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.

NPP's 'Democracy under attack' street protest underway in Accra
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NPP Leads Thousands in 'Democracy Under Attack' Protest Against Alleged Selective Justice and Political Persecution

Thousands of supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and civil society activists took to the streets of Accra on August 6, 2025, for a massive demonstration titled 'Democracy Under Attack.' Led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and high-ranking party officials, the protesters marched from the Supreme Court to the Jubilee House to voice their concerns over what they describe as the erosion of constitutional governance under President John Mahama’s administration. The demonstration culminated in the submission of petitions to both the judiciary and the presidency, calling for an end to alleged political persecution, arbitrary arrests, and the weaponization of state institutions against opposition members and dissenting voices. At the heart of the protest are allegations of 'selective justice' and judicial interference. The NPP leadership highlighted several controversial legal developments, including the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo and the acquittal of former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, which they contrast with the 20-year sentence handed to NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi. Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin vowed that the party would reinstate Torkornoo should they regain power in 2028, characterizing her removal as a blow to judicial independence. Party communicators, including Dennis 'Miracles' Aboagye, further alleged that a 'culture of fear' is being cultivated, citing the intimidation of journalists and the freezing of bank accounts of political opponents by agencies like the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). Tensions flared at the Jubilee House when the government dispatched Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Akyenpim Jantuah to receive the party's petition. NPP leaders, including National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B), condemned the move as disrespectful, arguing that the high-profile nature of the protest deserved a reception by a more senior official. Jantuah defended her status as a senior official and assured the demonstrators that their concerns would reach President Mahama. Meanwhile, the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) dismissed the protest as a 'hypocritical' exercise. NDC officials, including Rashid Tanko-Computer and Mustapha Gbande, criticized the NPP for holding the rally on the same day the nation was memorializing victims of a tragic military helicopter crash, labeling the timing as insensitive to Ghanaian cultural values. Despite the friction over timing and reception, the NPP lauded the event as a peaceful and disciplined exercise of democratic rights. Organisers such as Sammi Awuku and Salam Mustapha emphasized that the massive turnout signals a renewed unity within the party and marks the beginning of their 'journey back to power' following their 2024 electoral defeat. Moving forward, the NPP has urged the Mahama administration to shift away from retaliatory 'you do me, I do you' politics and focus on national development. The party maintains that it will continue to use lawful means to defend the rights of its members and protect the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.

Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu — Former Auditor-General
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President Mahama Leads National Relief Efforts as MPs Face Conduct Inquiries and Institutional Reforms Take Center Stage

President John Mahama has presided over a significant national relief effort at the Jubilee House, presenting GH"1.87 million in compensation to the families of victims from the August 2026 military helicopter crash. The package includes GH"1 million trust funds for each surviving child, supported by a GH"10.16 million Children’s Support Fund bolstered by public donations. This executive commitment to social welfare is mirrored in the agricultural sector, where Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo-Prampram and Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, distributed 3,500 bags of fertilizer to local farmers under the "Feed Ghana" program. George noted that these initiatives are vital for enhancing food security and supporting rural livelihoods under the current administration. In the legislative sphere, public accountability and personal conduct have come under intense scrutiny. Ahafo Ano South East MP Yakubu Mohammed issued a public apology for inappropriate remarks made to a schoolgirl during a parliamentary visit, acknowledging that his "cultural jest" regarding marriage undermined the dignity of children and the purpose of the educational tour. Simultaneously, the government is monitoring the legal status of Asante Akim North MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong, who is currently detained in Amsterdam pending a U.S. extradition order. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the state is providing consular assistance to ensure Frimpong receives due process, highlighting the complex legal challenges facing members of the House. Institutional integrity remains a focal point as several government bodies released major reports. Outgoing Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu submitted the 2025 audit reports to Parliament, calling for urgent action on irregularities in sea defense projects and public health management. The National Labour Commission also revealed that it has adjudicated 13,113 cases in the past two decades, with 58% centered on unfair dismissals. Security governance is also being reinforced, with Major General Anthony Ntem of the Ghana Boundary Commission completing a five-day assessment of the Ghana-Togo border to address infrastructure and telecommunications gaps. These efforts are complemented by the National Biosafety Authority’s fifth report, which marks a significant transition to a robust regulatory framework for GMOs in Ghana. Regionally, the political landscape is marked by increasing volatility and significant shifts in leadership aspirations. Burkina Faso has been added to a human rights watchlist following a severe crackdown on over 1,000 civil society organizations by the military government. In Uganda, the health crisis of opposition leader Kizza Besigye, currently unconscious during a treason trial, has sparked international concern over democratic space. Furthermore, former Senegalese President Macky Sall’s bid for the UN Secretary-General position has stumbled following a disappointing Security Council straw poll. As Ghana navigates these internal and external dynamics, the focus remains on balancing economic development with the high standards of public service and regional stability.

