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.

Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is seen delivering a speech from a podium. He is dressed in a white shirt with an NDC emblem, positioned in front of a red political backdrop featuring campaign text and the name 'John'.
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NDC mandates removal of oversized campaign banners within five days

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a five-day ultimatum to all party members and aspirants to remove campaign posters and banners that exceed newly established size and placement regulations. This directive, issued by the party’s Functional Executive Committee (FEC), is part of a broader effort to manage the internal reorganization process and maintain discipline within the governing party's ranks. The FEC has warned that non-compliance with these rules will result in disciplinary measures. Under the new guidelines, any campaign material must not exceed a maximum dimension of five feet in width and eight feet in height. Furthermore, the FEC has restricted the display of these materials to specific locations, including constituency and regional offices as well as designated election grounds. The party leadership emphasized that these measures are necessary to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants and to prevent the visual clutter often associated with internal electoral processes. The NDC's leadership highlighted that the move is intended to reflect the party's current status as the ruling administration, prioritizing modesty and restraint. By standardizing campaign materials, the party aims to reduce the financial burden on aspirants while promoting an atmosphere of order and fairness. This approach is seen as a way to focus the reorganization efforts on policy and member engagement rather than on which candidate can afford the largest or most numerous displays. As the NDC continues its internal reorganization, the FEC has underscored that strict adherence to these rules is mandatory to uphold the party’s integrity. This directive serves as a clear signal that the party leadership intends to exercise firm control over internal political activities and maintain public decorum during its internal elections. The five-day grace period is currently in effect, and monitoring is expected at the regional and constituency levels to ensure compliance.

President John Mahama to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs for PWDs
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President John Mahama to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs for PWDs

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a new initiative to import rechargeable electric wheelchairs to improve the mobility and independence of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Speaking during a Citizens' Engagement event in Goaso, the President detailed plans for a pilot project that seeks to modernize support for the disability community through technology and increased financial backing. This initiative is intended to move beyond traditional manual aids to provide more efficient mobility solutions for the physically challenged. The proposed distribution and management of the electric wheelchairs will be overseen by the National Council on Disability to ensure that those with the greatest need are prioritized. In addition to the equipment, the President revealed a significant policy shift regarding the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). The allocation specifically reserved for persons with disabilities is set to increase from the current 3% to 5%, providing local authorities with more resources to support PWDs at the community level. Furthering his administration's commitment to the sector, President Mahama indicated that the government intends to amend the Persons With Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715). This legislative review aims to align the law with contemporary needs and further improve the living conditions of PWDs across Ghana. These efforts are part of a broader social intervention strategy that includes the rollout of a Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which the President discussed as a means to remove financial barriers to basic medical services. To address the high cost of specialized medical care, the President also highlighted the establishment of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. This fund is designed to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare for vulnerable populations, including those with chronic conditions or disabilities. By combining technological aids, increased funding, and legislative reform, the administration aims to create a more inclusive environment and provide sustainable support for the disability community.

Kpebu Warns Newly Called Ministers and MPs to Put Legal Ethics Above Party Loyalty
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Martin Kpebu urges lawyer-politicians to prioritize ethics over party loyalty

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament and Ministers recently called to the bar, urging them to place professional legal ethics above political affiliations. His remarks follow the 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony in Accra, where 1,568 new lawyers were inducted into the profession. Among the notable public officials joining the legal fraternity are Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram Sam Nartey George and Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Kpebu emphasized that the General Legal Council (GLC) maintains strict oversight of all practitioners, regardless of their political status. He cautioned that failure to adhere to professional standards could result in severe disciplinary actions, including the potential suspension or withdrawal of practicing licenses. According to Kpebu, the dual role of a legislator and a lawyer requires a clear boundary where legal integrity is never compromised by partisan interests or party loyalty. To illustrate the risks of professional misconduct, Kpebu referenced the case of former Attorney-General Godfred Dame as a cautionary example of how political roles can intersect contentiously with legal responsibilities. This advice aligns with sentiments shared by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie during the induction ceremony, where he encouraged the new cohort to view their admission to the bar as a public trust. The Chief Justice urged the lawyers to uphold integrity as a fundamental requirement of their new calling. As these new lawyers begin balancing their legal careers with their legislative duties, the legal community remains focused on how they will navigate potential conflicts of interest. Kpebu’s intervention highlights a recurring concern regarding the professional conduct of public officials with legal qualifications. The warning serves as a reminder that their primary allegiance in any legal proceeding must remain with the law and the fair administration of justice.

Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu urges end to partisan staff replacements
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Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu urges end to partisan staff replacements

The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Reverend Professor Johnson Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu, has called on the government to halt the practice of replacing experienced public sector personnel based on political transitions. Speaking at a press event, the Presiding Bishop emphasized that the nation must prioritize institutional continuity and professional inclusion to achieve sustainable national growth. He argued that the recurring cycle of removing qualified individuals whenever a new administration takes office undermines the country's long-term development potential. Addressing the media following the induction of Brother Alfred Sakyi as the 10th Lay President of the Methodist Church, Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu criticized the erosion of institutional memory caused by frequent managerial turnovers. He noted that when government transitions trigger the mass replacement of skilled officials with new political appointees, the expertise and historical knowledge required to run state institutions effectively are often lost. This practice, he suggested, prevents the public sector from building on previous successes and creates a fragmented, inconsistent approach to national governance. The Presiding Bishop urged political leaders to create an environment where all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations, are encouraged to contribute their skills to national progress. He stressed that sustainable development requires the collective efforts of the best available talent across the country. By recognizing individuals based on their professional capabilities rather than their partisan loyalties, Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu believes the government can better harness the expertise needed to address Ghana's socioeconomic challenges and ensure that public services remain efficient across different administrations. The induction ceremony also marked the formal beginning of Brother Alfred Sakyi’s tenure as Lay President of the church. In his remarks, Sakyi echoed the call for collective action and focused on internal church transformation alongside broader social impact. He pledged to promote teamwork within the church leadership and announced plans to support youth entrepreneurship through targeted programs. These initiatives aim to empower young people and foster spiritual growth, aligning with the church's broader mission of contributing to the holistic development of the Ghanaian people.

Koldo Casla warns Ghana against forced evictions without consultation
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Koldo Casla warns Ghana against forced evictions without consultation

UN Special Rapporteur on the right to housing, Koldo Casla, has issued a formal caution to the Ghanaian government regarding the practice of forced evictions. He stated that carrying out such actions without prior consultation or legal safeguards violates the fundamental rights of citizens and contravenes international human rights standards. This warning comes in the wake of recent high-profile demolitions in parts of Accra that have displaced numerous residents and disrupted local commercial activities, leaving many families homeless. During his assessment, Casla emphasized that the government must move away from language and policies that criminalize homeless individuals or those living in informal settlements. He noted that the recent demolitions did not only destroy homes but also severely impacted the livelihoods of small business owners who depend on those locations for their daily trade. According to the Special Rapporteur, the lack of a structured dialogue between the state and affected communities exacerbates the vulnerability of impoverished urban populations and creates unnecessary social friction. The UN representative stressed that public participation is a non-negotiable component of effective housing development and urban planning. He urged Ghanaian authorities to integrate the perspectives of the poor into public policy design to ensure that national development does not come at the cost of human dignity. By involving these communities in the planning process, the government can find sustainable alternatives to forced removals, such as onsite upgrades or mutually agreed relocation plans that include adequate compensation and support. Moving forward, the UN's stance highlights the need for Ghana to align its urban development strategies with international obligations. The Special Rapporteur’s remarks serve as a call to action for the Ministry of Works and Housing and local municipal authorities to reform their approach to land management and slum clearance. Ensuring that development is inclusive will be critical to protecting the rights of all Ghanaians, particularly the most vulnerable members of society living in urban centers.

A man in a navy blue suit and bright orange tie, identified as UN Special Rapporteur Balakrishnan Rajagopal, speaks at a press conference in Ghana. He is seated behind microphones, including one from Joy News, while holding a pen and addressing housing affordability issues.
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Koldo Casla urges Ghana to strengthen Rent Control Department

Koldo Casla, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, has called on the Ghanaian government to urgently empower the Rent Control Department following a 12-day assessment visit to the country. Casla emphasized the need for the department to be equipped with the necessary logistics and institutional mechanisms to effectively monitor and curb arbitrary rent increases that are currently pricing many citizens out of the formal housing market. During his visit, the Special Rapporteur observed that the lack of affordable formal housing options is driving a significant portion of the population into informal settlements. He revealed that approximately 31 percent of Ghana’s urban population currently resides in such settlements, with many others facing outright homelessness. Casla stressed that without robust governmental intervention to manage rent and ensure affordability, the most vulnerable citizens will continue to be marginalized by a market that fails to meet the basic human right to shelter. While acknowledging that the construction sector is a vital pillar of the national economy—contributing between 7 percent and 15 percent of the Gross Domestic Product—Casla argued that this growth must become more inclusive. He urged the administration of President John Mahama to align public housing policies with the actual needs of low-income earners and those living in poverty. Strengthening the Rent Control Department is a critical step in ensuring that the housing sector serves all Ghanaians, rather than just a wealthy minority, thereby fostering more equitable urban development across the nation.

Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John says Ato Forson has 'performed wonders with Common Fund releases'
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Ali Adolf John praises Cassiel Ato Forson for increased assembly funding

Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John has expressed strong approval for the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, regarding the accelerated disbursement of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). Speaking during a meeting with regional officials in Tamale, the minister highlighted a significant shift in the availability of financial resources for local governance since the start of President John Mahama’s administration. He noted that the timely releases are already beginning to transform the operational capacity of local authorities across the region. According to the Regional Minister, Dr. Ato Forson has "performed wonders" by ensuring that funds reach the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) without the protracted delays that often characterized previous periods. Ali Adolf John pointed out that these releases are providing much-needed relief to local administrators who have historically struggled to implement development projects due to financial constraints. He emphasized that the current administration's approach to fiscal decentralization is fostering a sense of excitement and renewed purpose among district officials. The Minister drew a sharp contrast between the current funding environment and the difficulties experienced over the past eight years under the previous administration. He remarked that those who were intimately involved in local governance during that time could best appreciate the current improvement in financial support. This shift is framed as a central component of President Mahama's commitment to strengthening local government structures and ensuring that development is felt at the grassroots level. The increased funding is expected to expedite various infrastructure and social intervention projects within the Northern Region. By prioritizing the District Assemblies Common Fund, the government aims to empower MMDAs to address local needs more effectively. Moving forward, the regional administration intends to monitor the application of these funds closely to ensure that the increased financial flow translates into tangible improvements in the lives of residents across the various districts.

Minority demands audit of GH₵16.4m gap in evacuation spending
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Minority demands audit of GH₵16.4m gap in evacuation spending

The Minority in Parliament is calling for an independent audit into the government’s GH₵49.72 million expenditure on evacuating Ghanaians from South Africa following xenophobic violence. Led by the Deputy Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, the caucus alleges a discrepancy of over GH₵16.4 million between official payment records and the flight data provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The demand follows a review of documents obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request submitted to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Central to the Minority's concerns is the management of reintegration grants for 442 minors identified during the evacuation process, which took place between May 27 and September 4, 2026. Speaking at a press conference, Ayeh highlighted significant anomalies in the payment register, specifically questioning how funds were disbursed to these children. The opposition is seeking clarification on whether the grants were paid directly to the minors or managed through their guardians, alongside concerns regarding discrepancies in the reported ages of the children involved. Beyond the grants for minors, the Minority pointed to inconsistencies in transport allowances and general logistical costs. While the caucus has stopped short of alleging outright theft, they insist that a thorough verification of the number of beneficiaries and the corresponding fund disbursements is essential to ensure transparency. The Ministry’s report indicates that the total expenditure was covered by a combination of direct government funding and private donations, but the Minority maintains that the names on the payment records do not align with the total amount claimed to have been spent. The evacuation exercise was launched in response to a surge in xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa earlier in 2026. As the Minority pushes for a detailed breakdown of the GH₵49.72 million bill, they emphasize that public accountability is paramount given the scale of the operation. The caucus expects the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide further documentation to bridge the GH₵16.4 million gap and prove that the funds reached the intended Ghanaian returnees.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces Cabinet approval for BRICS bid
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces Cabinet approval for BRICS bid

The Cabinet of Ghana has officially approved an application for the country to join BRICS as a partner country, a move intended to diversify foreign policy and expand development options. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the decision during a diplomatic visit by India’s External Affairs Minister. He clarified that the government is seeking "partner country" status, a specific tier that allows participation in summits and collaboration without the full voting rights of a member state. According to Minister Ablakwa, this application is part of a broader strategy for foreign-policy diversification and strategic autonomy. He emphasized that the bid does not represent a pivot away from traditional Western partners, stating that Ghana intends to maintain its existing relationships with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and other Western financial institutions. The goal is to enhance Ghana’s diplomatic options, allowing it to balance relationships between emerging economies and established global powers while pursuing economic transformation through industrialization. However, the proposal has drawn calls for careful strategic analysis from international relations experts. Analyst Prince Anuwar-Sadat Amadu urged the government to prioritize national interests, cautioning that BRICS participation should not be viewed as an automatic solution to economic challenges. He highlighted the need for transparency and parliamentary oversight to ensure any commitments made align with constitutional obligations. Similarly, Colonel Festus Aboagye noted that while the move could strengthen Ghana’s agency on the global stage, the government must manage the risks of new dependencies and potential geopolitical tensions. The bid for BRICS partnership is being framed as a modern application of Ghana’s long-standing policy of non-alignment, reminiscent of the approach taken by the nation’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. While Cabinet approval has been secured, observers noted that a formal application had yet to be submitted as of early October 2026. The success of the initiative will ultimately depend on Ghana's preparedness and its ability to negotiate tangible benefits, such as investment and technology transfer, to support its long-term development goals.

