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.

Henry Manly-Spain
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President Mahama Swears in Three Supreme Court Justices Amid High-Profile Legal and Governance Developments

President John Mahama has officially sworn in three new Justices to the Supreme Court: Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko-Essah, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, and Justice Anthony Forson Jnr. During the ceremony held at the Jubilee House in September 2026, President Mahama urged the newly appointed justices to let the Constitution be their "compass" in every ruling. He emphasized that judicial independence and impartiality are vital for maintaining public confidence, particularly when facing political or social pressure. Speaking on behalf of the group, Justice Bernasko-Essah pledged that the bench would interpret the law without personal bias, acknowledging the sacred public trust placed in the judiciary. The appointments bring a blend of experience from the Court of Appeal, regional legal systems, and private practice to the nation's highest court. While the judiciary expands, several high-profile legal battles continue to test the state’s financial and legal systems. The Republic has concluded its case against Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau, who is accused of money laundering and causing a GH"49.1 million financial loss to the state. Meanwhile, Samuel Atta Akyea, counsel for Adu-Boahene, has dismissed reports of his withdrawal from the case as "vile propaganda," asserting that his team is preparing a robust defense ahead of the September 25 submission deadline. In a separate matter, Kow Abaka Essuman, former Legal Counsel to former President Akufo-Addo, has threatened to sue the Ministry of Finance if his outstanding salary arrears and terminal benefits are not settled by September 11, 2026, citing discriminatory delays. The national discourse on integrity was further highlighted by the rare act of businessman Henry Manly-Spain, who rejected a GH"79.7 million court-ordered tax refund, claiming the actual amount owed to him was closer to GH"10 million. Manly-Spain has petitioned the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to investigate the inflated award, emphasizing ethical responsibility during a time of national economic challenge. Conversely, the GRA is facing its own scrutiny after initiating a tax audit into the firm of lawyer Jonathan A. Alua shortly after he filed a Supreme Court challenge against the Commissioner-General’s power to waive taxes without parliamentary approval. While the GRA maintains the audit is routine, the timing has raised constitutional questions regarding administrative overreach. These developments occur as the Mahama administration faces calls from civic leaders like Dr. Kofi Amoah to implement a systemic "reset" of Ghana’s corruption culture. Dr. Amoah has urged the government to prioritize the creation of independent anti-corruption institutions and to ensure state-owned enterprises operate with transparency. As the judicial and legal landscape shifts, the inauguration of a new 10-member Governing Board for the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre, chaired by Kwesi Austin, marks a strategic effort to decentralize justice and alleviate the workload on the traditional court system. Collectively, these events underscore a period of significant institutional transition and legal accountability under the current administration.

Joseph Addae Akwaboa — Bono Regional Minister
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President Mahama Pledges Massive Infrastructure Completion by 2027 During Upper West Tour

President John Mahama has reinforced his administration’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s infrastructure, assuring residents during his "Resetting Ghana Tour" that key projects like the Wa-Han road and the 24-hour market initiative will be delivered on schedule. In a series of inspections across the Upper West Region, the President emphasized the "Big Push" programme’s role in fixing historically neglected routes and stimulating local economies. This tour marks a significant phase in the Mahama administration’s agenda to improve inter-regional connectivity and create sustainable commercial hubs across all 261 constituencies. A central pillar of this infrastructure drive is the Wa-Han road, a critical artery linking the Upper West and Upper East regions. President Mahama expressed confidence that the project, which has faced decades of poor conditions, will be completed by the end of 2027. He praised the contractor’s technical track record and detailed a phased strategy that prioritizes major trunk roads with durable asphalt sealing before extending works to feeder networks. Beyond the northern regions, the government has allocated GH"4.12 billion for 252 kilometers of road construction in the Bono Region, while technical advisors from the Ministry of Finance have defended projections that projects like the Accra-Kumasi Expressway will generate upwards of 30,000 jobs—potentially reaching 70,000 job-years when considering indirect employment in quarrying and logistics. Complementing the road network is the government’s 24-hour market initiative, designed to bolster the 24-hour economy by providing reliable, modern trading spaces. During an inspection of the Nadowli-Kaleo 24-hour market, President Mahama commended the contractor’s progress and reiterated that such facilities will be established in every constituency to support agricultural producers and small-scale traders. To ensure efficiency and accountability, the President clarified that contractors are expected to possess the financial capacity to begin work independently, with government payments triggered only after reaching a 15% completion milestone. This model aims to prevent project abandonment and ensure that traders have access to modern business environments within the current term. The "Resetting Ghana" agenda extends beyond physical structures to include social and economic stability. Local leaders and NDC officials, including Central Regional Women’s Organiser Faustina Lamptey, have urged citizens to support these developments as a means of improving livelihoods and resisting the influence of vote-buying. As the government continues its tour, addressing local concerns such as the immediate repair of bridges and the fight against illegal mining remains a priority. President Mahama’s administration is positioning these infrastructure investments as the foundation for a more resilient, connected, and productive national economy, with several key projects slated for commissioning by 2027.