Odeneho Kwaku AppiahOdeneho Kwaku Appiah
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NPP Regional Chairmanship Aspirants Pledge Reorganization and Unity to Reclaim Power in 2028

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has entered a critical phase of internal reorganization as aspirants for regional chairmanship positions begin intensive campaigns across Ghana. Following the party's defeat in the 2024 general elections to the current President, John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), key figures in the Ashanti and Northern regions are positioning themselves to lead the charge for recovery. These regional contests are viewed by political analysts as pivotal for rebuilding party structures and reconciling disgruntled members before the 2028 electoral cycle begins in earnest. In the Northern Region, Alhaji Inusah Amadu, popularly known as "Dagomba Boy," has officially declared his intention to run for the regional chairmanship for the third time. Amadu’s campaign centers on a pledge to reunite a fractured regional party and reclaim parliamentary seats lost in the previous election, most notably the Yendi constituency. He emphasized that rebuilding public confidence and strengthening grassroots connections are the primary requirements for restoring the party’s dominance in the north. Facing competition from two other contenders, Amadu argues that his previous experience and local standing are essential to addressing the party's disappointing 2024 performance. Simultaneously, the race in the Ashanti Region—the NPP’s most significant electoral stronghold—has intensified between Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, known as COKA, and Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the former CEO of the Environmental Protection Agency. Appiah is currently touring constituencies and utilizing media platforms to engage delegates, stressing that his leadership would focus on creating robust party structures to support the 2028 presidential bid of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. With the regional executive elections scheduled for August 15, 2026, Appiah is leveraging his strong grassroots support to present himself as the candidate capable of ensuring the NPP remains a formidable force in its heartland. These regional elections serve as a vital bellwether for the NPP’s national prospects and its ability to function as an effective opposition. As the party transitions from the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo to a new leadership era, the success of these regional aspirants in fostering unity will be critical. The outcomes of the upcoming polls in the Ashanti and Northern regions will likely dictate the party’s internal cohesion and its readiness to challenge President Mahama’s administration in the next general election.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (right), Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, interacting with Robert Makila Sambian, CEO, VALCO
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President Mahama Spearheads Industrial Revival with Tema Oil Refinery Expansion and Sweeping Cocoa Sector Reforms

