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.

Fair Wages and Salaries Commission to conclude 2027 base pay talks next week
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Fair Wages and Salaries Commission to conclude 2027 base pay talks next week

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has announced that negotiations for the 2027 base pay for public sector workers are currently underway, with a final agreement expected to be reached by next week. These high-stakes discussions bring together representatives from the Commission, the government, and Organised Labour to determine the salary adjustments that will apply to the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) for the upcoming fiscal year. While reports have circulated suggesting that the government and Organised Labour have already settled on a 6% base pay increase, official sources indicate that no such agreement has been finalized. According to reports from Citi News, the Commission is still in active deliberations to reconcile the government’s fiscal constraints with the demands of workers' unions. The rumors of a 6% cap appear premature as the parties continue to negotiate the specific figures that will define public sector compensation in 2027. Organised Labour’s primary focus in these negotiations is the eroding purchasing power of public sector employees. Union leaders are advocating for a significant pay raise, pointing to current inflation levels that have significantly impacted the cost of living. They maintain that any increase must be substantial enough to account for economic pressures, arguing that workers have seen their real income dwindle under the weight of rising prices for goods and services. The conclusion of these talks is timed to align with the upcoming presentation of the 2027 national budget. The final base pay figure will be a critical component of the government's expenditure plan, as it dictates the wage bill for the entire public sector. Both the government and labour unions are under pressure to reach a consensus quickly to ensure the adjustments are accurately captured in the financial statement for the next year.

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Justice Srem-Sai opposes bail for Bernard Antwi Boasiako

The Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, has formally opposed a bail application filed on behalf of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi. Appearing before the High Court, Dr. Srem-Sai argued that the convict represents a high flight risk and should not be released while he appeals his 20-year prison sentence. The state’s opposition comes as Boasiako seeks to secure his freedom pending the final determination of his legal challenge against the lengthy term. During the court proceedings, the Deputy Attorney-General contended that the evidence available strongly suggests Boasiako is likely to flee the jurisdiction if granted bail. Dr. Srem-Sai specifically cited a video involving Wontumi’s own lead counsel, Samuel Atta Akyea, as a key piece of evidence supporting the claim that the appellant poses a flight risk. The prosecution maintained that the evidence presented indicates Wontumi is likely to abscond to avoid serving his sentence. The defense team, led by Atta Akyea, has been pushing for the court to grant bail pending the outcome of the appeal process. However, the state remains firm that the custodial sentence should be maintained due to the significant risk of flight. The High Court is now tasked with weighing these arguments to determine if the convict will remain in custody or be granted temporary release. For now, Bernard Antwi Boasiako remains in prison as the judicial process continues.

Kwasi Kwarteng refutes reports of Kennedy Agyapong's NPP resignation
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Kwasi Kwarteng refutes reports of Kennedy Agyapong's NPP resignation

Kwasi Kwarteng, the former spokesperson for Kennedy Agyapong’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership campaign, has officially dismissed reports claiming that the Assin Central Member of Parliament has resigned from the party. Kwarteng clarified that the legislator remains a committed member of the NPP and is currently out of the country attending to private business matters. The denial comes in response to widespread social media speculation regarding Agyapong's political future. According to Kwarteng, no formal communication or resignation note has been submitted to the NPP leadership at any level. He explained that Agyapong is currently in China on a business trip, which explains his absence from recent public party activities. Kwarteng urged party supporters and the general public to disregard the claims, emphasizing that the rumors are unfounded and do not reflect the Member of Parliament's current status or intentions within the party. This is not the first time such reports have circulated; similar claims regarding Agyapong's departure from the NPP were debunked by fact-checking organizations as recently as March 2026. These rumors often stem from the aftermath of the NPP’s presidential primary, where Agyapong secured 23.76% of the votes, trailing behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who won the contest with 56.48%. Despite the primary loss and the party's current position in opposition following the inauguration of President John Mahama on January 7, 2025, Agyapong has previously encouraged his supporters to remain focused on the party's future. The spokesperson's clarification aims to stabilize internal party sentiment and reaffirm Agyapong’s continued alignment with the NPP as they navigate their role as the minority in the current political landscape.