President John Dramani Mahama interacting with Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte (2nd from left), Director-General, SIGA, at the conference. With them are Bernard Ahiafor (right), First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, and Seth Terkper (left), Presidential Advisor on the Economy. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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President Mahama Demands "Measurable Value" as Ghana’s SOEs Turn GH¢19.8bn Profit Amid IMF Governance Warnings

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern directive to the leadership of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), demanding they deliver "measurable public value" or face immediate leadership changes. Speaking at the 2026 SIGA Governing Boards and CEOs Conference in Accra, the President emphasized that public assets are held in trust for the Ghanaian people and must yield tangible benefits. This call for accountability comes as the 2025 State Ownership Report revealed a significant financial turnaround, with SOEs reporting a consolidated net profit of GH¢19.8 billion, a stark recovery from the GH¢2.26 billion loss recorded in 2024. Despite this improvement, the President warned that the national budget cannot continue to prop up inefficient entities, stressing that high performance will be rewarded while persistent underperformance will attract consequences. To institutionalize this accountability, President Mahama announced the proposed Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC), which will replace the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. The IPEC is designed to directly link the remuneration of SOE executives to their institutional performance and service quality. Furthermore, the President cautioned Board Chairpersons against meddling in the day-to-day management of their respective entities. He clarified that while boards are responsible for strategic direction, risk oversight, and financial integrity, they must not assume full-time executive roles. This clear distinction between governance and management is intended to foster professional autonomy and ensure that chief executives are held strictly responsible for annual growth and value creation metrics. While the financial reports show a profit surge, the sector continues to face intense scrutiny from international partners and domestic investigators. A July 2026 Technical Assistance Report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted deep-seated governance challenges, specifically criticizing the "politicization" of board appointments and centralized control by the Presidency. The IMF flagged entities like the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and the Volta River Authority (VRA) as being dominated by political figures, which may undermine independent oversight. Additionally, the IMF criticized the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) for procurement weaknesses, noting that 87% of its cocoa roads contracts were awarded without competitive tendering. These findings sparked a sharp rebuttal from Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, who accused the IMF of political bias and interfering in Ghana’s constitutional frameworks. The financial health of the sector remains a point of concern despite the recent profit, as total SOE liabilities reached approximately GH¢282 billion by the end of 2025, set against total assets of GH¢407.85 billion. This fiscal vulnerability is compounded by ongoing integrity checks, including a recent Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) investigation into former BOST Deputy MD Joseph Kpemka regarding alleged financial irregularities in a fuel supply contract. Moving forward, the government has directed the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) to publish annual performance assessments for all entities. This transparency drive, coupled with Sammy Gyamfi’s leadership at the Ghana Gold Board in promoting alternative financing and public-private partnerships, signals a broader shift toward fiscal discipline and reduced reliance on state funding.

Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Chairman of the NDC
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Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and Mahamudu Bawumia Call for Political Trust and Tolerance Amid NPP Tensions with Rev. Owusu Bempah

Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on political parties to move beyond traditional ideological identities to rebuild public trust. Speaking at the Inter-Continental Dialogue on Political Parties in Seoul, South Korea, Mr. Nketiah emphasized that the quality of a government is determined long before election day. He argued that parties must focus on continuous leadership development and merit-based recruitment to meet the rising expectations of a youth population facing significant economic challenges. During his absence, which includes participation in the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) from September 7 to 9, 2026, National Vice Chairman Chief Awudu Sofo Azorka has been appointed to act as National Chairman. In a parallel call for national cohesion, Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia urged Ghanaians to embrace tolerance and submission to the divine will. Speaking at the 2026 National Maulid hosted by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, Dr. Bawumia reflected on the evolving roles he and President John Mahama have played in Ghana’s political landscape. He described the transition of power as a testament to the nature of sovereignty and urged the youth to emulate the virtues of peace and unity. Dr. Bawumia’s remarks focused on maintaining social harmony and patience during the nation's ongoing political and economic cycles. However, this call for unity is being tested by domestic friction in the Ashanti Region, where multiple wings of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have clashed with Reverend Isaac Owusu Bempah. The NPP’s Nasara, Youth, and Women’s wings have issued strong condemnations of allegations made by the clergyman, who claimed that party members were mobilizing Muslim youth to attack his church. Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the Member of Parliament for Effiduase-Asokore, has labeled these claims as "palpable falsehoods" and threatened legal action for defamation. The party's regional youth wing has further petitioned National Security and the Ghana Police Service to investigate the matter and ensure the safety of the targeted officials. These developments highlight a period of significant transition and tension within Ghanaian politics. While leadership on the international stage seeks to institutionalize better governance and trust, local internal party dynamics continue to be shaped by religious and personal disputes. The petitioning of security agencies by the NPP wings indicates a move toward formalizing these grievances, while the NDC’s international engagements suggest an effort to align Ghanaian political structures with global standards of leadership and accountability.

Reuters The Eiffel Tower is seen from the base of the monument with clouds and blue skies around it
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President Trump Threatens Bombardier as Global Diplomatic and Economic Tensions Escalate

Economic and diplomatic tensions have reached a boiling point across several continents, led by a sharp escalation in the trade war between North American neighbors. Canada has officially implemented retaliatory tariffs on $20 billion worth of U.S. goods, with duties reaching up to 50%, following the collapse of negotiations over the USMCA. This move coincides with a direct warning from U.S. President Donald Trump to the Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier, insisting the company relocate its manufacturing to the United States or face a total sales ban in the American market. While Bombardier and Quebec officials highlighted the company’s significant contributions to the U.S. workforce, the complete cessation of communication between the two governments has raised serious concerns about long-term economic stability. In the Middle East and North Africa, the geopolitical landscape remains volatile as nations move to secure energy assets against rising hostilities. At least 12 people, including a paramedic, were killed in recent Israeli air strikes on southern Lebanon, which the Israeli military characterized as a response to Hezbollah drone activity. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned that such escalations threaten to derail ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates has begun establishing alternative energy trade routes to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to protect its exports from being "held hostage" by potential conflict between the U.S. and Iran. Further security concerns were echoed in Libya, where authorities arrested five individuals allegedly involved in a "vast plot" targeting a major energy refinery with drone strikes. Nationalist policies are also reshaping the political environment in Africa, where Kenya and Niger have taken firm stances against foreign influence. Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered the closure of small retail businesses and hawking operations run by foreign nationals, while also directing the multinational Tata Chemicals to cease operations in the country. Ruto argued that the company had not sufficiently benefited the Kenyan people and announced plans to replace it with domestic enterprises. These directives have caused diplomatic friction, with the Burundian embassy offering emergency travel documents to citizens fearing mistreatment. In West Africa, Niger has intensified its rift with Europe, officially accusing the French government of inciting a military mutiny at a key airbase, marking a new low in bilateral relations. Finally, historical legacies and institutional boundaries are being tested in Europe and the Caribbean. A Jamaican delegation has arrived in London to petition King Charles III for legal guidance regarding slavery reparations, representing a historic legal push for reparatory justice within the Commonwealth. Within the British monarchy itself, King Charles has formally clarified that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will remain non-working royals, stripping them of official engagements and HRH titles under the terms of the Sandringham Agreement. Meanwhile, in Paris, a strike by Eiffel Tower staff over a gender discrimination incident—where female workers were asked to move during a religious delegation's visit—highlighted the ongoing struggle for gender equality, prompting a formal investigation by the city's leadership.