President John Dramani Mahama has commissioned the refurbished Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), signaling a decisive step toward industrial self-reliance and energy security. During the ceremony, the President revealed that the refinery has successfully processed one million barrels of locally produced crude oil, achieving this operational milestone without direct government financial intervention. To further bolster the facility, President Mahama directed the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, to develop a strategic plan to increase TOR’s production capacity to 100,000 barrels per day. The President emphasized that the goal is to eliminate political interference and transform the refinery into a premier petroleum hub for West Africa, facilitating regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while creating sustainable jobs.\n\nIn parallel with energy sector improvements, the administration is moving to modernize other vital state-owned assets. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, recently visited the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO) to assure workers that the smelter is not for sale, despite rumors of privatization. While the government is seeking a strategic investor to provide the $700 million needed for equipment modernization and to address a $250 million debt, the Minister maintained that VALCO will remain a cornerstone of the national industrialization agenda. This commitment to state oversight has been met with calls for greater transparency from the Minority in Parliament, particularly regarding the transfer of the Damang Mine. Ranking Member Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong argued that the state should have leveraged the transfer to increase its equity from 10% to 30% to secure better long-term revenue for Ghanaians.\n\nFurthering the government’s value-addition strategy, Parliament has passed the landmark Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026. This legislation aims to revolutionize the cocoa sector by shifting away from international syndicated loans toward a local funding model. The bill mandates that at least 50% of Ghana's cocoa be processed domestically and guarantees that farmers receive a minimum of 70% of the free-on-board (FOB) price. Combined with the President's new incentives for businesses operating 24-hour shifts, these reforms reflect a coordinated effort to transition Ghana from an exporter of raw materials to an industrial powerhouse. These developments collectively underscore a political focus on strengthening state enterprises and maximizing the national benefit from Ghana's natural resources.

Minister Agnes Naa Momo Lartey and Stakeholders Call for Digital Vigilance and Victim Protection in National Anti-Trafficking Strategy
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Minister Agnes Naa Momo Lartey and Stakeholders Call for Digital Vigilance and Victim Protection in National Anti-Trafficking Strategy

Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called for heightened national vigilance to combat the evolving tactics of human traffickers, particularly the rising use of digital platforms for exploitation. Speaking at a symposium for the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Dr. Lartey noted that while the Human Trafficking Act of 2005 has provided a strong legal foundation for two decades, criminals are increasingly leveraging social media and online scams to recruit victims. Data from 2025 highlights the scale of the challenge, with 2,331 victims successfully rescued within a single year. The Minister emphasized that the current administration under President John Mahama remains committed to the three pillars of prevention, protection, and prosecution to safeguard vulnerable citizens. Adding to the call for systemic reform, Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Justice Kudzo Normeshie, representing the International Centre for Safe Migration, urged the government to integrate victim protection directly into its ongoing operations against illegal mining, or galamsey. Normeshie argued that current anti-galamsey efforts focus heavily on environmental degradation and economic loss while often overlooking the human trafficking networks that thrive in remote mining districts. He cautioned that law enforcement actions can inadvertently displace trafficking networks without providing the necessary support systems, and he called for structured identification protocols and a stronger social welfare presence in mining-affected areas to restore the dignity of those exploited. Furthermore, the International Justice Mission (IJM) has advocated for a more cohesive partnership between government bodies, civil society, and the media to sustain the fight against trafficking. Anita Budu, IJM’s West Africa Programme Director, stressed the importance of a coordinated national response that moves beyond disjointed institutional efforts. She outlined five key commitments for future strategy, including improved data sharing, embedding victim-centered approaches into the justice system, and amplifying the voices of survivors. Budu also lauded the role of the media in identifying victims and raising public awareness, which has directly led to successful rescue operations across the country. As Ghana marks 20 years of formal anti-trafficking legislation, the consensus among stakeholders points toward a more holistic approach that addresses both new digital threats and established vulnerabilities in the extractive sectors. By strengthening partnerships through organizations like the Coalition of NGOs Against Child Trafficking and the Ghana Survivor Network, authorities aim to create a more resilient safety net. Moving forward, the government and its partners intend to focus on community-level reporting and the establishment of confidential channels to ensure that the progress made since 2005 is not undermined by the shifting landscape of modern exploitation.

