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.

Some residents of Dome-Kwabenya, Comet, Berekuso, Agyementi and Kitase during the demonstration
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President Mahama Accelerates Infrastructure Delivery with Aggressive 2027 Deadlines for Saglemi Housing and 'Big Push' Road Projects

President John Mahama has signaled a major shift toward rapid infrastructure delivery, setting firm deadlines for several stalled and new national projects. During a tour of the Saglemi Affordable Housing Project on August 20, 2026, the President announced that the first 700 housing units will be completed and commissioned by March 2027, with a target of 1,500 total units by the end of that year. To achieve this, the government has partnered with LMI Holdings to resolve long-standing infrastructure challenges, including the installation of water facilities, underground cabling, and solar power. President Mahama emphasized that the project, originally initiated under late President Mills, must finally be realized to address the country’s housing deficit and support workers in nearby industrial hubs. In tandem with housing efforts, the Ministry of Roads and Highways has launched an accelerated 24-month timeline for its 'Big Push' road programme. Deputy Minister Alhassan Suhuyini confirmed that while these major projects typically require 36 months, contractors have been mandated to complete the majority by the end of 2027. Critical sections, such as the Adenta corridor, are expected to see significant traffic relief by December 2026. Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza has further intensified these efforts by directing 24-hour work cycles on the Tema Motorway project, managed by Maripoma Enterprise Limited, to ensure it remains a viable link between the Tema Port and the rest of the country despite current traffic disruptions. The government's infrastructure drive also extends to smaller-scale projects that had been previously abandoned. Minister Agbodza revealed that the Ntotroso bridge over the River Tano is on track for completion by September 2026, marking the end of an eight-year wait for local residents. This is part of a broader plan to finish approximately 50 critical bridges across Ghana. However, the administration continues to face public pressure, as seen in recent demonstrations by residents of the Berekuso-Kitase area who are demanding the immediate resumption of a neglected 22-kilometre road project they claim is essential for transit between Accra and the Eastern Region. Beyond physical construction, the administration is moving to settle outstanding social and labor obligations. Volta Regional Minister James Gunu announced that, under President Mahama’s instruction, the Ministry of Finance will release funds to compensate victims of the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage before the end of 2026. Simultaneously, the government is navigating labor tensions with the Ghana Mineworkers’ Union, which has set a September 2026 deadline for the abolition of the contract mining policy. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has committed to reviewing the union's petition to ensure worker protections are maintained as the administration pushes for total project accountability by mid-2027.

Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister of Energy, cutting the sod to start the project. Picture CALEB VANDERPUYE
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Energy Minister John Jinapor Summoned to Parliament as Recurring Blackouts and Nuclear Ambitions Dominate National Agenda

Parliament’s Energy Committee, led by Deputy Ranking Member Collins Adomako-Mensah, has issued a formal call for the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, and the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) to appear before the house. The summons follows two significant nationwide power outages occurring within a single month, specifically on July 29 and August 20, 2026. Adomako-Mensah expressed deep concern over a perceived lack of transparency, noting that while GRIDCo claims to have submitted a report on the July outage to the Ministry, the committee has been forced to rely on media commentary rather than official documentation. This lack of access has reportedly hampered the legislature’s ability to independently assess the root causes of the system failures and evaluate the effectiveness of corrective measures. The Ministry of Energy has acknowledged the current fragility of the national grid, attributing recent disruptions to a fault on the Akosombo-Volta transmission line. Richmond Rockson, a spokesperson for the Ministry, revealed that the system is currently operating via a temporary control room after critical infrastructure was previously damaged. While engineers successfully restored power following the most recent blackout, the Ministry admitted that the interim arrangement leaves the network vulnerable to volatility. A permanent control facility, originally slated for completion in August, is now expected to be operational by the end of September. Minister Jinapor has appealed for public patience, reassuring citizens that the completion of the permanent switchyard will significantly enhance the resilience of the national power supply. Amidst these immediate operational challenges, the Mahama administration is aggressively pursuing long-term energy security through the integration of nuclear power. During the third US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit held in Accra, Minister Jinapor and other government officials affirmed Ghana’s transition to Phase Two of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) milestone approach. The administration views nuclear energy as a cornerstone for industrialization, aiming to stabilize the energy mix and meet a peak demand that is projected to grow significantly from the current 4,500 megawatts. The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has backed this move, urging that the nuclear program be treated as a strategic national project to ensure the competitiveness of key sectors like mining and agro-processing. Beyond systemic stability, the government is expanding infrastructure through a GH"&"598 million electrification project under the "Big Push" initiative, targeting 211 communities in the Central Region. To ensure the financial sustainability of such investments, Minister Jinapor has also directed the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to intensify its scrutiny of the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) commercial operations. This multifaceted approach—combining immediate repairs, parliamentary accountability, and long-term nuclear planning—reflects the government’s attempt to resolve persistent power threats while positioning Ghana as a regional energy hub.

