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.

Tourism Minister visits Eastern Region attractions, calls for improved maintenance
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Afenyo-Markin Alleges Intimidation of NPP Lawmakers as Government Introduces Major Local Governance Reforms

The political landscape in Ghana has been marked by heightened tensions and significant administrative shifts this week, as Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin alleged a growing climate of fear within Parliament. Afenyo-Markin claimed that New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawmakers face consistent threats and intimidation when criticizing the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), leading to a hesitation among some members to voice concerns on critical issues. Amidst these allegations, the parliamentary atmosphere saw a moment of reconciliation when the Member of Parliament for Walewale, Dr. Kabiru Tiah Mahama, issued a public apology to Speaker Alban Bagbin, retracting previous comments in which he had described the Speaker's decision to recall the house as "rude." In the executive branch, the Minister for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, announced a series of reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency within Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Minister Ayariga revealed plans to remove funding incentives for statutory meetings under the District Performance Assessment Tool (DPAT), arguing that such meetings are a legal obligation rather than an activity warranting extra financial rewards. Additionally, the Ministry has mandated that MMDAs broadcast their local assembly meetings live on FM stations to ensure community accessibility and accountability. This push for transparency extends to land administration, as the government recently inaugurated the Sempe Customary Land Secretariat in Accra to curb land disputes and multiple sales. On the legal and accountability front, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has been granted an additional four weeks by the Accra High Court to serve court summons to former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and his ex-Chief of Cabinet, Ernest Darko Akore, who are currently in the United States. The case involves 28 counts of corruption related to revenue arrangements that allegedly resulted in over GH"1.4 billion in losses to the state. This development coincides with sharp criticism from Senyo Hosi of the One Ghana Movement, who stated that Ghana "missed the boat" in its fight against illegal mining (galamsey) during the previous administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo due to political considerations surrounding the 2020 elections. Regional concerns also took center stage as Dr. Abednego Bandim, MP for Bunkpurugu, called on the National Communications Authority to address frequent network disruptions in Northern Ghana, citing their detrimental impact on healthcare and education. Simultaneously, the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) and the National Peace Council launched a workshop in Wa to bridge the trust gap between civilians and security agencies amidst rising extremist threats from neighboring countries. As the government continues to implement its agenda, including new sanitation mandates from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and tourism maintenance initiatives in the Eastern Region, the focus remains on balancing administrative reform with political stability and public accountability.

A photograph shows a smiling woman wearing red-framed glasses, identified as a prominent Moroccan politician, surrounded by supporters during a nighttime celebration. To her right, a hand is raised in a victory sign while another person captures the scene on a smartphone.
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Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri Makes History as Morocco's First Female Prime Minister Amid Global Shifts in Housing and Tech Policy

In a landmark political development for the Arab world, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country’s first female Prime Minister. The 50-year-old leader of the centre-right Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) secured the position after her party won 97 out of 395 seats in the recent parliamentary elections. A former Mayor of Marrakesh and experienced minister, El Mansouri now faces the immediate challenge of negotiating a coalition government, as her party fell short of an absolute majority. Her administration is expected to focus on pressing economic challenges and social reforms, while also overseeing preparations for Morocco’s role as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Despite her historic rise, observers note her cautious approach toward public debates on women’s rights in a traditionally male-dominated political landscape. While Morocco reshapes its leadership, Spain is undergoing a significant shift in domestic policy following nationwide protests sparked by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid. Spain’s coalition government has proposed a sweeping ban on evictions until 2030 and a mandatory rollover of rental contracts until 2028. Health Minister M3nica Garc1a emphasized that these measures, which also include stricter regulations on short-term holiday rentals, are intended to protect over five million vulnerable citizens. However, the proposal faces a difficult path through Congress, where the government lacks a clear majority and opposition parties have raised concerns about the impact on small-scale landlords. On the international security front, maritime and technological boundaries are being redrawn. In Ghana, Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Danish Maritime Security Programme, urging regional partners to sustain gains made in the Gulf of Guinea. While piracy has significantly declined over the past decade thanks to the training of over 1,000 security personnel, Linulf warned that overfishing, smuggling, and marine pollution remain critical threats that require tailored, local solutions. His call for vigilance comes as Ghana prepares for new port investments that will necessitate enhanced security infrastructure to protect economic interests. Simultaneously, the global race for technological supremacy has seen the United States take a hardline stance against collaborative innovation. Citing national security risks, the U.S. administration has officially ruled out joint artificial intelligence ventures with China. President Trump framed the decision as essential for protecting American technological advantages, dismissing public anxiety over AI safety as politically motivated. While the administration plans to appoint an oversight official and potentially rename federal AI initiatives to “Super Intelligence,” the move signals an era of increased tech-protectionism. Together, these developments across Morocco, Spain, and the U.S. reflect a global political climate increasingly defined by social protections, national security, and historic leadership transitions.