FIFA Abandons World Cup Stake Sale Amid Governance Crisis as Hamas Agrees to Phased Gaza Peace Deal
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FIFA Abandons World Cup Stake Sale Amid Governance Crisis as Hamas Agrees to Phased Gaza Peace Deal

Global political and institutional governance has been marked by two significant developments involving a major diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East and a substantial reversal at FIFA. In a move announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, Hamas has agreed to a conditional disarmament in Gaza as part of a multi-phase peace initiative aimed at concluding the long-standing conflict. Simultaneously, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially scrapped a controversial proposal to sell private stakes in the men’s and women’s World Cup tournaments following an unprecedented backlash from regional confederations and high-profile internal resignations. Both events highlight a shift toward prioritizing institutional stability and traditional governance structures over radical commercial or military strategies. The agreement regarding Gaza represents a potential turning point for regional stability. Under the initiative facilitated by the Board of Peace, Hamas is set to relinquish its weaponry, though negotiator Ghazi Hamad emphasized that this is strictly contingent on Israel upholding its end of the truce. Requirements for Israel include a total cessation of attacks on Palestinians and the withdrawal of military forces from the territory. The disarmament process is expected to be phased, starting with the handover of small arms by the Gaza police, while the decommissioning of heavy weaponry could take between 200 and 350 days. International observers remain cautiously optimistic, noting that the plan also envisions the establishment of a new Palestinian governing body and significantly improved humanitarian conditions. In the world of international sports governance, the collapse of FIFA’s private investment initiative has left the federation reeling. The plan to sell stakes in flagship competitions faced fierce opposition from major bodies, including UEFA and Concacaf, which threatened to boycott future World Cups. The dissent extended into FIFA’s own administration, leading to resignations from senior figures such as advisor Carlos Cordeiro and the federation's chief operating officer. Opponents argued that the move threatened the public-centric nature of the sport in favor of corporate interests. A consolidated bloc of over 136 votes against the measure made its passage impossible, forcing President Infantino to acknowledge the project’s divisive nature. As these situations unfold, the focus for both global diplomats and sports administrators has shifted toward reconciliation and rebuilding trust. Infantino is now under significant pressure to mend fractured relationships with regional confederations ahead of his re-election bid at the FIFA Congress in March 2025. In the Middle East, the success of the peace plan hinges on the rigorous implementation of the agreed-upon phases and the management of regional tensions involving actors such as Iran. Both developments highlight the complexities of modern governance, where unilateral initiatives—whether commercial or military—increasingly face resistance from established stakeholders and international coalitions.

President John Mahama and Gabonese President Oligui Nguema Strengthen Bilateral Ties as Morocco Marks Historic Royal Anniversary
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President John Mahama and Gabonese President Oligui Nguema Strengthen Bilateral Ties as Morocco Marks Historic Royal Anniversary

President John Mahama has concluded a successful three-day state visit with Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema at the Accra International Airport, marking a significant milestone in Ghana-Gabon relations. The high-level engagement resulted in the signing of two pivotal Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing political consultations and fostering cooperation in diplomatic training. During the visit, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing a shared vision for a prosperous and united Africa. President Nguema also paid his respects to Ghana's history, laying wreaths at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and honoring the legacy of former President Jerry John Rawlings. While Ghana strengthens its ties with Gabon, the broader African diplomatic landscape is also witnessing significant developments in the north. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI celebrated the 27th anniversary of his accession to the throne, receiving global accolades at the Royal Palace in Tetouan. A focal point of these celebrations has been the continued recognition by the United States of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. In messages marking the royal anniversary, the U.S. government reaffirmed its support for Morocco's autonomy proposal as the only viable solution to the long-standing territorial dispute, highlighting a 250-year-old friendship and a commitment to strategic sectors like energy and technology. However, the celebrations in Morocco coincide with a growing migration crisis at the borders of the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Spain has recently condemned what it describes as a "selfish and unlawful" response from several European Union member states following an influx of approximately 60,000 migrants from Morocco. The situation escalated when Italy temporarily suspended the Schengen agreement with Spain, a move supported by Finland and Denmark. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro S!nchez has insisted that border security must be a shared EU responsibility, even as Spain deploys additional security forces and maritime barriers to stabilize the border zone and combat trafficking gangs. These interconnected events underscore the complex interplay of diplomacy, regional security, and migration currently shaping African and European relations. While President Mahama and President Nguema focus on institutionalizing cooperation through diplomatic training and political dialogue, the tensions in Ceuta and the diplomatic maneuvers surrounding Western Sahara highlight the challenges of maintaining regional stability. As Ghana continues to position itself as a hub for continental peace and development, these developments serve as a reminder of the critical need for collaborative governance and robust international partnerships across the African continent.