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe Outlines Port Reforms as Sector Leaders Push for Economic Protections
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Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe Outlines Port Reforms as Sector Leaders Push for Economic Protections

The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has launched a series of initiatives aimed at modernizing Ghana’s logistics network and alleviating chronic congestion at the Tema Port. During a high-level inspection of Meridian Port Services (MPS) and the Mpakadan rail infrastructure, Hon. Nikpe emphasized the urgent need to expedite container clearance processes to prevent economic losses caused by delays. The Minister’s strategy involves a multimodal approach, including the development of a new port on Volta Lake to facilitate more efficient cargo movement to northern Ghana and landlocked neighbors such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. By integrating rail, lake, and sea transport, the government aims to reduce the heavy reliance on road infrastructure and lower the cost of doing business across the sub-region. In the agricultural sector, Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr. Gideon Boako, has taken direct action to bolster cocoa production while issuing a stern warning against the encroachment of illegal mining. Distributing 84 motorised spraying machines to local cooperatives, Dr. Boako urged farmers to resist the temptation of selling or leasing their ancestral lands to illegal miners, or "galamsey" operators, despite current economic pressures and debates surrounding cocoa pricing. He underscored that the long-term survival of the cocoa industry—a cornerstone of the Ghanaian economy—depends on environmental preservation and the adoption of modern farming techniques. The intervention comes amid rising concerns from some stakeholders regarding government pricing policies, which critics argue need adjustment to better support farmer livelihoods. Simultaneously, the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has intensified its campaign to protect local retail markets from unauthorized foreign incursions. GUTA President Clement Boateng warned Ghanaian traders against "fronting" for foreign nationals, a practice that circumvents the provisions of the new Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA) law. During a regional tour in Ashanti, Boateng indicated that enforcement operations would soon resume, and those found aiding foreigners in restricted retail sectors would face the full rigors of the law. This move aligns with broader efforts to ensure that the domestic trade environment remains competitive for indigenous businesses while adhering to revised regulatory frameworks. On the political front, the performance of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts has come under scrutiny from the opposition. James Korsah-Brown, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirant for Mfantseman, has publicly called for the replacement of Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie. Korsah-Brown criticized the Minister’s perceived lack of proactive engagement with the Diaspora and the creative economy, arguing that the sector requires more dynamic leadership to maximize its contribution to the national GDP. As President John Mahama’s administration continues to navigate these diverse sectoral challenges, the focus remains on balancing infrastructure development, environmental protection, and the enforcement of trade laws to sustain Ghana’s economic momentum.

MCE Samuel Morton and MP Afenyo-Markin Lead Peace Efforts Amid Chieftaincy Tensions and Fatal Land Disputes
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MCE Samuel Morton and MP Afenyo-Markin Lead Peace Efforts Amid Chieftaincy Tensions and Fatal Land Disputes

The Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and key Members of Parliament have launched urgent interventions to address a series of security crises across Ghana, ranging from volatile chieftaincy disputes to deadly land unrest. In Kpone, Municipal Chief Executive Samuel Tetteh Kwashie Morton has convened emergency sessions to mediate between three factions vying for leadership, while in the Effutu-Gomoa area, MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin and MP Kwame Asare-Obeng (A-Plus) are calling for calm following a violent land dispute that claimed three lives. These developments coincide with a broader government push for accountability, as the Ministry of Works and Housing issues stern warnings to contractors regarding stalled national drainage projects. In Kpone-Katamanso, the security situation remains delicate as MUSEC monitors three distinct groups attempting to install their preferred chiefs. During an emergency meeting involving heads of various security agencies, MCE Morton emphasized that any installation must strictly follow traditional and legal protocols to avoid public disorder. To prevent escalation, a follow-up meeting with representatives from all three factions has been scheduled for September 10, 2026. Morton warned that the assembly would not tolerate actions that jeopardize the peace of the municipality and urged all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over confrontation. The call for peace is echoed in the Effutu-Gomoa area, where a land dispute on September 1, 2026, resulted in three fatalities and 15 arrests. In a rare show of unity, Effutu MP Afenyo-Markin and Gomoa Central MP A-Plus released a joint video message pledging to seek justice for the victims while urging residents to refrain from further violence. A-Plus raised specific concerns regarding allegations of police brutality during the incident, while both leaders committed to visiting the affected communities to restore confidence in the local administration. This emphasis on safety extends to the media, with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) recently condemning a military assault on Adom FM reporter Obrempongba Benjamin Kwame Owusu during NPP constituency elections in Nkwanta South, further highlighting the precarious security environment during political events. Complementing these security measures, the Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, Ahmed Ibrahim, has pivoted the government's focus toward infrastructural accountability. Minister Ibrahim announced a strict blacklisting policy for contractors who fail to meet performance standards or are absent during ministry monitoring of 66 ongoing dredging projects. This initiative aims to ensure that public funds effectively mitigate flooding risks, signaling that the government will no longer tolerate the failure of public contracts that impact the safety and well-being of citizens. Collectively, these events underscore a critical period for local governance and national stability. Whether through the mediation of ancient chieftaincy rites in Kpone, the resolution of land-based violence in Gomoa, or the enforcement of professional standards in media and construction, the emphasis remains on the rule of law. Moving forward, the success of the September 10 mediation in Kpone and the results of the Ministry’s intensified project monitoring will serve as key indicators of the government’s ability to maintain order and deliver on its developmental promises.

IGP provides updates on seven major operational successes and updates on significant cases across Ghana
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IGP Yohuno and Lands Minister Buah Outline Major Breakthroughs in National Security and Galamsey Crackdown

In a series of high-profile updates on Ghana’s internal security, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Yohuno, and the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, have detailed significant progress in combating organized crime and illegal mining. During a press briefing in Accra, IGP Yohuno announced seven major operational successes made possible through enhanced intelligence and logistical support from President John Mahama’s administration. These achievements range from dismantling weapon-trading syndicates and foiling bank robberies to the high-profile extradition of 32-year-old Abraham Awundok from the UAE. Awundok is the primary suspect in the April 2026 murder of Dr. Jesse Amuah and his wife, Elizabeth Esi Amuah, a case that had drawn national concern. The Ghana Police Service has also successfully disrupted violent criminal networks across the country. In Labone, officers foiled a coordinated robbery attempt on local banks, while operations in Wassa Akropong and the northern sectors of Buipe, Tamale, and Mion led to the arrest of multiple robbery gangs and the recovery of illegal firearms, including AK-47 rifles. In a separate incident at Ashaley Botwe, police arrested two lorry station masters, Abubakari Ateni and Eric Tetteh, for allegedly plotting the murder of a woman over a debt of GH₵91,810. Highlighting regional bravery, the Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, recently promoted and honored four officers—Sergeants Moti Kwame Divine and Salifu Ishmael, and Corporals Ernest Amiyaw and John Bekara Vitus—for dismantling a syndicate terrorizing the Wa Municipality. Complementing these law enforcement successes, Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has reaffirmed the government’s uncompromising stance against illegal mining, or galamsey. During an inspection of the Ankobra River, the Minister reported the removal of nearly 3,000 illegal 'changfan' mining machines and over 237 arrests, including several foreign nationals. Minister Buah emphasized his personal commitment to integrity, stating he would rather risk his life than be corrupted by the lucrative illegal trade. He credited the security personnel for their persistence in restoring the nation's water bodies and signaled a shift toward more intelligence-led operations to dismantle the financial and logistical networks of mining kingpins. National security analysts, including Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, suggest that while these individual successes are commendable, the long-term solution lies in a permanent restructuring of the nation’s intelligence architecture. As galamsey and armed robbery evolve into sophisticated forms of organized crime, experts argue that the focus must remain on preventative measures rather than reactive damage control. Moving forward, the government intends to deepen community engagement and inter-agency collaboration to ensure that these recent operational gains translate into lasting stability and environmental restoration for all Ghanaians.