President John Mahama (right) addressing members of the Western North Regional House of Chiefs at the Jubilee House
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John Dramani Mahama announces $10bn plan to combat illegal mining

President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a $10 billion New Economy Policy designed to address the illegal mining crisis by providing alternative livelihoods for Ghana’s youth. Speaking during a consultative meeting with the Western North Regional House of Chiefs at the Jubilee House, the President emphasized that the persistent challenge of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, cannot be resolved through law enforcement alone. He expressed specific concern regarding the increasing number of young people, including senior high school students, who are being drawn into the sector due to financial constraints. The President noted that economic hardship is a primary driver forcing students and young adults into hazardous mining activities. Under the proposed $10 billion framework, the government intends to create sustainable employment opportunities to wean the youth away from illegal mining. Mahama highlighted the construction industry as a key sector for job creation, citing recent economic initiatives that are already beginning to show positive growth forecasts and infrastructure development as evidence of the plan’s potential impact. To ensure the success of this dual-track strategy—combining enforcement with economic alternatives—the President called for deeper cooperation with traditional leaders. He warned that without the active involvement of local chiefs and authorities, enforcement efforts often risk leading to violent confrontations between state security and local communities. By partnering with the Western North Regional House of Chiefs, the administration aims to foster a more stable environment for implementing these economic transitions and ensuring that regional development is prioritized. In response, the chiefs of the Western North Region expressed their commitment to supporting the government’s development agenda and environmental protection efforts. This collaborative approach marks a strategic shift toward addressing the socioeconomic roots of the galamsey epidemic rather than relying solely on punitive measures. The rollout of the New Economy Policy is expected to serve as a cornerstone of the Mahama administration's plan to stabilize the regional economy and protect the nation’s natural resources for future generations.

Emelia Agbenyo is seen signing the official oath book during her swearing-in ceremony as a Deputy Electoral Commission (EC) Chair. She is dressed in a vibrant orange patterned traditional outfit, seated at a table covered with a white cloth, with a Ghana flag-themed cylinder placed beside her.
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John Mahama swears in Emelia Agbenyo and Joseph Asamoah as Deputy EC chairs

President John Dramani Mahama has officially sworn in Emelia Afi Agbenyo and Dr. Joseph Kwaku Asamoah as the new Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana. During the ceremony held on October 12, the President tasked the new officials with the critical responsibility of upholding the integrity of the institution and ensuring the smooth conduct of the nation's democratic processes. The appointments aim to strengthen the commission's leadership as it prepares for upcoming electoral activities. Dr. Joseph Kwaku Asamoah brings significant expertise to the commission, having served for over 17 years in electoral administration and public service, including several senior roles within the EC. Emelia Afi Agbenyo joins the commission with a professional background in technical education and planning. The duo fills vacancies created by the recent resignations of two former Deputy Chairpersons, restoring the commission’s executive capacity to oversee elections and referendums across the country. During the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama emphasized the fundamental role of the EC in safeguarding Ghana's democracy. He urged the new appointees to remain fair and impartial in the discharge of their duties, noting that the commission's primary duty is to protect the electoral rights of every eligible Ghanaian citizen. The President stressed that maintaining public confidence in the electoral process requires absolute transparency and neutrality from the commission's leadership at all times. These appointments come at a crucial time as the Electoral Commission faces ongoing public expectations for credible and transparent operations. By filling these executive positions with individuals possessing both technical and administrative experience, the administration seeks to bolster the EC’s operational efficiency. Moving forward, the new Deputy Chairpersons will be expected to work closely with the Chairperson to maintain a level playing field for all political stakeholders in Ghana's democratic landscape.

Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije (middle), Chairman of Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, addressing the press
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Majority Caucus defends GH₵49.72m expenditure on South Africa evacuations

The Majority Caucus in Parliament has defended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' expenditure of GH₵49.72 million used to evacuate 1,964 Ghanaians from South Africa. Led by the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Dr. Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, the caucus maintained that the ministry has provided comprehensive documentation to ensure transparency and accountability regarding the funds. The committee confirmed that a detailed report was submitted on September 18, outlining evacuee information and all associated financial transactions. Dr. Vanderpuije emphasized that the records provided by the ministry serve as a testament to openness, insisting that no funds are missing from the evacuation budget. The expenditure covered the logistics and transport required to safely return citizens to Ghana during the period of crisis. The Majority stated that the meticulous documentation of these costs demonstrates the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility even during emergency humanitarian operations. In a move to ensure broader accountability, both the Majority Caucus and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, have welcomed an independent audit of all past evacuation exercises. This proposed audit is intended to cover various missions conducted since 2017, including repatriations from Ukraine and Sudan, as well as emergency evacuations carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. The minister noted that such a review would help establish clear financial benchmarks for future operations. The debate over the GH₵49.72 million bill follows calls from the Minority in Parliament for a more detailed breakdown of the costs. While the government maintains that the safety of Ghanaians abroad is a priority that justifies these expenses, the upcoming audit and further parliamentary scrutiny are expected to address lingering questions regarding the membership strategies and financial transparency of the country's foreign policy initiatives.

CODEO urges President Mahama to demonstrate consistency with previously stated position on electoral reforms
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CODEO urges Emelia Afi Agbenyo to resign from Electoral Commission

The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has called for the immediate resignation of Emelia Afi Agbenyo from her position as Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC). The demand follows allegations regarding her partisan involvement with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2024 general election campaign. CODEO has also urged President John Dramani Mahama to demonstrate consistency with his previous positions on electoral reform by ensuring that the commission remains free from political bias. The coalition’s concerns focus on the potential for Agbenyo’s alleged political links to undermine the perceived independence and credibility of the EC. CODEO emphasized that the integrity of the electoral management body depends heavily on public confidence in the impartiality of its members. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) had previously raised similar objections to her appointment, citing her ties to the governing NDC as a conflict of interest that could jeopardize the fairness of future electoral processes. Adding weight to these calls, anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem has warned against the practice of appointing politically affiliated individuals to independent state institutions. Azeem argued that such appointments compromise the independence of commissions and stressed the need for a non-partisan approach to enhance democratic integrity. He noted that the presence of individuals with known party loyalties in sensitive roles can create public distrust in the outcomes of their work, regardless of their actual performance. In addition to seeking Agbenyo's resignation, CODEO is advocating for broader institutional reforms to ensure transparency in future appointments to the Electoral Commission. The coalition insists on greater accountability from the government and the Council of State regarding how electoral officials are selected. By pushing for these changes, the group aims to establish a more robust electoral management body that is shielded from partisan influence and capable of maintaining public trust throughout the democratic cycle.

Mahama Ayariga (right), Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, speaking at the inauguration of the steering committee of the Accra Green and Clean City Initiative, while King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, who is the chair of the initiative looks on
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Mahama Ayariga inaugurates committee for Accra Green and Clean City project

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has officially inaugurated a steering committee to lead the Accra Green and Clean City Initiative. Chaired by the Ga Mantse, King Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the committee was formed during a ceremony at the Ministry’s conference room. The initiative represents a strategic shift in urban management, focusing on transforming the national capital into a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing environment through structured public-private partnerships. At the heart of the initiative is the "Adopt a Street" or corridor programme, which invites corporate organisations to take responsibility for the maintenance and beautification of designated public spaces. The steering committee is tasked with developing clear guidelines for these adoptions, identifying high-priority areas that require immediate intervention, and formulating strategies to engage corporate partners effectively. By mobilizing resources from the private sector, the government aims to address persistent issues of littering and the lack of consistent maintenance in public corridors. During the inauguration, Mr. Ayariga stressed that achieving a sustainable and healthy urban environment requires a collective commitment from all sectors of society. He noted that while the government provides the framework and leadership, the success of the initiative depends on the active participation of public institutions, local communities, and individual citizens. This collaborative model is intended to foster a sense of shared ownership over the city’s environmental health. The Ga Mantse and his committee are expected to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between administrative policy and community action. By involving traditional leadership at the highest level, the initiative seeks to leverage cultural and local influence to drive sanitation improvements. The project’s broader vision includes creating a healthier atmosphere for residents and enhancing the international appeal of Accra as a green metropolis.