A woman in a vibrant yellow and black patterned dress, likely a Ghanaian government official, addresses the media while surrounded by numerous microphones. She is accompanied by a woman in a black shirt that reads 'WOMEN'S VOICES MATTER', with security personnel and journalists visible in the background.
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Gender Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey Advances National Agenda on Women’s Rights and Early Childhood Development

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), led by Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has intensified its efforts to strengthen Ghana’s social framework through a series of legislative reforms and emergency interventions. Most recently, in September 2026, the Ministry inaugurated the National Inter-Sectoral Early Childhood Care and Development Committee (NIEC). This committee is tasked with driving the implementation of the 2025 Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Policy, focusing on the holistic development of children from conception to age eight. Dr. Lartey emphasized that investing in early childhood is the foundation for national progress, calling for the establishment of regional committees to ensure the policy reaches the most vulnerable citizens. These structural advancements follow the Ministry’s proactive response to advocacy from the Women’s Voices Matter Movement. In a series of engagements, the movement, led by Madam Akosua Manu, presented a petition demanding the protection of women's constitutional rights, greater freedom of expression, and the immediate implementation of the Affirmative Action Act. Dr. Lartey acknowledged the petition as a vital democratic exercise and confirmed that the necessary committees to oversee the Act’s implementation have been established. A major pillar of this response includes the development of a Women’s Development Bank, a project currently being prioritized in coordination with the Office of the Vice President to provide dedicated financial support to Ghanaian women. Beyond policy and advocacy, the Ministry has demonstrated a commitment to immediate social protection during domestic crises. Following severe flooding in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region, Dr. Lartey announced an emergency Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) package to assist displaced households. This emergency intervention was designed to complement existing relief efforts, providing a financial safety net for residents as they work to rebuild their homes and livelihoods in the wake of the disaster. The move highlights the Ministry's dual focus on long-term systemic reform and rapid-response humanitarian aid. Looking forward, the Ministry aims to harmonize service delivery gaps across various sectors to ensure that no marginalized group is left behind. By bridging the gap between legislative promises—such as the Affirmative Action Act—and practical implementation through committees like the NIEC, the government is signaling a shift toward measurable results in social welfare. Dr. Lartey has urged all stakeholders to remain engaged in the dialogue, stressing that the success of these initiatives depends on continued collaboration between the government, civil society, and development partners to foster a more equitable Ghanaian society.

Philippines to open Embassy in Ghana for the first time
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Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Champions Resource Sovereignty and Strategic Diplomatic Partnerships