Chamber of Parliament
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President Mahama Administration Proposes Sweeping Constitutional Reforms to Transform Ghana's Democracy

The Ghanaian government, currently led by President John Mahama, has introduced a comprehensive constitutional reform package aimed at evolving the nation from an electoral democracy into a developmental one. Presented by Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, the proposal includes 206 amendments, most notably the extension of the presidential term from four to five years and a reduction in the minimum age for presidential candidates to 35. These changes are designed to enhance long-term planning and inclusivity, although they have immediately become the subject of intense national debate regarding their impact on governance and stability. Complementing these executive changes, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has called for the formal inclusion of traditional and religious leaders within the parliamentary framework. Bagbin argues that the moral authority and grassroots legitimacy of these figures are essential to combatting political monetization and restoring public trust in the legislature. While this move seeks to reduce partisanship, it has faced criticism from those who believe such inclusion could compromise the separation of powers and the principles of democratic representation. Additionally, the government has proposed a 300-member cap on Parliament and the removal of the ban on dual citizens holding parliamentary office. The proposal to extend the presidential term has met significant resistance from civil society and the opposition. Dr. Jonathan Asante-Otchere of the African Institute of Strategic Studies argued that the quality of leadership is more vital than term length, warning that a five-year term could prolong the tenure of bad presidents. Simultaneously, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed deep suspicion, with National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye accusing President Mahama of pursuing a veiled third-term agenda. This centers on a legal challenge regarding Article 66 and whether Mahama, currently in his second non-consecutive term, could contest the 2028 elections—a claim the President has explicitly denied. As Ghana moves toward a planned 2027 referendum on these issues, the legislative process will begin with the submission of Constitutional Amendment Bills to Parliament. Other proposed reforms include the taxation of the President, fixed election dates, and the election of District Chief Executives. The coming months will be critical as the nation weighs the benefits of these structural changes against fears of power consolidation, with the ultimate goal of creating a more resilient and representative democratic system.

President Mahama pays tribute to Victor Gbeho at funeral service
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President Mahama Leads National Tributes for Diplomat Victor Gbeho and Dagbon’s New Regent

President John Mahama has led the nation in honoring the legacies of several prominent Ghanaian figures, headlined by a state funeral for the veteran diplomat James Victor Gbeho and the formal enskinment of a new Regent for the Dagbon Kingdom. Speaking at the State House in Accra, President Mahama described Ambassador Gbeho, who passed away at age 91, as a paragon of integrity and professionalism. The President was joined by Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and international dignitaries, including former Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba, to bid farewell to a man who served Ghana for over five decades in roles ranging from UN Ambassador to President of the ECOWAS Commission. To immortalize his contributions, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that a facility within the new Foreign Affairs Ministry block will be named in Gbeho’s honor. Simultaneously, the Dagbon Kingdom entered a new era of leadership with the installation of Kampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari as Regent following the death of Ya-Na Abukari Mahama II. The enskinment ceremony at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi saw the attendance of both President Mahama and the 2028 NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Both leaders emphasized the importance of peace and unity during the transition. President Mahama praised the resilience of the Dagbon people and urged the new Regent to maintain the stability established by his predecessor. The ceremony was supported by a heavy security presence, including 79 officers from the Ghana Prisons Service, ensuring the event concluded peacefully under the supervision of the Dagbon Traditional Council. In tandem with these national events, Parliament paid a solemn tribute to the late Hon. Duut Emmanuel Kwame, the former Member of Parliament for Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo. Led by the current MP, Dr. Abed-Nego Lamangin Bandim, the House observed a minute of silence for the man known as "Teacher Yupiong," celebrating his lifelong dedication to education and the welfare of his constituents. Meanwhile, in the Central Region, the burial of the renowned inventor and founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission, Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, proceeded in Gomoa Mpota. Despite an ongoing legal dispute between family members over funeral arrangements, the ceremony drew large crowds of traditional leaders and mission members who gathered to celebrate the Apostle’s contributions to engineering and Ghanaian society. These ceremonies collectively underscore a period of significant transition in Ghana’s political and traditional landscapes. Whether through state honors for diplomats or the enskinment of traditional rulers, the events highlighted a shared national focus on preserving legacy and ensuring stability. President Mahama’s active participation in both the diplomatic and traditional rites reaffirms the government’s commitment to honoring public service and maintaining social cohesion as the nation moves forward with its development agenda.