Mr Sammy Gyamfi
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Sammy Gyamfi Refutes Minority's GH¢22 Billion GoldBod Loss Claim, Reports GH¢5.4 Billion Surplus

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has vigorously denied allegations from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin regarding a GH"22 billion ($1.7 billion) loss in 2025. During a Government Accountability event, Gyamfi presented audited financial statements indicating that GoldBod actually recorded an operational surplus of GH"907 million and an overall surplus exceeding GH"5.4 billion for the year. The dispute centers on the interpretation of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report concerning the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). Gyamfi clarified that while the GH"22 billion loss is a matter of record, it pertains to the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) financial outcomes from gold sales rather than GoldBod's operations. Developing the defense, Gyamfi emphasized that GoldBod’s role was limited to acting as a purchasing agent for the central bank and did not involve the subsequent sale or pricing of the gold, which led to the reported losses at the Bank of Ghana. He challenged the Minority Leader to substantiative his claims through formal parliamentary procedures rather than media press conferences, declaring his readiness to appear before any committee to defend the institution's integrity. The CEO further dismissed the allegations as "barefaced lies" and cautioned against misinterpreting technical financial data to score political points. However, NPP figures like Akosua Manu and Mike Ocquaye Jr. have countered this, describing the surplus claim as a "technical sleight of hand" and arguing that the current administration has failed to effectively implement the gold-purchasing concept originally envisioned by the NPP. The Minority Caucus in Parliament remains unsatisfied with Gyamfi's explanation, demanding full transparency regarding the fees paid to GoldBod and the funding arrangements for the Ghana National Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Roadmap Programme (GANRAP). Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin argued that the state cannot celebrate positive economic indicators while distancing itself from a loss representing approximately 1.5% of Ghana’s GDP. The opposition has criticized the "inappropriate tone" of Gyamfi’s rebuttal, with support from some observers who believe that personal attacks have overshadowed the necessary scrutiny of public funds. Even within the NDC, figures such as Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye have suggested that while the Minority's claims might be politically motivated, the CEO’s communication style was unnecessarily harsh for a public official. Beyond the immediate financial dispute, the controversy has sparked a broader debate on the management of Ghana’s mineral wealth. Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni and others have urged both sides to cease personal hostiles and provide Ghanaians with clear, factual figures on how such significant losses were incurred under the DGPP. As the Bank of Ghana grapples with reported negative equity of GH"93.8 billion, the performance of GoldBod remains a flashpoint for political tension. The next steps are expected to involve potential parliamentary summons as the Minority continues to press for a detailed audit of the relationship between GoldBod’s purchasing fees and the central bank's ultimate trading losses.

