵49,721,786 for the evacuation of 1,964 Ghanaians from South Africa. Speaking in response to Minority concerns over financial discrepancies, the Minister asserted that ‘not a pesewa’ is missing from the operation conducted between May 27 and September 4, 2026. The mission, prompted by xenophobic violence in South Africa, was funded through a combination of GH‵33.7 million in state resources and a GH‵16 million contribution from private firm Engineers and Planners, owned by businessman Ibrahim Mahama. The Minority in Parliament, led by the Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called for an independent audit after identifying what they described as anomalies in a 200-page report submitted by the Ministry. While the Minority clarified that they are not yet accusing the Minister of wrongdoing, they are seeking further examination of over GH‵16.4 million in spending. In his defense, Mr. Ablakwa explained that each returnee received a GH‵5,000 reintegration grant and a GH‵500 transport allowance, marking the first time in Ghana’s history that such comprehensive financial support has been provided to citizens returning from crises abroad. Responding to specific questions regarding allowances for minors, Mr. Ablakwa maintained that children received the same GH‵5,500 total support as adults to facilitate their reintegration and school enrollment. He clarified that parents or guardians signed for the children's allowances and that the Ministry holds detailed records, including airline receipts and boarding passes, to substantiate every payment. The Minister dismissed the Minority’s claims as ‘pure mischief,’ though he noted he remains open to an independent review to protect the Ministry's reputation and demonstrate full transparency in the use of public and private funds. Beyond the official state-funded support, Mr. Ablakwa revealed that he personally aided some families with additional educational costs when they approached him for help after receiving their government grants. The evacuation program, which followed the tragic death of four Ghanaians during the violence in South Africa, was championed by President John Dramani Mahama as a vital humanitarian necessity. As the African Union prepares to discuss the xenophobic attacks at an upcoming summit, the Ghanaian government has reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice for those killed and ensuring returnees have the resources needed to rebuild their lives in Ghana.

Appointment of Emelia Agbenyo as EC deputy chair was well calculated, reasoned – Suhuyini
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CDD-Ghana calls for Emelia Afi Agbenyo to resign from Electoral Commission

The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has urged President John Dramani Mahama to advise the newly appointed Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Emelia Afi Agbenyo, to resign. The call follows Agbenyo’s swearing-in on October 12, 2025, an event that has sparked intense debate over the political neutrality of the commission. Critics, led by CDD-Ghana’s Programmes Manager Paul Aborampah Mensah, argue that Agbenyo’s alleged ties to the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) could undermine public confidence in the electoral system and the independence of state institutions. Opposition members and political analysts have expressed concern that the appointment sets a dangerous precedent. Kamaldeen Abdulai of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) warned that making partisan appointments to the EC could lead to a cycle of retaliatory replacements whenever a new government takes office, effectively turning the commission into a political entity. Furthermore, Ms. Akosua Manu, an adviser on Gender and Social Protection, pointed out what she described as the NDC’s inconsistency, noting that the party had previously condemned similar politically affiliated appointments made under the prior administration. Even within the government, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa admitted that while he believes Agbenyo possesses the required integrity and competence, the "optics" of the appointment are problematic given her history as an NDC spokesperson. Defenders of the appointment, including NDC Communications Team member Hamza Suhuyini, maintain that the selection process was thorough and well-calculated. Suhuyini stated that Agbenyo was chosen from a pool of candidates after rigorous interviews and that her appointment, advised by the Council of State, was intended to ensure balance and professional skill within the EC. However, some analysts, such as Professor Jonathan Asante Otchere, argued that the Council of State failed the President by not providing a more comprehensive background check that could have avoided the current public scrutiny. He suggested that the controversy has placed unnecessary pressure on President Mahama. Legal practitioner Victoria Bright offered a more nuanced perspective, cautioning that calling for a single member's resignation might be excessive. She argued that if past political affiliations are used as a disqualifier, many current commissioners across different administrations could face similar scrutiny. Bright instead advocated for a broader, consistent review of the appointment process to ensure that the EC commands public trust regardless of which party is in power. Other academic voices, including Professor Jonathan Asante from the University of Cape Coast, have echoed these calls for reform, suggesting that commissioners should be elected or selected through the Public Services Commission to remove them from direct executive influence.