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has articulated a transformative agenda for the nation’s economic and diplomatic future, anchored by a pledge to end the export of all raw materials by 2030. Speaking during high-level sessions at the United Nations General Assembly and various international forums, the Minister emphasized that Ghana is shifting toward "resource sovereignty." This strategy prioritizes adding value to natural resources such as cocoa, gold, and bauxite before they leave the country, ensuring that the wealth generated from these commodities remains within the national economy to benefit the Ghanaian people directly. To support this industrial shift, Minister Ablakwa called for a comprehensive renegotiation of international resource agreements and the development of homegrown solutions. He highlighted the importance of leveraging advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to build internal capacity for wealth creation. This move away from raw material dependency is part of a broader vision to foster resilience and self-sufficiency, challenging a historical paradigm where African nations have often received minimal returns for their extracted wealth. The Minister noted that the government is already adopting a fresh approach to negotiations to secure greater national benefits from future extraction projects. Parallel to these economic goals, the Minister announced significant advancements in Ghana’s bilateral relations, most notably the upcoming establishment of the first-ever Philippines embassy in Accra. This development followed meetings with the Philippines’ Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, where both nations agreed to launch business forums and a joint chamber of commerce to enhance trade and investment. Furthermore, Ghana secured a landmark labor agreement with Saint Kitts and Nevis. This deal ensures that Ghanaian nurses working in the Caribbean nation will receive enhanced salaries, comprehensive health insurance, rent allowances, and end-of-service benefits, reflecting the administration’s commitment to protecting the interests of Ghanaian professionals abroad. On the global stage, Ghana has taken a firm stance on international justice and institutional reform. Minister Ablakwa formally opposed attempts to abolish the International Criminal Court (ICC), arguing instead for the institution to be strengthened to ensure accountability for crimes against humanity. During commemorations of the Durban Declaration, he reiterated Ghana's demand for reparatory justice to address historical inequalities and called for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council. These diplomatic efforts signal a proactive foreign policy under President John Mahama’s administration, positioning Ghana as both a regional industrial leader and a vocal advocate for global equity.

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie Defends Judicial Humanity Amid NPP Criticism and Partisanship Allegations
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Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie Defends Judicial Humanity Amid NPP Criticism and Partisanship Allegations

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has strongly defended his right to maintain social connections and personal humanity, dismissing recent criticisms of his public conduct as "pure mischief." Speaking at the 45th Annual Conference of the Judges and Magistrates Association, the Chief Justice addressed a wave of backlash following his recent remarks comparing the performance of state institutions under different political administrations. While his critics, particularly within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have accused him of political bias, Baffoe-Bonnie maintained that judicial office should not require the total isolation of a person from their community and social obligations. The controversy stems from comments made by the Chief Justice regarding the efficacy of state bodies under the current President John Mahama's administration versus previous administrations. The NPP has responded sharply, with Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed arguing that judges must be prepared to sacrifice certain personal freedoms to uphold the dignity and independence of their office. Drawing parallels to the military, the NPP suggested that judicial officers must exercise a higher standard of professional restraint in their public utterances and social engagements to avoid the appearance of partisanship. The party has gone as far as calling for the Chief Justice to either retract his statements or resign. Further complicating the political landscape, former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has leveled serious allegations against the Chief Justice, describing him as a "surrogate" for President John Dramani Mahama. In an opinion piece, Amidu alleged that Baffoe-Bonnie’s appointment and conduct are part of a broader strategy by the Mahama administration to exert control over the judiciary. These accusations come at a time when the Chief Justice is already under fire for his role as Chair of the Council for Legal Education and his attendance at various social functions, which he insists are part of his responsibilities and personal rights. Despite the mounting pressure, Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie remains steadfast in his position that judicial officers are humans first and must balance their professional decorum with their personal lives. He emphasized that the "cacophony of noises" surrounding his recent engagements would not deter him from fulfilling his social duties. This ongoing debate highlights the delicate tension in Ghana’s democracy between the independence of the judiciary and the political scrutiny of its leadership, as the nation continues to monitor the relationship between the bench and the executive branch.

Kojo Addo joins NDC vice chairmanship race in Jaman South
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NDC Clears Hundreds of Aspirants for Constituency Elections as Leadership Urges Issue-Based Campaigns and Unity