Ghana Cabinet approves Host Country Agreement with the Holy See
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Ghana Cabinet approves Host Country Agreement with the Holy See

The Ghanaian Cabinet has approved a formal Host Country Agreement with the Holy See, marking a significant step in formalizing the diplomatic and legal relationship between the Republic of Ghana and the central governing body of the Catholic Church. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the approval on October 9, 2026, during a meeting with Archbishop Julien Kaboré, the Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana. The agreement is now set to be transmitted to Parliament for ratification, signaling a resolution to a longstanding diplomatic matter. The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for bilateral relations, specifically defining the rights, privileges, and immunities accorded to ecclesiastical officials and members of the Catholic faithful within Ghana. It is strictly aligned with the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, ensuring that the legal status of the Holy See's representatives is consistent with international diplomatic standards. By clarifying these legal standing and protections, the agreement aims to facilitate the Church's mission and its interactions with the Ghanaian state. During the announcement, Minister Ablakwa emphasized the vital role the Catholic Church has played in Ghana’s national development over the decades. He particularly lauded the Church's extensive contributions to the education and healthcare sectors, which have historically complemented government efforts to provide essential services to citizens across the country. The agreement is seen as a formal recognition of this enduring partnership and a commitment to protecting the Church's institutional operations as it continues its social and religious work. Following the Cabinet's endorsement, the document will undergo parliamentary consideration in accordance with Article 75 of Ghana's 1992 Constitution, which governs the execution of international treaties and agreements. This constitutional process ensures that the agreement receives the necessary legislative oversight before becoming law. Once ratified, the pact will provide a solid, permanent legal foundation for the Holy See’s presence in Ghana, further strengthening the diplomatic ties between the two entities.

President Mahama inspects new CHPS Compounds in Ahafo Region
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John Dramani Mahama inspects two new CHPS compounds in Ahafo Region

President John Dramani Mahama has officially begun his #ResettingGhana tour in the Ahafo Region, where he inspected two newly constructed Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds. The inspection took place in the Tano North Municipality, focusing on facilities designed to bring essential medical services closer to rural populations. This visit underscores the administration's priority on expanding healthcare infrastructure as a cornerstone of its national development agenda. Located in the communities of Ahyiaem and Nsuapemkrom, the new health outposts are fully equipped with modern medical supplies and include on-site housing for healthcare workers. President Mahama noted that the projects were funded through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), emphasizing that such investments are critical for achieving universal healthcare access. By providing staff quarters, the government aims to ensure that medical personnel are available at all times to handle emergencies within these local communities. During the tour, the President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. He explained that the policy is intended to ensure that no Ghanaian is denied basic medical attention due to the inability to pay. Under this programme, patients visiting the newly commissioned CHPS compounds and other primary facilities will receive care without paying out-of-pocket fees. This initiative is expected to significantly improve health outcomes in the Ahafo Region by encouraging early diagnosis and treatment. Local traditional leaders and residents who met the President expressed their gratitude for the new facilities, noting the historical challenges of traveling long distances for basic healthcare. Accompanying the President were various government ministers and regional officials who participated in the site visits. The #ResettingGhana tour is expected to continue through other districts in the region, focusing on the progress of social intervention programmes and infrastructure projects.

President John Mahama addresses a large audience during the 'Resetting Ghana Tour' in the Ahafo Region. The indoor event features a stage with a prominent banner of Mahama and the Ghanaian flag, with many attendees dressed in traditional Kente and smocks.
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United States seeks to renegotiate rejected $109m health compact

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the United States government has entered into discussions with Ghana to revisit a $109 million health compact agreement that was previously rejected by the Ghanaian Cabinet. Speaking during his Resetting Ghana Tour in Goaso, Ahafo Region, the President explained that the review follows significant concerns regarding national sovereignty and the security of sensitive biological and medical data. The initial proposal for the five-year aid package was turned down after officials identified several contentious provisions. Key among the government's objections was a requirement for Ghana to share its national pathogen profiles and the private medical records of its citizens. Additionally, the agreement reportedly included mandates that would have restricted local regulatory authority, leading to fears that the compact could undermine the country's health autonomy. President Mahama emphasized that the rejection was a necessary step to protect the privacy of Ghanaians and ensure that the nation maintains control over its own healthcare data and regulatory frameworks. This stance reflects a broader priority for health sovereignty and a move toward reducing dependence on external funding if it requires compromising national security or legal standards. The U.S. government has now requested a review of the agreement, signaling a willingness to address the specific grievances that led to the initial deadlock. President Mahama noted that while the investment is significant, the protection of the nation’s biological assets and the confidentiality of patient information remain paramount. The ongoing discussions are expected to focus on amending the terms to align with Ghana’s domestic laws and security requirements.