IFEJ and Lands Ministry agree to partner on mining reporting
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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah partners IFEJ on specialized mining reporting

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Institute of Financial and Economic Journalists (IFEJ) have agreed to a partnership to enhance specialized reporting on Ghana’s mining, forestry, and land reform sectors. Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah and the leadership of IFEJ reached the agreement following a courtesy visit intended to bridge the communication gap between the ministry and the media. The collaboration aims to ensure that journalists are well-equipped to provide accurate and technical coverage of the extractive industries. The partnership will be formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will outline several joint initiatives. Key components of the agreement include the organization of training workshops, annual conferences, and joint research projects. These programmes are designed to foster closer ties between media practitioners and agencies under the ministry, such as the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission, ensuring that reporting on these critical sectors is informed by expert data and policy context. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted recent milestones in the sector, including the implementation of a new mining policy and the successful reclamation of 44 forest reserves. He noted that such significant reforms require clear communication to the public, and that the ministry relies on a knowledgeable press to interpret complex policies. A workshop is expected to be the first activity under this partnership, focusing on building the capacity of IFEJ members to navigate the nuances of natural resource management. By improving the quality of financial and economic journalism, the partnership seeks to promote greater transparency and accountability in the management of Ghana’s natural resources. IFEJ leadership expressed optimism that the collaboration would lead to more impactful storytelling that highlights both the economic potential and the environmental responsibilities of the mining and forestry sectors. The move is seen as a vital step in enhancing the public’s understanding of how these sectors contribute to national development.

Kwesi Pratt Jnr (middle), veteran journalist, in a panel discussion with Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (left), Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, and Betty Mould-Iddrisu (right), former Minister of Education. Picture: ERNEST KODZI
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Kwesi Pratt Jnr urges NDC to document contributions of ordinary members

Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to ensure its historiographies accurately record the struggles and contributions of grassroots members. Speaking at the launch of the party’s six volumes of historiographies in Accra, Pratt emphasized that the party's history belongs to all who contributed to the growth of democracy in Ghana, rather than being limited to the narratives of prominent leaders. Pratt highlighted the importance of recognizing both the successes and the hardships faced by the party throughout its journey. He urged the party's leadership and historians to capture the stories of ordinary members who made significant sacrifices, often without recognition. By documenting these individual and collective struggles, Pratt argued that the NDC would provide a more authentic and comprehensive account of its evolution and its impact on the nation's political landscape. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the legacy of her father, former President Jerry John Rawlings. She highlighted his commitment to placing national interests above political affiliations, showcasing his principles of selflessness in public service. Her remarks echoed the call for accountability and the need for capable individuals to take up responsibility within the government to ensure national development. The launch of these historiographies marks a significant step for the NDC in preserving its heritage and providing a scholarly resource for its members and the general public. By formalizing its history, the party aims to provide a clearer understanding of its ideological foundations and its role in Ghana's Fourth Republic. The event underscored a broader push within the party to celebrate its diverse membership and ensure that the contributions of every individual are properly acknowledged in the official record.

John Dramani Mahama orders review of disaster preparedness systems
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John Dramani Mahama orders review of disaster preparedness systems

President John Dramani Mahama has directed an urgent and comprehensive assessment of Ghana’s disaster preparedness and emergency response systems. This executive order comes in response to recurring seasonal floods and frequent market fires that have continued to impact the nation. The initiative is designed to move the country toward a more proactive, coordinated approach to managing domestic emergencies and safeguarding public safety. The review will be led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness (NAREP). Under the President's directive, NAREP is tasked with developing a "Comprehensive National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness Strategic Plan." This document is intended to serve as a national roadmap for enhancing disaster prevention efforts and streamlining the response protocols of various state agencies and emergency services. Recent incidents have underscored the necessity of this evaluation, specifically the severe flooding in Accra and devastating fire outbreaks at the Kumasi Central Market. These events have highlighted significant vulnerabilities among traders and small business owners, exposing gaps in current institutional coordination and the need for more robust infrastructure to protect economic livelihoods. As part of the assessment process, NAREP will consult with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the new strategy addresses the practical needs of various sectors. Beyond government-level interventions, the plan will emphasize strengthening risk governance and improving household preparedness. The ultimate goal is to build a resilient national framework capable of mitigating the impact of future environmental and man-made disasters.

President John Dramani (right) and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (left), Minister of Foreign Affairs.
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John Dramani Mahama lauds Foreign Ministry for Ghana's 173 UNHRC votes

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, specifically highlighting Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, following Ghana’s successful bid for re-election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Ghana secured its seat for the 2027–2029 term with a strong showing in the international ballot, garnering 173 out of 181 valid votes. This performance placed Ghana second globally in the election, sharing that rank with Kuwait and Nepal. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony for new ambassadors at the Jubilee House on October 16, 2026, the President noted that the international community's support reflects confidence in Ghana’s democratic credentials. He emphasized that this re-election brings a renewed responsibility for the nation to lead and contribute effectively to global human rights discourse. Mahama's praise for the diplomatic team underscores the government's focus on re-establishing Ghana's influence within multilateral institutions. The President specifically addressed Jedidiah Reuben Adogla, the newly appointed Permanent Representative to Geneva, urging him to ensure that Ghana’s interests are well-articulated on the world stage. He stressed the importance of advocating for the country's stances on critical issues including trade, health, and human rights. Mahama called for a proactive approach, advising the diplomat to maintain consistent engagement with international partners to secure broad support for Ghana’s policy positions. Central to these diplomatic efforts is the "Accra Reset" agenda, which the President highlighted as a priority for his administration. This initiative aims to reform global health governance and ensure more equitable access to health products across the African continent. By leveraging its position on the UNHRC, the government intends to coordinate closely between its representatives in Geneva and the leadership in Accra to advance these reforms and advocate for the continent's interests in global decision-making forums.