Ghana, Russia sign visa waiver agreement for diplomatic, service passport holders
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Kenneth Gilbert Adjei Pledges Defence Modernization as Ghana Strengthens Diplomatic and Security Ties

Ghana’s political and security landscape has seen significant shifts as newly appointed Minister of Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, officially assumed office. Pledging a comprehensive modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Adjei emphasized the need to address evolving security threats, including violent extremism and cybercrimes. His agenda focuses on enhancing personnel welfare and strategic logistics, succeeding Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. This transition aligns with recent calls from former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who, during the 2026 Busia Institute Lecture, urged citizens to safeguard democratic institutions, reminding the nation that electoral victory is not synonymous with state ownership but a mandate for inclusive governance. On the diplomatic front, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has successfully negotiated a landmark Visa Waiver Agreement with Russia for diplomatic and service passport holders. This historic agreement, signed during a visit to Moscow, marks the first such arrangement since formal ties began in 1958. Furthermore, Russia has doubled its annual scholarship allocation for Ghanaian students from 120 to 240, prioritizing specialized fields such as artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, and petroleum sciences. These developments come as the National Peace Council urges residents, particularly in Naaga, to remain vigilant against the infiltration of extremist groups, highlighting the role of social media in radicalization. Internal security and law enforcement have also seen major activity. Under Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, the Police Administration has promoted 13,689 officers in just over a year to boost morale and reward bravery. However, the service faces challenges, including a planned two-month strike by the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana over alleged extortion by security personnel. In a notable act of community enforcement, youth in Tanoso recently apprehended the Tanoso Ankobeahene, Nana Amoako Atta, for his alleged involvement in illegal mining activities near the Tano River, subsequently handing him over to the police. In the legal sphere, the Ashaiman District Court has remanded WOII Dzisenu Ben into police custody following the alleged murder of Abdul Shaban during a confrontation at Mawugbedzibe. Simultaneously, the police are searching for former boxer Ayittey Powers regarding alleged death threats against National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. Amidst these events, economist Professor Godfred Bokpin has cautioned against over-attributing macroeconomic stability to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), noting that while it helps reduce smuggling, primary stability remains rooted in broader fiscal and monetary policies. These varied developments underscore a period of active governance and systemic adjustment across Ghana's defense, diplomatic, and legal sectors.

Prof Samuel Kweku Hayford from UEW chairs new Graphic Communications Group Ltd Board as NMC appoints new boards for state-owned media organisations
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President Mahama and NMC Reconstitute State Media Boards as GJA Celebrates 77 Years of Democratic Vigilance

In a significant move to strengthen the country’s information landscape, the National Media Commission (NMC) has reconstituted the governing boards of four major state-owned media organizations. Following essential consultations with President John Mahama, the NMC appointed new leadership to the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the New Times Corporation, and the Ghana News Agency (GNA). These appointments come at a pivotal time as the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) celebrates its 77th anniversary, emphasizing the critical role of credible journalism in safeguarding the nation’s democratic foundations and ensuring the public remains informed rather than "walking in the dark." The newly appointed boards feature a blend of academic and industry expertise designed to provide robust oversight. Prof. Samuel Kweku Hayford has been named Chairman of the GCGL board, while Francis Mills Robertson will lead the GBC. Dr. Kwame Akuffo Anoff-Ntow and Dr. Charity Binka have been appointed to chair the GNA and New Times Corporation boards, respectively. Each board will include various members alongside the organisations' Managing Directors. This institutional refreshing is seen as a key step in fulfilling the constitutional provisions for state media independence while ensuring they remain accountable to the public interest under the current administration. During the GJA’s 77th Anniversary Symposium in Accra, the association’s leadership underscored the necessity of high professional standards to maintain media credibility. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour and Vice President Rebecca Ekpe both warned that the association cannot defend journalists if they do not uphold the integrity of the profession. Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim characterized the relationship between the media and the government as a "holy alliance" that has protected Ghana’s democracy through joint investigative efforts. Furthermore, Mr. Dwumfour challenged the government to broaden its fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, by targeting the powerful financiers and equipment suppliers who drive the illegal gold economy. Beyond media governance, the political climate reflects a push for greater administrative accountability and sector-specific support. The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, recently issued a public apology and ordered a refund to a victim of extortion by city guards, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy for official misconduct. Simultaneously, the creative arts sector has expressed renewed optimism; Kumawood actor Salinko and other creatives praised President Mahama for his consistent support of industry practitioners and his pledge to establish a welfare fund for aging creatives. These developments highlight a multi-faceted effort by the Mahama administration to address both grassroots grievances and sector-wide reforms. While Ghana celebrates these advancements in institutional governance, regional and international developments serve as a reminder of the global challenges facing press freedom. The detention of two French filmmakers in neighboring Togo and high-profile legal battles in the United States over media licensing highlight the complexities of modern media regulation. As Ghana moves forward with its new media boards and the GJA’s renewed focus on professionalism, the collaboration between the state and the press will be vital in maintaining the country’s status as a stable democracy and a protector of free expression.