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is advancing its internal restructuring with constituency-level elections scheduled for late October 2026. Across several regions, vetting committees have cleared hundreds of candidates to contest various executive positions. In Ketu South, 73 aspirants were approved out of 74 nominations, with Mr. Reginald Edem Zigah emerging as the sole candidate for Secretary following the disqualification of the incumbent. Similar vetting processes in Krachi East and the Atebubu/Amantin Constituency cleared 64 and 46 candidates respectively. These internal polls, largely set for October 24 and 25, are seen as a critical step in strengthening the party's grassroots organization under the current administration of President John Mahama. While the vetting process has been smooth in many areas, some constituencies are facing internal friction. In the Adansi Fomena Constituency, party supporters staged protests at the local office following the alleged disqualification of chairmanship aspirant Atipile Mohammed, warning that such a move could undermine the party's momentum. In Gomoa West, legal practitioner Godlove Adjei Tenkorang has formally urged the party to reject the potential candidacy of broadcast journalist Captain Smart for the parliamentary primary. Tenkorang cited concerns regarding Smart's past derogatory comments about voters and disputes over his actual membership status within the party, arguing that his inclusion could negatively influence younger journalists and party standards. Despite these localized disputes, the party is seeing a notable influx of new talent and professionals. In the Jaman South Constituency, Lawrence Adonis Addo Cheremeh, popularly known as Kojo Addo, has announced his bid for the Vice Chairmanship. A veteran journalist with over two decades of experience, Addo aims to leverage his background in communication to enhance the party’s organizational structures. Meanwhile, Deputy National Youth Organiser Osman Ayariga highlighted a significant rise in youth participation, noting that the high number of young individuals seeking leadership roles reflects the party’s growing appeal among the younger demographic in Ghana. National and local leaders have emphasized the need for decorum and unity as the election dates approach. Bright Solomon Kumordzie, Ghana’s Deputy High Commissioner to Togo and outgoing constituency chairman, has advised all aspirants to focus their campaign messages on constructive ideas and party development rather than personal attacks or hate speech. Party officials, including Atebubu/Amantin Elections Director Abdul Rashid Alimiyao, have assured members that the polls will be conducted in a credible and unbiased manner. This period of internal competition is viewed by leadership as essential preparation for the party’s broader national objectives leading toward the 2028 general elections.

Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament
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Speaker Bagbin Champions Civility in National Discourse and Advocates for Pragmatic Legal Reforms

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has thrown his weight behind President John Mahama's initiative to convene a national dialogue on hate speech and abusive online content. Emphasizing the need to protect Ghana’s democratic culture, Speaker Bagbin called on political party leaders to stop rewarding individuals who use "bitter tongues" and inflammatory rhetoric. During an emergency session of Parliament and subsequent public forums, Bagbin warned that the normalization of insults, particularly on social media, threatens to undermine the dignity of national institutions and the country's hard-won democratic values. He urged elected representatives to model the standards they expect from the public, suggesting that Parliament must lead the effort to restore civility to national discourse. The proposed national dialogue aims to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders to develop a roadmap for managing digital content while safeguarding the fundamental right to freedom of expression. This call for reform has drawn attention from across the cultural landscape, including the creative arts. Dancehall artiste Shatta Wale addressed an open letter to President Mahama, advocating for a balanced approach to social media regulation. Shatta Wale suggested that while laws should protect citizens from online abuse and misinformation, they must not reintroduce criminal libel or silence legitimate dissent. He emphasized the importance of account verification and due process, expressing a willingness to participate in the national conversation to ensure accountability without sacrificing digital freedom. Beyond the sphere of public discourse, Speaker Bagbin has also turned his attention to structural legal reforms, officially launching the Ghana Law Society (GLS) during its inaugural Annual Bar Conference in Accra. Addressing legal professionals and government officials, including Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah and Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, Bagbin argued that legal reform must go beyond the mere addition of statutes. He insisted that reforms must be meaningful, implementable, and focused on enhancing justice for ordinary citizens and the underprivileged. Bagbin criticized the notion that passing more laws equates to more justice, urging lawyers to instead prioritize the practical enforcement and accessibility of constitutional rights. Speaker Bagbin’s dual focus on behavioral civility and legislative effectiveness underscores a broader vision for Ghanaian governance. By urging Parliament to reflect on its own conduct and calling for lawyers to play an active role in constitutional development, the Speaker is positioning the legislature as a central pillar in the effort to refine the nation's democratic character. GLS President Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor supported this vision by highlighting the need to decentralize legal services to ensure accessibility across all regions of Ghana. These initiatives represent a concerted effort by parliamentary leadership and the executive to balance the exigencies of modern digital communication with the timeless necessity of a robust, accessible, and respectful justice system.