Parliament passes new fuel tax law to stop smugglers from cheating the system
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Parliament Passes Energy Sector Levies Amendment to Curb $25 Million Fuel Smuggling Loss

The Parliament of Ghana has passed the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2026, a move designed to plug significant revenue leakages in the downstream petroleum sector. Approved on July 31, 2026, the legislation targets an estimated US$25 million (over GH¢1 billion) in annual losses caused by fuel smuggling and the misclassification of petroleum products. Under the administration of President John Mahama, the government introduced the bill to increase the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) and the Road Fund Levy on fuel oil, specifically aiming to narrow the tax gap between diesel and fuel oil that had been exploited by tax evaders. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the amendment, clarifying that it does not represent a new tax for ordinary motorists but is a reform of existing subsidy administration. The legislation transitions the current system to an "ex-post" subsidy model, where industries are required to pay the levies upfront and later apply for refunds. This mechanism is intended to ensure that only legitimate industrial users benefit from subsidies, thereby ending the practice where diesel was mislabeled as fuel oil—which carried a much lower levy of GH¢0.25 compared to diesel’s GH¢3.35 per litre—to avoid higher taxes. However, the Minority in Parliament has raised sharp objections to the levy increase, which sees the charge on fuel oil rise from GH¢0.24 to GH¢1.93 per litre. Dr. Gideon Boako, the Tano North MP and Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, warned that the hike would increase production costs for local businesses and contribute to inflationary pressures. The Minority argued that the government should prioritize stronger enforcement and tracking systems over tax increases. Dr. Boako also questioned the transparency of the administration's fiscal management, citing concerns that previous funds from the Energy Sector Recovery Levy had not been used as intended to settle energy sector debts. The passage of this bill marks a critical attempt by the Mahama administration to modernize tax policy and ensure accountability within the energy sector. While the government maintains that these changes are necessary to address evolving economic challenges and revenue theft, the industrial sector will be watching closely to see how efficiently the new refund process is implemented. Moving forward, the success of the reform will depend on the government's ability to balance revenue mobilization with the need to protect businesses from rising operational costs.

Ghana’s Parliament Adjourns: Anti-LGBTQ Bill Stalled as Minority Criticizes Mahama Administration’s Oversight and Economic Performance
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Ghana’s Parliament Adjourns: Anti-LGBTQ Bill Stalled as Minority Criticizes Mahama Administration’s Oversight and Economic Performance