Methodist Church Ghana calls for stronger action on environmental destruction
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President Mahama’s Reset Agenda Faces Scrutiny Amid Accountability Drive and Comprehensive Tax Reforms

Under the leadership of President John Mahama, Ghana is navigating an intensive push for public accountability, headlined by the government’s “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) and the 2025 State of Corruption report. According to the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), the Audit Service successfully recovered GH¢24.95 million in unearned salaries and financial irregularities during the 2025 fiscal year. While the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) secured seven convictions from 71 investigations, the GACC report also highlighted that GH¢20.49 billion in financial irregularities persist across public institutions. This drive for transparency has prompted the questioning of several former New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials, a move Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, defended as a necessary step for explaining unfulfilled contracts, despite NPP accusations of "selective justice" and political persecution. Complementing these accountability efforts, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has spearheaded a broad review of Ghana’s tax laws to modernize administration and enhance revenue mobilization. Speaking at recent conferences for the Chartered Institute of Taxation and the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Vice President emphasized simplifying VAT compliance and introducing digital monitoring devices to adapt to a changing economy. This legislative focus extends to the petroleum sector, where the Finance Committee of Parliament, led by MP Isaac Adongo, is advocating for a clear legal framework to protect the funding of the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC). PIAC is currently auditing uncompleted petroleum-funded projects, such as the Agenda 111 hospitals, while urging increased investment in exploration following a decline in production from 71 million barrels in 2019 to 37 million in 2025. Governance challenges remain at the forefront of national discourse, particularly regarding electoral integrity. The “Democracy Not for Sale” forum in Ho recently revealed that 98% of respondents in the Volta Region are aware of vote-buying practices, though a majority expressed a willingness to vote for candidates with better ideas over wealthier opponents. Stakeholders at the forum called for stricter enforcement of laws and better civic education to reduce the influence of hidden financiers. Meanwhile, the administration is managing tension in the agricultural sector, where the Young Cocoa Farmers Association has petitioned President Mahama regarding uncertainties in farming. While NDC communicators like David Wordi defend the administration's cocoa policies as benefiting farmers, NPP organizers warn that failure to address rising input costs could shift voting behavior in the 2028 elections. Religious and social advocacy groups are also demanding more proactive state action and ethical leadership. The Methodist Church Ghana, through Presiding Bishop Most Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has urged the government to fulfill its campaign promises and take stronger stances against environmental destruction caused by illegal mining. Simultaneously, the Zonta Clubs of Ghana have called for parliamentary sanctions against MP Mohammed Yakubu for comments allegedly normalizing child marriage. These calls for reform are mirrored in local administration, such as the Savannah Regional Minister’s directive to prosecute sanitation law violators and the Sissala West DCE’s distribution of 1,500 bags of fertilizer under the "Feed Ghana" program, as the government seeks to balance high-level policy reforms with immediate community needs.

Senegals former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko returned to parliament days after being sacked by the president. By SEYLLOU (AFP)
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President Bola Tinubu Navigates Economic Crisis and Legal Scrutiny as Political Tensions Rise Across Africa and the US