President John Dramani Mahama is seen delivering a speech from a wooden podium. He is dressed in a traditional brown and white striped northern smock, known as a fugu, against a background of detailed wood carvings.
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President Mahama Unveils Agbogbloshie Industrialization Plan and Asserts National Sovereignty in Global Health Partnerships

President John Dramani Mahama has outlined a transformative vision for Ghana’s industrial and diplomatic future, anchored by the redevelopment of the former Agbogbloshie landfill into a textile manufacturing hub and a firm stance on international health cooperation. Speaking as part of his ‘Accra Reset’ agenda, the President announced that the 16-acre Agbogbloshie site will be cleared of waste within 90 days to make way for one of three new textile factories slated for the 2027 Budget. This initiative is designed not only to boost local production but also to retrain and provide sustainable employment for thousands of Kayayei (female porters) currently operating in the area, shifting the site from a symbol of waste to a center of productivity. On the diplomatic front, President Mahama has taken a decisive stand against a proposed U.S. health compact, which he characterized as humiliating for its requirements regarding the sharing of Ghana’s medical records and pathogen profiles. This position has drawn public praise from high-profile figures such as Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie, who emphasized that the nation deserves greater respect from Western partners. Parallel to this, the U.S. Embassy in Ghana clarified that while USAID is transitioning, health aid is not being cut abruptly. Charg d’Affaires Rolf Olson noted that $82 million is allocated for 2025 and $53 million for 2026, as part of a long-planned shift toward Ghanaian self-sufficiency in health management. President Mahama also brought his message of African reform and reduced aid dependency to the global stage during the 81st United Nations General Assembly. In an address praised by Minister of State for Special Initiatives Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo as "bold and decisive," the President advocated for global governance reforms and development financing that prioritizes local capacity. This international mission included a symbolic closing-bell ceremony at NASDAQ in New York, after which the President chose to walk through the city streets with his team, signaling a grounded approach to his diplomatic engagements. Domestically, the administration is moving to institutionalize these reforms through a broader restructure. Dr. Pelpuo has been tasked with identifying and assessing policy initiatives that align with the ‘Reset Agenda’ to ensure practical benefits for the public. However, the President's approach has met with criticism from political opponents. Janet Asana Nabla, the 2024 presidential candidate of the People’s National Party (PNP), labeled the President's public persona as "pretentious," arguing that his administration's actions do not match his compassionate rhetoric. Despite this, the government remains focused on its 2027 budgetary goals and the immediate cleanup of industrial sites like Agbogbloshie.

Dr Pamela Graham - Auditor-General
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Auditor-General Graham Vows Stricter Financial Oversight as CSOs and Religious Leaders Call for Deep Constitutional Reforms

Ghana is entering a critical phase of institutional self-correction as the Auditor-General, civil society organizations (CSOs), and religious leaders converge on a shared agenda for transparency and accountability. Auditor-General Dr. Pamela Graham has officially launched the 2026 financial year audit, pledging to aggressively exercise her constitutional powers of disallowance and surcharge to recover public funds. Simultaneously, a coalition of advocates including the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) is demanding a permanent legal framework to protect ongoing constitutional reforms from partisan interference, ensuring that the evolution of Ghana’s governance remains a national priority regardless of which administration is in power. At the heart of the accountability drive is the introduction of an internal online tracker for audit recommendations, set to launch in October 2026. Dr. Graham highlighted that approximately GH"280.5 million in surcharges remains unpaid, contributing to a staggering GH"100 billion lost through financial irregularities over the last six years. To combat this, experts like Professor Francis Dodoo and Dr. David Ofosu-Dorte are urging the Audit Service to adopt modernized, AI-driven systems and harsher punitive measures to deter future misappropriation. This technological shift is intended to transform audit reports from retrospective statements into active tools for corrective action and the restoration of public trust. Parallel to financial oversight, the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) and CDD-Ghana are advocating for structural limits on executive power. The CCG has specifically called for a reduction in presidential appointing powers to ensure the independence of bodies like the Electoral Commission and the Auditor-General. Both religious and civic groups have voiced strong opposition to proposals extending presidential terms from four to five years, arguing that the current duration is sufficient for effective governance. To prevent the failures of past review attempts, CDD-Ghana’s Professor Henry Kwesi Prempeh is calling for a "Constitutional Reform Implementation and Roadmap Act," which would mandate that future governments continue unfinished reforms instead of letting them lapse. The push for integrity further extends to the judiciary and public sector management. Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni and traditional leaders such as Togbe Afede XIV have urged the judiciary to expedite corruption trials, warning that legal loopholes must not be used to stall justice for those accused of public theft. In the realm of public service, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo has proposed the creation of an independent commission to oversee public sector remuneration. This body would function similarly to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission, establishing a unified and transparent salary framework to address pay disparities and improve conditions for workers under the Single Spine Salary Structure.