The entire place gets flooded and water enters into homes
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President Mahama’s Administration Scales Up Social Protection and Local Governance Initiatives

The government of President John Mahama has intensified its efforts to strengthen social safety nets and enhance community engagement across Ghana, led by key ministerial outreach programs. The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, under the leadership of Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, recently launched a data-driven community campaign aimed at reducing social vices and protecting vulnerable groups. During a forum in Tema Newtown, Dr. Lartey emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader commitment to mitigate vulnerabilities and encouraged parents and local stakeholders to collaborate with the government by reporting abuses through established channels. This grassroots approach aims to empower residents with the knowledge to identify and prevent unlawful practices within their neighborhoods. In tandem with social protection efforts, senior government officials are reinforcing ties with traditional and religious leadership to ensure national stability. The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, recently visited the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, to seek blessings for his new appointment. Minister Ayariga hailed the Chief Imam as Ghana’s strongest symbol of interfaith harmony, noting that the peace championed by religious leaders is essential for the successful implementation of government policies. The Chief Imam, in turn, offered prayers for President Mahama and his administration, underscoring the necessity of unity for national development. At the municipal level, the government's focus on inclusive development was highlighted by the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipal Assembly’s disbursement of GH¢267,518 to 94 persons with physical challenges. Municipal Chief Executive Ismail Zagoon-Saeed and MP Samuel Atta-Mills oversaw the distribution of funds intended for income-generating ventures, healthcare, and educational support. Meanwhile, in the finance sector, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minister for Finance and MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam, recently marked 18 years of service to his constituents. Speaking at the Enyan Abaasa Akwambo Festival, Dr. Forson expressed gratitude for the continued trust of his people as he balances his national ministerial duties with local parliamentary responsibilities. However, these successes are met with calls for greater accountability in urban management and electoral politics. In the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly, residents of La-Bawaleshie have petitioned local authorities over construction activities that have obstructed natural water flow and caused severe flooding. They are calling for urgent inspections to ensure developers comply with safety regulations. Simultaneously, in the Kpone Katamanso Constituency, independent parliamentary candidate Bishop Abraham Aidoo has launched a door-to-door campaign centered on the principles of service and accountability. These diverse local actions reflect a growing demand for responsible governance and active citizenship as the nation pursues its development goals under President Mahama's administration.

Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin — Speaker of Parliament
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Speaker Bagbin Urges OSP Probe into Parliamentary Memo as President Mahama Outlines $10B New Economy Agenda

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has formally requested the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into a controversial memorandum involving Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei. The disputed document alleges that Appiagyei rejected a GH"70,000 payment linked to a vetting exercise—a claim the MP has categorically denied as false. Speaker Bagbin emphasized Parliament’s commitment to transparency, warning of the serious legal implications of document fabrication and urging the public and media to avoid premature conclusions until the OSP verifies the document's authenticity and source. On the economic front, the administration is moving forward with its transformative agenda under President John Dramani Mahama, who has announced a US$10 billion investment to support a "New Economy" program. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) will be tasked with tracking the implementation of this program, which focuses on production, job creation, and wealth generation beyond simple economic stabilization. While the plan has received endorsements from analysts like Sekou Nkrumah, particularly regarding the 24-hour economy policy, experts have cautioned that its success depends on significant improvements to Ghana’s industrial infrastructure and energy capacity. Concurrent with these economic initiatives, a sharp debate has emerged over the performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). A heated exchange on JoyNews’ Newsfile saw IMANI Africa Vice President Bright Simons clash with Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) over a report claiming a net profit of GH"19.8 billion for SOEs in 2025. While SIGA defends the integrity of these figures as evidence of a financial turnaround, Simons has questioned the underlying methodology and data accuracy, reflecting broader tensions between civil society oversight and government reporting. To address systemic inefficiencies, the government has officially launched the second phase of the National Public Sector Reform Strategy. Led by Minister Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, the reforms aim to leverage digital technologies to improve transparency, accountability, and institutional performance across public services. These combined efforts—from the OSP's investigative oversight to the NDPC's monitoring of the US$10 billion investment—represent a multi-faceted approach by the current administration to strengthen governance and stimulate sustainable growth in the face of public and institutional scrutiny.