Campaigning has officially commenced for Nigeria’s upcoming elections scheduled for January 16, unfolding amid a backdrop of severe economic distress and escalating security challenges. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who won the 2023 presidency with 36.6% of the vote, faces what is being described as a political rematch against competitors Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar. Despite implementing ambitious reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the administration is struggling with a 34% inflation rate that has left over 60% of the population living below the poverty line. High levels of violence from armed groups and a historically low voter turnout of 27% further complicate the political landscape as the nation prepares for the polls. In addition to economic pressures, President Tinubu is facing intensified legal and international scrutiny. A United States District Court has mandated the FBI and DEA to release investigative files regarding the President by April 2025, following a lawsuit by activists and journalists seeking transparency. Despite these challenges, some analysts and public figures, including musician Davido, suggest that a fragmented opposition may inadvertently strengthen Tinubu’s prospects for the 2027 presidential cycle. The current division among opposition parties remains a significant hurdle for those seeking to challenge the incumbent’s economic and security record. Beyond Nigeria, democratic stability is being tested across the African continent. In Zambia, United Nations Rights Chief Volker Turk has expressed grave concern over the arbitrary arrest and detention of opposition figures following President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent electoral victory. Turk urged authorities to uphold due process and end the suppression of political rivals. Similarly, in Senegal, a growing rift between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Parliament Speaker Ousmane Sonko has stalled progress on setting dates for local elections. With municipal mandates expiring, the political atmosphere remains tense as the opposition pressures the presidency to avoid further delays in the democratic process. The international political sphere also saw significant movements in the United States, where primary elections in Florida and Alaska have finalized key nominees for the upcoming midterm elections. Republican Byron Donalds and Senator Dan Sullivan secured crucial victories, underscoring the shifting dynamics within the American political landscape. Meanwhile, in a case that has captured global attention for three decades, the murder trial of Tupac Shakur continues to navigate complex legal hurdles. Recent testimony from James 'Mob James' McDonald highlighted the difficulties of breaking gang-related silences in the prosecution of Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, marking a pivotal moment in the quest for judicial closure in one of the world's most notorious cold cases.

Trump Administration Negotiates Trade Truce with Canada While Advancing Major Deportation Policies in Africa
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Trump Administration Negotiates Trade Truce with Canada While Advancing Major Deportation Policies in Africa

The United States administration under President Donald Trump has moved to reshape its international trade and immigration landscapes through a series of high-stakes maneuvers. In a significant reprieve for North American economic relations, President Trump announced a three-day delay in imposing a proposed 50% tariff on nearly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. This pause comes as negotiators from both nations work to finalize a comprehensive trade deal aimed at resolving long-standing disputes, including U.S. tariffs on automobiles and Canadian restrictions on American liquor sales. A potential cornerstone of this emerging agreement is the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline, a project intended to transport oil from Alberta to the U.S., which had previously been stalled due to environmental and political opposition. While trade tensions with Canada show signs of thawing, the administration is simultaneously intensifying its immigration enforcement through new international agreements and legal victories. Liberia has officially agreed to accept up to 1,200 deportees from the United States over the next year, including third-country nationals who cannot be repatriated to their home countries. The first group of 20 individuals is expected to arrive in Monrovia shortly. Although the Liberian government stated that it is not receiving direct compensation for this arrangement, the U.S. will provide support for resettlement and migration management. The deal has drawn scrutiny from critics who view it as a problematic expansion of U.S. influence over foreign immigration systems, though Liberia has framed the move within its historical context as a refuge for displaced persons. On the legal front, the administration has secured a pivotal victory regarding the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) of thousands of migrants. U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy in Boston recently upheld the decision to terminate TPS for over 5,000 Ethiopians, effectively clearing the way for the Department of Homeland Security to end legal protections that were originally granted under the previous Biden administration. This ruling followed a U.S. Supreme Court decision that limited judicial review of such executive actions. While the judge dismissed several claims, he allowed litigation to continue regarding potential racial motivations behind the termination. Advocacy groups, such as African Communities Together, have expressed grave concerns for the safety of those facing return to Ethiopia amidst the country's ongoing internal crises. These combined developments signal a robust reassertion of the administration's "America First" agenda, balancing economic protectionism with aggressive border and immigration controls. The three-day tariff pause suggests a preference for negotiated concessions over immediate trade wars with strategic allies, whereas the deportation agreements with Liberia and the termination of Ethiopian protections underscore a commitment to reducing the number of non-citizens residing in the U.S. under humanitarian programs. As these policies take effect, the international community and domestic advocacy groups will be watching closely for the resulting economic shifts and the human impact on migrant populations across the African continent.

Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities Demand High-Level Government Engagement Following Jubilee House Protest
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Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities Demand High-Level Government Engagement Following Jubilee House Protest

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities staged a significant protest on August 19, 2026, at Jubilee House to demand immediate government action on the persistent unemployment facing their members. The group is advocating for the enforcement of the five percent employment quota for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and is seeking direct dialogue with senior administration officials. The protest highlights growing frustration over the lack of inclusion in the public sector, with the Coalition insisting that only high-ranking leadership can provide the necessary financial clearance and policy directives to resolve their grievances. The demonstration took a tense turn when the protesters refused to hand over their petition to Dr. Samuel Ayeh, a Presidential Staffer and aide to President John Mahama. Despite Dr. Ayeh presenting himself as a senior representative of the executive, the Coalition, led by Convener Gilbert Boateng, declined to submit the document, requesting instead to meet with the Chief of Staff, the Vice President, or President Mahama himself. Mr. Boateng emphasized that while the decision was not meant to be disrespectful to Dr. Ayeh, the group felt that previous petitions to lower-level staffers had failed to yield results. Following a denial of entry to the Jubilee House grounds, the group continued their picket at the nearby Christ the King Church. Central to the Coalition's grievances is the perceived failure of state institutions to uphold recruitment standards for PWDs. The group cited a recent recruitment exercise by the Ghana Education Service (GES) as a primary example of this failure; despite the Coalition providing a list of 200 qualified graduates, not a single person with a disability was hired. The protesters are calling for the Ministry of Finance to grant specific financial clearance for the recruitment of PWDs to ensure they do not have to compete on an uneven playing field with able-bodied applicants, who they say are often prioritized in general hiring rounds. Responding to the group's refusal to engage with him, Dr. Samuel Ayeh stated that he respected the Coalition's decision but maintained that he was authorized to represent the President. He suggested that the group could wait until they found an official they deemed suitable to receive the petition, while also conveying the President's best wishes. However, the Coalition remains firm in its stance, arguing that direct engagement with the nation's top decision-makers is the only way to secure the dedicated job opportunities and systemic changes required to end the marginalization of graduates with disabilities in Ghana's workforce.

Ghana Meteorological Agency Demands GH¢50 Million Debt Settlement from Civil Aviation Authority
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Demands GH¢50 Million Debt Settlement from Civil Aviation Authority

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) is facing a severe financial crisis as the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has failed to remit over GH¢50 million in statutory payments. This debt, which persists despite a formal agreement reached in March 2026, is significantly hampering GMet’s ability to provide critical weather services. According to GMet officials, the non-payment has created an unsustainable financial environment that threatens the agency's operational stability and its capacity to meet international meteorological standards. Under the amended Ghana Meteorological Agency Act of 2019, the GCAA is mandated to remit 10% of fees collected from en-route, overflight, and landing services to GMet. Additionally, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is required to pay 5% of airport passenger taxes. While GACL reportedly began making its required payments in 2023, GMet Director-General Dr. Eric Asuman has raised concerns that the GCAA remains non-compliant. The lack of these funds is described as a major blow to GMet’s ability to fund essential operations and national development initiatives. A central hurdle in resolving the dispute is GMet’s inability to access the GCAA’s flight database. Without independent verification of flight data, GMet is forced to rely on the GCAA’s self-reporting, making it impossible to confirm the accuracy of the fees owed. Dr. Asuman has called for the urgent establishment of a transparent, independent verification mechanism to track aviation activity. The situation has already escalated to Parliament’s Select Committee, as GMet seeks legislative support to compel the GCAA to honor its financial obligations. The financial strain on GMet comes at a time when accurate weather forecasting is increasingly vital for national safety, aviation security, and economic planning. The agency warns that continued non-payment threatens the sustainability of Ghana's meteorological infrastructure. Stakeholders and government observers are now looking toward the Ministry of Transport and Parliament to broker a final resolution that ensures both financial transparency and the long-term viability of the nation’s weather services.