John Dramani Mahama swears in four new ambassadors at Jubilee House
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John Dramani Mahama swears in four new ambassadors at Jubilee House

President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned four new ambassadors and permanent representatives to represent Ghana in Angola, Qatar, Israel, and at the United Nations in Switzerland. During the swearing-in ceremony at Jubilee House on October 16, the President charged the diplomats with advancing the government’s Reset Agenda by prioritizing economic diplomacy. He emphasized that the success of their missions should be measured by their ability to attract foreign investment, expand trade, and facilitate job creation for Ghanaians. The newly appointed envoys are Nana Antwiwaa Dodoo (Angola), Louis Kwame Obeng (Qatar), Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable (Israel), and Jedidiah Reuben Adogla (UN, Geneva). President Mahama underscored the importance of professional discipline and accountability, urging the diplomats to promote the local processing of Ghana’s natural resources to ensure greater domestic value. He also highlighted the critical need for enhanced consular services to protect the welfare and rights of the Ghanaian diaspora in their respective jurisdictions. Each diplomat received specific mandates tailored to their postings. Mr. Adogla was directed to build coalitions with African nations at the UN in Geneva to advocate for developing economies, while Mrs. Ofosu-Amable was tasked with upholding Ghana’s commitment to a two-state solution in the Palestine-Israel conflict. In Qatar, Mr. Obeng will focus on implementing a labor mobility agreement to safeguard Ghanaian workers, and Nana Antwiwaa Dodoo was encouraged to deepen trade ties with Angola and maintain international attention on reparatory justice for the historical trafficking of enslaved Africans. President Mahama further noted that Ghana has applied for a partnership with the BRICS countries to strengthen cooperation among developing economies and diversify international partnerships. He reminded the ambassadors of the importance of their roles as Ghana prepares to chair the African Union and host the Seventh Session of the Ghana-Angola Joint Commission for Cooperation in 2027. Speaking for the group, Nana Antwiwaa Dodoo expressed gratitude for the appointments and pledged their commitment to achieving Ghana’s strategic international goals.

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United States seeks renegotiation of $109m health compact with Ghana

The United States government has requested a fresh round of talks with Ghana to renegotiate a $109 million health aid package. This development follows the Ghanaian cabinet's decision to reject the initial proposal due to significant concerns regarding national sovereignty and the security of citizen data. President John Mahama disclosed the request for further discussions, noting that Washington is now open to amending the contested clauses within the proposed five-year aid agreement. Speaking at a public forum in Goaso, President Mahama explained that the original terms of the compact were found to be incompatible with Ghana’s national interests. The agreement reportedly contained provisions that would have required the sharing of sensitive medical data with external entities and imposed limits on the jurisdiction and autonomy of local health authorities. These requirements led the cabinet to block the deal, asserting that developmental support must not compromise the country's control over its own health infrastructure. The U.S. government’s willingness to return to the negotiating table suggests an acknowledgement of the growing demand for health sovereignty among African nations. The original package was intended to channel substantial funding into the Ghanaian healthcare sector, but the current administration has maintained that such assistance must respect domestic legal and security frameworks. The rejection reflects a broader policy shift under the Mahama administration toward reducing reliance on external aid that carries restrictive or intrusive conditions. Moving forward, both nations are expected to engage in technical discussions to refine the terms of the compact. The goal of these upcoming negotiations will be to secure the $109 million in support for the health sector while ensuring that all clauses align with Ghana’s data protection laws and sovereign authority. The outcome of this process is viewed as a significant test of how Ghana balances international partnerships with the protection of its national digital and health assets.