Make presidential candidate leader of the party, not national chairman — NPP members
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John Boadu and Justin Kodua Lead Polls as NPP Prepares for National Executive Elections in Kumasi

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is finalizing preparations for its National Delegates Conference scheduled for October 3, 2026, at the Kumasi Sports Stadium. The event, which serves as a critical juncture for the party ahead of the 2028 general elections, will be conducted in two phases: a session for proposed constitutional amendments at 9:00 a.m., followed by the election of national officers at 12:00 p.m. To ensure a smooth process, the National Officers Elections Committee (NOEC) has established 31 polling stations and mandated that all delegates present valid identification, such as the Ghana Card, Voter ID, or NPP party card, for verification by the Electoral Commission. Latest polling data suggests a strong preference for experienced leadership among the delegates. Surveys conducted by Global InfoAnalytics and Professor Smart Sarpong of Kumasi Technical University indicate that former General Secretary John Boadu is the frontrunner for the National Chairman position, holding between 46.5% and 48% support, a significant lead over former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko. In the race for General Secretary, incumbent Justin Kodua Frimpong maintains a commanding lead with up to 71% support. Other notable contenders include Titus Glover, who leads the National Organiser race with 56%, and Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B), who is vying for the National Vice-Chairperson role while emphasizing his 26 years of service to the party. Internal party dynamics and constitutional reforms are also taking center stage. Members in the Ashanti Region are strongly advocating for an amendment to make the party's Presidential Candidate the official party leader rather than the National Chairman, arguing this will provide clearer command and unity for the 2028 campaign. This push for structural change aligns with efforts by figures like Paul Afoko, who has initiated outreach to reconcile opposing factions under a "Reunite, Rebuild, and Recapture" agenda. Proponents of these changes believe that fostering internal cohesion is essential for the party's effectiveness in the upcoming electoral cycle. Despite the momentum, the lead-up to the conference has faced several challenges and controversies. The NOEC has had to issue assurances of a free and fair process following concerns raised by Boakye Agyarko’s campaign regarding the TESCON delegates list. Additionally, the party is navigating localized friction, including a protest in the Akyem Swedru constituency where members invoked traditional rituals to oppose executive appointments. The party also remains mindful of personal developments within its ranks, such as the incarceration of former Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) and the recent passing of his elder sister, Regina Wiafe Antwi. As the NPP converges on Kumasi, the focus remains on institutional stability and electoral readiness. The outcome of these elections will not only determine the party's leadership for the next four years but also set the tone for its strategy against the current administration of President John Mahama. With the NOEC and the Electoral Commission overseeing the transition, the NPP aims to emerge from the conference as a unified force, ready to engage the grassroots and prepare for the national stage in 2028.

A close-up photograph of a man, likely a Ghanaian politician, sitting in an official setting with a pensive expression. He is wearing a navy pinstriped suit, a light blue shirt, and a grey tie, with a microphone visible in the foreground.
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High Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah Over Alleged Financial Crimes