Chairman Wontumi Pursues NPP National Chairmanship from Prison Amid Adjourned Bail Hearing
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Chairman Wontumi Pursues NPP National Chairmanship from Prison Amid Adjourned Bail Hearing

Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the embattled New Patriotic Party (NPP) politician popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is continuing his bid for the party's national chairmanship despite currently serving a 20-year prison sentence. Wontumi, who was convicted on July 20, 2026, for illegal mining activities in Samreboi and ordered to pay a fine of GH"120,000, remains a central figure in the party’s internal politics. His legal team recently faced a setback as the Accra High Court adjourned his bail application pending appeal to October 15, 2026, following the absence of the trial judge and the defense counsel during the scheduled hearing on August 19. Despite his incarceration, Wontumi’s campaign team and supporters have signaled their intent to proceed with his candidacy for the NPP national chairmanship. Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Dankwah, spokesperson for Wontumi, confirmed on Joy FM’s Newsnight that supporters plan to pick up and submit nomination forms on his behalf by the end of this week. Boakye-Dankwah maintained that there is no legal or constitutional barrier within the party that prevents an incarcerated member from contesting for office, adding that his followers view him as a "political prisoner." Prior to his sentencing, Wontumi had already completed a campaign tour across all 16 regions of Ghana. On the legal front, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, has indicated that the government will continue with the trial and legal processes involving the former Ashanti Regional Chairman. Although negotiations for a settlement had been initiated by Wontumi’s legal team, Dr. Srem Sai revealed that a GH"12 million settlement offer was deemed insufficient by the state. Consequently, the government has opted to let the judicial process take its course while Wontumi’s lawyers simultaneously pursue an appeal against both his conviction and the severity of his sentence. The ongoing legal battle and political ambition of Chairman Wontumi present a unique challenge for the NPP as it prepares for its national executive elections. While his supporters remain resolute in their loyalty, the party's leadership may face internal and public pressure regarding the optics of a convicted illegal miner seeking a high-ranking national office. The outcome of the adjourned bail hearing on October 15 will be a critical turning point, determining whether Wontumi will be able to campaign in person or if his political future will remain tethered to the outcome of his appeal from behind bars.

Minister George Opare Addo Mandates Transparency in Youth Programmes at Inaugural National Youth Forum
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Minister George Opare Addo Mandates Transparency in Youth Programmes at Inaugural National Youth Forum

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has issued a directive to agency CEOs within his ministry to publish comprehensive data on all youth intervention programmes. Speaking at the National Youth Forum 2026 held on Wednesday, August 19, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), the Minister emphasized that transparency is vital for young Ghanaians to track the usage of public funds. The move follows a formal request from Sherif Ghali, President of the Ghana Youth Federation, for the public disclosure of beneficiary lists for initiatives such as the Adwumawura Initiative and the National Apprenticeship Programme. Under the theme ‐A Sound Youth, A Sound Nation: Your Voice. Your Future. Our Ghana,‑ the forum served as a major platform for young people—who represent over 70% of the population under 35—to engage directly with policymakers. Minister Opare Addo reaffirmed the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration to prioritizing youth needs through the newly established dedicated ministry. The forum focused on addressing critical challenges in youth employment, entrepreneurship, and skills development, with the government pledging to transform the concerns and practical ideas shared by participants into actionable national policy. While the government intensifies its focus on youth and social development, other policy initiatives are facing scrutiny. The Centre for Policy Scrutiny recently questioned the rollout of the 24-hour market initiative, with Dr. Adu Owusu Sarkodie arguing that the government must address domestic production needs before expanding market hours to avoid simply facilitating the sale of imported goods. Concurrently, the transport sector is seeing significant changes with the passage of the Road Traffic Amendment Bill, 2025. Although commercial drivers in Kumasi have expressed support for the new safety regulations, they have called for extensive public education and fair enforcement to ensure compliance. These administrative efforts, which also include plans by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to introduce high-security vehicle license plates in 2026, signal a broad push for modernization and accountability under the current administration. Minister Opare Addo concluded the forum by urging the youth to take an active role in their development by acquiring new skills and collaborating with stakeholders. He assured the public that the National Youth Forum would remain a starting point for a continuous, responsive dialogue between the government and the young people who are essential to Ghana's long-term economic growth.