NCA to compensate subscribers over network outages - Sam George
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Minister Sam George Announces Subscriber Compensation and Infrastructure Reforms Amid Rising Fibre Cuts

At the Government Accountability Series on September 7, 2026, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, announced that the National Communications Authority (NCA) will introduce a mandatory compensation scheme for telecommunications subscribers by the end of the year. This initiative is designed to protect consumers from service disruptions caused by network faults beyond their control. The Minister revealed that the industry is facing a crisis of infrastructure damage, with over 8,000 fibre-optic cable cuts reported so far in 2026, resulting in repair costs for operators exceeding US$20 million. Minister George identified the government’s own "Big Push" road construction programme as the leading cause of these disruptions, accounting for 49% of all fibre cuts. He warned that if current trends continue, the number of incidents could reach 9,000 by year-end. Beyond roadworks, illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—is responsible for 25% of fibre-optic damage. Unlike road contractors who often report accidents, illegal miners frequently leave damage unreported, complicating restoration efforts and significantly threatening the stability of digital services in affected regions. To mitigate these challenges, the Ministry is proposing a "Dig Once" policy, which would mandate that road contractors install dedicated fibre chambers during the initial phases of construction. This infrastructure strategy aims to reduce the financial burden on telecom operators and improve service reliability. Despite these setbacks, the government remains committed to expanding connectivity, with plans to increase the number of new telecommunications sites from just 50 in 2025 to 800 by the end of 2026. Additionally, the Minister confirmed that 5G spectrum assignments are on track to be finalized before the year concludes. Transitioning to the broadcasting sector, the Minister announced a new cost-sharing framework and graduated tariff-support mechanism for the National Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform. Scheduled to take effect in January 2027, the framework follows a comprehensive review of the DTT platform completed in July. The new model is intended to alleviate the financial strain on qualifying broadcasters, supplementing the existing subsidized monthly tariff of $7,000 per channel. These reforms underscore the government’s broader strategy to ensure universal access to information while maintaining a sustainable digital ecosystem.

Minister Agbodza Hails Accra-Kumasi Expressway as President Mahama’s Legacy Project Amid Contractor Accountability Push
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Minister Agbodza Hails Accra-Kumasi Expressway as President Mahama’s Legacy Project Amid Contractor Accountability Push

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has positioned the Accra-Kumasi Expressway as the hallmark of President John Mahama’s infrastructure legacy, likening its potential impact to the generational interventions of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Following the successful clearing of the right-of-way by the Ghana Armed Forces, the government is now transitioning into the detailed design and contractor procurement phases. The Ghana Institute of Governance and Security (GIGS) has lauded the military's disciplined involvement in the project, suggesting that the government consider granting the Armed Forces full responsibility for the remaining phases to ensure speed and effective coordination. To safeguard the delivery of this expressway and other projects under the government’s "Big Push" programme, Minister Agbodza has introduced a strict culture of contractor accountability. During an inspection tour of the Northern Region, the Minister issued a stern warning that firms failing to meet project deadlines risk exclusion from all future government contracts. He further directed contractors to maintain regular construction schedules during official visits, emphasizing that work should only cease if safety is at risk. Agbodza criticized the practice of halting routine activities like dust control for visiting dignitaries, insisting that officials should be treated as ordinary citizens to prevent unnecessary disruptions to project timelines. Significant progress is also being reported across various regional projects, including the Tamale Outer Ring Road, which is slated for completion by the end of 2027. This project is viewed as a critical driver for mobility and investment in one of West Africa’s fastest-growing cities. Meanwhile, in the Upper West Region, the Chiefs of Tumu have acknowledged the improvements on the Wa-Tumu Road, which now allows for same-day travel between the two towns. In a symbolic gesture of accountability, the Tumu Traditional Council presented President Mahama with a traditional smock but announced they would withhold the ceremonial hat until the road is fully completed and commissioned, a milestone the government aims to reach by late 2026. Despite what the Minister described as challenging economic conditions inherited from the previous administration, the government maintains that its financial investment in road infrastructure is unprecedented. Notable advancements have been recorded in the Bono, Upper West, Upper East, and Northern regions. Agbodza has urged all contractors to maintain their current momentum, stating that the ultimate goal is to leave a lasting infrastructure mark that serves future generations, drawing parallels to historic achievements like the Tema Motorway.