The Accra High Court has issued a formal warrant for the arrest of Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, following an application by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The warrant, granted on September 30, 2026, authorizes EOCO to arrest the legislator and search for documents related to an investigation into alleged unauthorized financial transactions at SIC Life Savings & Loans Company Limited. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai confirmed the development, noting that the investigation involves serious charges, including the dissipation of public funds, financial loss to the state, and money laundering. The court specifically directed that the arrest be executed through the Speaker of Parliament, adhering to the legal protocols governing the detention of sitting lawmakers. The judicial order follows a period of escalating tension between the MP and law enforcement. EOCO officials claimed they were forced to seek a court-backed warrant after Mr. Baffour Awuah repeatedly failed to honor invitations for questioning that began in February 2026. The situation reached a boiling point on September 23, 2026, when an attempted arrest of the MP outside the Accra High Court resulted in a public confrontation. While Mr. Baffour Awuah characterized the encounter as an attempted "state-sponsored kidnapping," Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu defended the EOCO officer involved, describing her approach as professional and legitimate. Ofosu clarified that the officer is a veteran law enforcement professional with 17 years of service, not a political operative as some had suggested. Mr. Baffour Awuah has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the investigation is a politically motivated attempt to undermine his credibility. He contends that the inquiry stems from his former law firm's professional engagement with SIC Life Savings and Loans, specifically regarding the recovery of an investment that grew from GH"3.5 million to GH"14 million including interest. The MP maintains that his firm acted within the law and that he has already communicated relevant details to the Clerk of Parliament. Furthermore, he argued that the allegations are being weaponized against him due to his legal support for individuals involved in other sensitive cases, such as the "Ghana Jollof" hate speech trial. The case has ignited a broader debate regarding parliamentary immunity and the procedures for investigating Members of Parliament. Majority Leader James Agalga criticized EOCO’s initial attempted arrest as "unprofessional," stressing that law enforcement must respect the constitutional protections afforded to MPs. Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu echoed these concerns, stating that while no one is above the law, Section 20 of Act 300 necessitates involving the Speaker to ensure that investigations do not interfere with parliamentary duties or lead to improper detention. As EOCO prepares to execute the warrant and seize relevant documents, the case remains a focal point of legal and political scrutiny in Ghana.

Hon. Habib Iddrisu, Member of Parliament for Tolon, is seen seated in the Parliament of Ghana chamber. He is wearing a red patterned shirt and sitting behind his official nameplate, surrounded by the nameplates of other Members of Parliament.
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Speaker Alban Bagbin Dismisses Parliamentary Inquiry into Major Narcotics Seizures Citing Judicial Overlap

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has dismissed a Private Member’s motion from the Minority Caucus calling for a bipartisan inquiry into recent high-profile narcotics seizures linked to Ghana. During an emergency sitting, the Speaker ruled the motion inadmissible, citing the sub judice rule. He argued that a parliamentary probe would significantly overlap with ongoing investigations and court proceedings involving 21 accused persons across four pending cases. Bagbin emphasized that while Parliament maintains its constitutional oversight responsibilities, it must avoid actions that could prejudice judicial processes or interfere with matters currently before the courts. The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, criticized the ruling, arguing that it undermines Parliament’s constitutional mandate to hold public institutions accountable. They contended that the proposed inquiry was not intended to determine criminal liability for individuals already in court, but rather to evaluate the effectiveness of state agencies in preventing Ghana from becoming a major drug transit hub. The Minority expressed surprise at the dismissal, noting that the motion mirrored the very concerns that triggered the recall of Parliament, including the seizure of 3.9 tonnes of cocaine in France and 320 kilograms of methamphetamine elsewhere. The push for an inquiry highlighted deep-seated institutional deficiencies within the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC). Member of Parliament for Effia, Isaac Boamah-Nyarko, recently revealed that NACOC is severely underfunded and lacks critical logistics, including functional scanners and drug-testing laboratories. This forced reliance on third-party facilities and a dilapidated vehicle fleet has raised alarms about the state's capacity to combat organized crime. Further compounding these concerns is the latest Global Organised Crime Index report, which suggests that a decline in visible cocaine trafficking may be due to "political protection" offered to illicit markets rather than a genuine reduction in trade activity. Supporting the Speaker's decision, Minister of State Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo urged for patience, suggesting that security agencies should be allowed to complete their investigations before legislative intervention. He acknowledged that Ghana's international reputation is at stake and stressed the urgency of closing gaps that facilitate trafficking. While the bipartisan committee will not proceed in its proposed form, the debate has intensified scrutiny on the Mahama administration's strategy for drug enforcement and the legal boundaries of parliamentary oversight during active criminal prosecutions.