The image shows Mustapha Ussif, Ghana's Minister for Youth and Sports, seated at a table during what appears to be a formal meeting or press briefing. He is gesturing with his right hand while looking towards someone off-camera, with documents, mobile phones, and water bottles arranged on the table in front of him.
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NPP demands parliamentary inquiry into $600,000 World Cup visa fraud

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally requested a public parliamentary inquiry into a visa scandal involving the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where more than $600,000 was allegedly collected from individuals seeking travel assistance. The opposition party is urging Parliament to summon the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to provide a comprehensive account of the failed arrangements. The NPP’s demand follows reports that dozens of Ghanaians were left stranded despite paying significant sums for visas that never materialized. Central to the controversy is the allegation that approximately 90 individuals paid for visa processing, yet only five successfully secured documentation to travel. The NPP is calling for the immediate release of all relevant documents to clarify how the process was handled and has asked for state protection for the victims who paid for assistance. The party also expressed concern over conflicting reports regarding the status of the National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, and is demanding a definitive statement from the Presidency to clarify his current standing within the administration. In his defense, Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams has dismissed calls from the Minority for his dismissal, insisting that no government funds were lost during the episode. Mr. Adams stated that his ministry only became aware of the specific visa arrangements on May 19, after receiving a formal request. According to the Minister, the travel scheme was managed by a coalition involving the United States Embassy, a group known as Tribe Culture Fest, the NSA, and the GTA. He maintained that he had no prior knowledge of the internal details of the arrangement and that the primary responsibility lay with the organizing entities. The fallout from the scandal has already led to the suspension of NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, pending the outcome of ongoing investigations. While the Minister continues to distance his office from the administrative failures, the NPP argues that a public inquiry is the only way to ensure transparency and accountability for the citizens who lost their money. As the investigation progresses, the opposition remains firm that both the Ministry and the Tourism Authority must be held responsible for the oversight of the private partners involved in the World Cup travel project.

National Service Authority extends 2026/2027 registration deadline
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National Service Authority extends registration deadline to October 23

The National Service Authority (NSA) has officially extended the registration deadline for the 2026/2027 national service year, providing additional time for eligible prospective personnel to complete their applications. Previously set to expire on October 15, 2026, the registration window will now remain open until the close of business on October 23, 2026. This adjustment applies to all eligible Ghanaian graduates and personnel expected to undertake their mandatory one-year service starting later this year. According to statements from the Authority, the decision to push back the deadline was informed by the need to ensure that all eligible National Service Personnel (NSPs) have a fair opportunity to finalize their documentation. By offering this eight-day extension, the NSA aims to mitigate the pressure on its registration systems and provide a buffer for those who may have encountered delays in the initial phase. The authority emphasized that this period should be used by those who have yet to register to avoid the last-minute rush and the potential for technical or administrative bottlenecks. To facilitate a seamless experience, the NSA has urged all prospective personnel to strictly adhere to the prescribed registration procedures. The Authority noted that following the established protocols is essential to ensuring a smooth and efficient process for both the applicants and the administrative staff. Personnel are encouraged to double-check their information and ensure all required credentials are correctly uploaded during this extended window to prevent any further inconveniences or the risk of missing out on the current service cycle. This extension underscores the National Service Authority's commitment to administrative flexibility and its goal of achieving full enrollment for the 2026/2027 cohort. The National Service Scheme remains a critical component of Ghana’s human resource development, and the successful registration of personnel is the first step in deploying graduates to various sectors of the economy. Eligible candidates are advised to treat the new October 23 deadline as final and to complete their tasks well ahead of time to secure their placements.