On July 31, 2026, the Parliament of Ghana adjourned sine die, concluding the second meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament. While the session saw the successful passage of 12 significant pieces of legislation, it was marked by the notable omission of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2026, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ bill. Despite earlier signals from Speaker Alban Bagbin that the House might revisit the bill to address specific sentencing provisions, the motion failed to be adopted before the recess, leaving the controversial legislation in a state of flux as the House rose for the break. Aminst the adjournment, the House successfully passed a suite of laws aimed at economic reform and governance. Key among these was the Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, which guarantees cocoa farmers a 70% share of the Free on Board (FOB) export prices, and the Excise Bill, which abolishes taxes on locally produced fruit juices. Other passed legislations include the Customs Bill, the Tribunals Bill, the National Defence University Ghana Bill, and the Community Service Bill—the latter introducing alternative sentencing options to decongest the nation’s prisons. The session also featured intense debates over the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review presented by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. The closing of the session was punctuated by a scathing address from Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Kwame Afenyo-Markin. The NPP leader characterized the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, led by President John Mahama, as suffering from "executive incompetence" and "majority tyranny." Afenyo-Markin specifically demanded accountability for recent national tragedies, including a military helicopter crash and devastating floods that resulted in 34 deaths, noting that no official has yet taken responsibility for these events. He further criticized the government’s economic management, citing discrepancies in the 2026 Budget and expressing concern over perceived judicial bias and potential threats to free speech. Despite the political friction, the session's end also showcased moments of levity and digital engagement. Members of the Minority Caucus gained significant social media attention through a viral video challenge playfully teasing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, highlighting a rare moment of camaraderie amidst the legislative gridlock. As Parliament enters recess, the nation remains focused on the implementation of the newly passed economic laws and the eventual fate of the Anti-LGBTQ bill. The Minority Leader has pledged that the opposition will continue its rigorous oversight to safeguard Ghana’s democratic integrity during the parliamentary break.

No notice of appeal by Sedina was served on A-G in 2024 - Godfred Dame
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Court of Appeal Acquits Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu Sparking National Legal Debate

The Court of Appeal has sparked a massive political and legal debate in Ghana after acquitting and discharging Sedina Christine Tamakloe-Attionu, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC). In a judgment delivered on July 30, 2025, a three-member panel quashed her previous 10-year prison sentence, which had been handed down in April 2024 following a trial in absentia. Tamakloe-Attionu had been convicted on 78 counts, including stealing, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state amounting to over GH"90 million. However, the appellate court ruled that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt and criticized the trial judge for improperly shifting the burden of proof onto the accused. Legal experts and political observers are divided on the ruling's implications for accountability. Private legal practitioner Gary Nimako and former Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah Yeboah expressed concerns that the judgment might be weak in its reasoning, particularly regarding claims that the original charge sheet was defective. Conversely, Justice Abdulai and Akwatia MP Bernard Bediako defended the decision, arguing that the trial's fairness was compromised because Tamakloe-Attionu was not personally heard during the proceedings. Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni noted that while the acquittal is difficult for the public to accept, it highlights significant flaws in the state's prosecutorial strategy and evidence handling, including inconsistencies regarding funds allegedly returned to MASLOC. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has vehemently condemned the acquittal, labeling it a "travesty of justice" and alleging political interference by the current administration under President John Mahama. Former Attorney-General Godfred Dame likened the situation to the Woyome scandal, claiming that his office was never served with a notice of appeal before he left office and accusing the current government of creating an "unequal" justice system. In response, the NPP has signaled plans for a national demonstration on August 6, 2026, to protest what they describe as a threat to the rule of law. Meanwhile, NDC officials have hailed the ruling as a vindication of a "political prisoner" who they believe was targeted by the previous administration. As the legal battle moves forward, the Attorney-General's office has filed a notice of appeal to the Supreme Court and sought a stay of execution. However, the Court of Appeal recently adjourned the motion for a stay of execution indefinitely after the panel, led by Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko-Essah, failed to reach a consensus. While the criminal conviction has been set aside, legal analysts like Oliver Barker-Vormawor suggest the state could still pursue civil claims to recover the allegedly misappropriated GH"90 million. The case remains a focal point for public discourse on the independence of the judiciary and the effectiveness of Ghana's anti-corruption frameworks.