A political campaign flyer for David Selassie Anthony, featuring a portrait of him wearing glasses and a dark green shirt. The background is red with a repeating 'MAYOR' watermark, and a green banner at the bottom identifies him as a candidate for Deputy National Organiser.
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David Selassie Anthony declares bid for NDC Deputy National Organiser

David Selassie Anthony, popularly known as "Dee Mayor," has officially announced his intention to contest the position of Deputy National Organiser for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His campaign is centered on revitalizing the party's grassroots base and enhancing the welfare of local organizers to ensure a formidable challenge in the 2028 general elections. The announcement follows what he describes as extensive consultations with party stakeholders and supporters across all 16 regions of Ghana. Anthony’s platform emphasizes the need for a more robust connection between national leadership and the party's local structures. He argues that the NDC's true strength lies within its constituencies and has pledged to make the roles of regional and constituency organizers more functional with clearly defined responsibilities. By prioritizing organizer welfare and improving coordination, Anthony aims to galvanize supporters and increase participation at the community level. He stressed that maintaining open communication channels is essential for the party to build a more inclusive and effective political machine. A building engineer, farmer, and philanthropist, David Selassie Anthony brings a diverse professional background to his political ambitions. Within the NDC, he has served in various capacities, including as a Branch Communications Officer and a member of the National Communications Team. He is also the founder of the De Mayor Foundation, a humanitarian organization. This combination of professional expertise and long-standing party involvement is presented as a key asset in his bid to coordinate the party's organizational efforts. As the internal election cycle approaches, Anthony has indicated that he will release a more detailed manifesto outlining specific commitments to political mobilization in the coming weeks. His entry into the race adds momentum to the NDC’s internal reorganization efforts as it prepares for the next general election cycle. He remains committed to fostering a grassroots-driven strategy that empowers local leaders to take ownership of the party's success at the polling station level.

Gilbert Kenneth Adjei (left), Minister of Defence, addressing participants in the Africa Maritime Security Forum
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Gilbert Kenneth Adjei calls for intelligence-led maritime security

Defence Minister Gilbert Kenneth Adjei has called for a coordinated, intelligence-led approach to address maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. Speaking at the First African Maritime Security Forum held at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra, the Minister emphasized that criminal networks frequently exploit cross-border vulnerabilities. The forum brought together 66 participants from 14 countries to discuss innovative strategies and legal frameworks required to enhance regional stability. Minister Adjei noted that while piracy incidents have recently decreased, the underlying threats persist due to factors such as weak naval capabilities and high youth unemployment. He argued that the complex nature of these criminal activities necessitates stronger collaborative efforts among nations and maritime institutions. By sharing intelligence and resources, regional partners can better identify and neutralize threats before they disrupt vital trade routes. Supporting this call, Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf underscored the necessity of regional cooperation in the face of evolving geopolitical tensions. He noted that these tensions increasingly impact global trade, making a unified maritime strategy essential. The forum concludes with a focus on establishing robust legal structures to support these security efforts, ensuring that the Gulf of Guinea remains a safe corridor for international commerce.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (2nd from left), Minister of Foreign Affairs, interacting with an applicant (seated) while a female staff of the Ashanti Regional Passport Application Centre looks on
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to institutionalise mobile passport centres

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced plans to institutionalise the Mobile Passport Application Centre (MoPAC) concept to significantly enhance passport service delivery across the country. The initiative, which was previously operated as a periodic intervention, will now become a permanent service aimed at bringing passport application facilities directly to various communities and institutions. This move is part of the ministry's broader strategy to decentralise services and reduce the burden on existing regional passport offices. According to the Minister, the institutionalisation process will involve strengthening the operational capacity of the ministry through improved logistics and staff welfare. To this end, the government has initiated the acquisition of new vehicles and modern equipment to facilitate the mobility and efficiency of the centres. Ablakwa also revealed that as part of the expansion of passport infrastructure, a second passport application centre will be established in the Ashanti Region by early 2027 to cater to the high volume of applicants in that enclave. A key component of this new permanent service is the commitment to a rapid turnaround time. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set a delivery goal of 15 working days for all new passport applications processed through the mobile centres. Minister Ablakwa emphasised that high customer service standards would be maintained, with specific protocols developed to ensure that elderly applicants and other vulnerable groups receive priority attention and a seamless experience during the application process. To ensure the sustainability of the programme, Parliament is expected to discuss and approve a formal fee structure for the MoPAC services. The minister noted that the permanent rollout of mobile centres reflects the Mahama administration's commitment to modernising public institutions and making government services more accessible to every Ghanaian. By creating a structured and permanent framework for mobile applications, the ministry aims to eliminate systemic delays and provide a more convenient alternative for citizens in underserved areas.

Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang arrives in Shanghai for Global South forum
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Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang arrives in Shanghai for Global South forum

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has arrived in Shanghai, China, to represent Ghana at the Global South Academic Forum. The high-level gathering is designed to facilitate robust dialogue and enhance collaboration among nations within the Global South. Upon her arrival, the Vice President emphasized the importance of the forum as a platform for fostering mutual partnerships and addressing shared challenges in national development. During her stay in Shanghai, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is expected to engage with various stakeholders, including academic leaders, policymakers, and international development experts. She expressed a strong interest in exploring strategic partnerships that align with Ghana's national development agenda. The forum provides a unique opportunity for participating countries to share their specific development experiences, successes, and strategies for sustainable growth in an increasingly interconnected global economy. The Vice President’s participation underscores the government's commitment to strengthening ties with other Global South nations. Over the coming days, she will participate in a series of discussions and plenary sessions focused on creating mutually advantageous collaborations. These engagements are intended to yield practical insights and cooperative frameworks that can be integrated into Ghana’s broader national strategy, ensuring the country benefits from collective knowledge and South-South cooperation.

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

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that Ghana has received a US$250,000 donation from ECOWAS to assist victims of the devastating floods that occurred in June 2026. The contribution, which amounts to approximately GH₵3 million, is intended to provide critical support to the tens of thousands of citizens affected by the disaster across several regions. To ensure complete transparency and avoid any potential for political interference, the government has transferred the funds to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA). Mr. Ablakwa explained that ADRA will serve as an independent partner, taking full responsibility for the administration and distribution of the aid. By outsourcing the beneficiary selection and fund management to an external agency, the government aims to guarantee that the relief reaches those most in need without partisan influence. The announcement comes in the wake of official reports detailing the severe impact of the June floods, which displaced more than 89,736 people and resulted in 34 fatalities. The floods caused extensive property damage across seven regions, creating an urgent need for humanitarian intervention. The ECOWAS donation is expected to bolster ongoing recovery efforts and provide immediate relief to displaced families and the relatives of those who lost their lives. Minister Ablakwa made these remarks following the inauguration of Ghana’s National Consultative Committee on Regional Integration (NCCRI) of ECOWAS. He emphasized that this gesture from the regional body underscores the importance of regional solidarity and integration. The establishment of the NCCRI further highlights the government's commitment to maintaining a robust relationship with ECOWAS to address both economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country and the sub-region.

Ejisu Assembly members give President Mahama one week to sack Jerryne Asante
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Ejisu Assembly members give President Mahama one week to sack Jerryne Asante

Assembly members in the Ejisu Municipality of the Ashanti Region have issued a one-week ultimatum to President John Dramani Mahama to dismiss the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Jerryne Asante. The members cited a breakdown in governance and alleged financial misconduct as the primary reasons for their demand, expressing deep frustration that previous formal complaints and petitions have not resulted in executive action. This latest move marks an escalation in a long-standing dispute between the local representatives and the MCE. The accusations against Ms. Asante are extensive, including claims of gross mismanagement, misappropriation of funds, and the deliberate undermining of Assembly decisions. Specifically, the members pointed to alleged fraudulent activities related to the issuance of building permits and a persistent negligence regarding pressing sanitation issues within the municipality. These grievances were first formally raised during a press conference on July 24, 2026, yet the Assembly members contend that no tangible action has been taken by the presidency to rectify the situation since then. The situation has been further compounded by the perceived failure of a presidential committee that began investigating the matter over two months ago. According to the Assembly members, the delay in releasing the committee’s findings and the subsequent lack of executive intervention have significantly weakened the authority of the local legislative body. They noted that an earlier attempt to pass a vote of no confidence against the MCE was frustrated, leading to the current state of administrative paralysis within the Ejisu Municipal Assembly. In addition to the removal of the MCE, the Assembly members are demanding the immediate transfer of other municipal officials whom they believe are implicated in the alleged misconduct. They warned that if President Mahama does not act within the seven-day period, they will resort to further, unspecified actions to ensure their demands are met and local governance is restored. This development places significant pressure on the administration to resolve the leadership crisis in one of the Ashanti Region's key municipalities.