Ghana Politics: NDC and NPP Mourn Leaders as Calls for Constitutional Reform Grow under President Mahama

The Ghanaian political landscape is currently marked by a period of mourning and reflection following the deaths of prominent figures from both major political parties. Abubakar Sedik, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ahafo Ano South West and a 2024 parliamentary candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), passed away on September 20, 2026, shortly after attending official meetings. His death is regarded as a significant loss for the NDC, with Ashanti Regional Chairman Augustus Nana Akwasi noting that Sedik was a rising star tipped for the 2028 elections. Concurrently, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is mourning the loss of Sophia Horner-Sam, a former National Vice Chairperson and distinguished diplomat who served as Ghana’s Ambassador to the Netherlands. Amidst these bereavements, NDC Deputy Western Regional Youth Organizer Derrick Nana Asare has publicly commended President John Mahama for the economic progress recorded since his inauguration in January 2025, citing improved GDP growth and declining inflation.

Institutional and structural reforms remain a central theme in national discourse. The Citizens’ Platform on Constitutional Reform (CPCR), led by Prof. Akosua Keseboa Darkwah, has proposed the creation of an independent Political Parties Regulatory Commission to oversee campaigns and ensure inclusive internal party voting. This drive for transparency is echoed by Dr. Hassan Ayariga, founder of the All People’s Congress (APC), who recently cautioned the government against Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) that might compromise Ghana’s strategic national assets. Furthermore, the Minority in Parliament is urging the government to sustain the supply of local crude oil from the Jubilee field to the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), arguing that domestic resource prioritization is essential for energy security given the volatile geopolitical situation in the Middle East.

Local governance and land disputes have also sparked significant controversy in the Greater Accra Region. Kingmaker Nii Adjei Koofeh IV has formally denied allegations of personal involvement in the demolition of structures at the Laboma Beach Resort. He asserted that the resort management had repeatedly ignored directives from regional ministers to halt construction within the Kpeshie Lagoon buffer zone. Similarly, the Horse Racing Association of Ghana has protested the demolition of the Accra Race Course, which occurred in August. The association claims the move has destroyed the livelihoods of jockeys and trainers, and they are calling for immediate government intervention to restore access to the facility.

On the international stage, Ghanaian leaders are monitoring developments at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where US President Donald Trump has made several provocative declarations. Trump urged member states to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), labeling it a "rogue institution," and proposed renaming Artificial Intelligence to "Super Intelligence" in official US government documents. These global discussions are taking place against a backdrop of escalating tensions in Yemen and the Middle East, which threaten critical maritime trade routes like the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Meanwhile, in nearby Madagascar, activists report that the military-backed government led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina is struggling to deliver basic reforms one year after the ousting of former President Andry Rajoelina.

Domestic political maneuvering for the 2028 election cycle is already beginning, as evidenced by Dr. Mohammed Mohammed Ibrahim declaring his intention to contest the NPP parliamentary primary for Tamale South. The social impact of political affiliation also remains a topic of public debate, with musician MzBel recently detailing the significant business losses she incurred due to her open support for the NDC. Additionally, the entertainment community is closely following the legal troubles of UK-based musician Reggie Zippy, who faces a potential five-year prison sentence in a criminal case. As President Mahama continues his first year in office, these varied domestic and international threads illustrate the complex environment in which the current administration must navigate its reform and development agenda.