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.

Paul Afoko on why he is the best person to lead NPP as national chairman as he formally enters race
politics|

NPP Reorganizes for 2028: Paul Afoko Enters Chairmanship Race Amid Successful Nationwide Constituency Elections

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has achieved a significant milestone in its internal restructuring process, successfully completing executive elections in 245 out of 276 constituencies. This 88.7% success rate marks a critical step in the party's effort to rebuild its grassroots structures following the 2024 general election defeat. While the majority of polls were conducted peacefully, 31 constituencies remain in dispute due to court injunctions or local disagreements, notably in Tema East and Tema Central. Security challenges were also reported in areas like Bantama and Ejura Sekyedumase, where police arrested seven individuals, including media personality 'Okatakyie' Kwame Afrifa Mensah, following disturbances at polling stations. Despite these isolated incidents, party leadership has praised the process as a testament to the NPP's democratic resilience. Key victories were recorded across the regions, including the re-election of Kakari Appau in Tano North and Muniru Tanko in Techiman South, alongside new leadership for Atwima Nwabiagya South under Dr. Eugene Danquah Ofori-Appiah. These newly elected executives are now tasked with mobilizing local support and fostering reconciliation among members. The Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has already charged these officials to target over 85% of the votes in the Ashanti Region for the 2028 elections, emphasizing the need to promote the vision of Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. At the national level, the race for the chairmanship has intensified with the formal entry of former Chairman Paul Awentami Afoko. Launching his campaign under a '3Rs' agenda—Reunite, Rebuild, and Recapture Power—Afoko has emphasized forgiveness and the healing of internal wounds. Reflecting on his controversial 2015 suspension, he stated that he has moved past previous grievances and is committed to restoring the party's founding values. Analysts, including pollster Ben Ephson and Dr. Kwasi Amakye-Boateng, suggest that Afoko's perceived neutrality and history of loyalty could offer a unique opportunity for party-wide reconciliation. Simultaneously, supporters of former General Secretary John Boadu are advocating for his 'tested leadership,' arguing that his experience in stabilizing the party during previous crises is essential for a successful 2028 campaign. As the NPP continues its internal elections, the central theme remains the urgent need for unity between the national leadership and the grassroots. The selection of a National Chairman who can collaborate effectively with Dr. Bawumia is seen as the defining factor for the party's future. With the constituency structures largely in place, the focus now shifts to resolving the remaining disputes and finalizing the national executive lineup to ensure a cohesive front for the upcoming general elections.

Clergy of the Ghana Armed Forces performing a dedication ceremony before the sod cutting of the Burma Camp Redevelopment Project. With them are Brogya Genfi (left), Deputy Defence Minister, and Lieutenant General William Agyapong (2nd from left), the Chief of Defence Staff. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
politics|

Ghana Armed Forces Launch GH¢196m Infrastructure Overhaul as Speaker Bagbin Calls for Moral Leadership

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has officially commenced a transformative redevelopment program at Burma Camp, aimed at modernizing aging colonial-era infrastructure and enhancing the welfare of military personnel. The initiative, which includes the Burma Camp, Post Office, and El-Wak redevelopments, is backed by a substantial commitment of approximately GH¢196 million from 66 organizations and individuals. Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, emphasized that the project is central to the government’s 'Resetting Ghana Agenda,' focusing on restoring dignity to the men and women in uniform through the provision of modern housing units, including two-bedroom and studio apartments. This modernization drive is expected to significantly increase housing capacity and improve the operational readiness of the forces within the next nine months. In tandem with these physical improvements, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for a parallel focus on the 'moral infrastructure' of the nation as a prerequisite for sustainable development. Addressing the National Development Conference organized by the Church of Pentecost, the Speaker argued that building the character of the people is the true cornerstone of national progress. Under the theme 'Moral Vision and National Development,' Bagbin asserted that combating societal ills like corruption requires a foundation of integrity and cultural values rather than legal measures alone. He warned against a general moral decline and urged a national renewal centered on selfless service, a sentiment echoed by local government leaders and the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye, who reiterated the church's commitment to societal transformation. The focus on institutional dignity and moral vision serves as a critical backdrop to ongoing concerns regarding military-civilian relations and the need for professional accountability. This necessity is underscored by the demand for justice in historical cases of misconduct, such as the assault on Multimedia Group reporter Obrempongba Kwame Owusu by military personnel in Nkwanta South. The journalist was hospitalized after being attacked while documenting curfew enforcement, leading to persistent calls for accountability from the Military High Command. As the GAF moves forward with its infrastructure projects and a new Home Ownership Policy, the integration of ethical leadership and improved living conditions remains a priority to ensure that the restoration of dignity translates into both personal welfare for soldiers and better service to the Ghanaian public.

Workers of China Jiangxi Engineering Ghana Limited working on a section of the Nkwanta-Oti Damango section of the upgrading of the Eastern Corridor Road
politics|

Government Ministers Intensify Oversight of Irrigation and Road Projects to Boost Food Security and Connectivity

Ministers representing the sectors of Food and Agriculture and Roads and Highways have conducted intensive site inspections to evaluate the progress of key infrastructure projects vital to Ghana's economic development. These visits underscore a dual focus on achieving national food security through modern irrigation and improving transportation through the completion of the Eastern Corridor Road. While agricultural projects in the Afram Plains are nearing completion, road construction in the Oti Region remains hampered by contractor inefficiencies. In the Kwahu Afram Plains, Minister of Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku inspected the Ekyeamamfrom Economic Enclave Irrigation and Konadu Irrigation projects. These facilities are 85% and 96% complete, respectively, and are designed to support year-round farming. The government views these projects as essential tools to reduce Ghana's $3 billion food import bill. Despite the progress, the Minister acknowledged challenges such as funding delays and disturbances from Fulani herdsmen. He assured the contractors of government assistance in securing funds and urged for immediate interventions to stop the disruptions affecting the construction sites. Conversely, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, issued a stern warning to contractors following an inspection of the Nkwanta-Oti Damango section of the Eastern Corridor Road. Currently at only 24% completion, the project has been stalled by a lack of manpower and machinery from China Jiangxi Engineering Ghana Limited. Minister Agbodza criticized the practice of cutting back on essential resources and directed the Ghana Highway Authority to stop assigning multiple projects to underperforming contractors. This move is intended to ensure that existing commitments under the "Big Push" programme are met with the necessary urgency and accountability. The successful delivery of these projects is viewed as a prerequisite for national growth. While the nearly finished irrigation systems offer a promising outlook for local farmers, the slow pace of road development remains a bottleneck for the movement of goods. Moving forward, the government intends to maintain strict oversight and demand better performance from contractors to ensure that public funds translate into functional infrastructure that serves the Ghanaian population.

NACOC Traces 73 Assets While Former Officials Adu-Boahene and Abdul-Wahab Face State Legal Challenges Over Seized Funds and Alleged Fraud
politics|

NACOC Traces 73 Assets While Former Officials Adu-Boahene and Abdul-Wahab Face State Legal Challenges Over Seized Funds and Alleged Fraud

State agencies in Ghana have intensified their crackdown on financial crime and narcotics trafficking, marked by significant new asset seizures and high-profile legal challenges. The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has identified 73 assets linked to drug trafficking syndicates, while the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) continues to navigate complex legal battles involving former government officials Kwabena Adu-Boahene and Hanan Abdul-Wahab. These developments reflect a strategic shift by the government toward dismantling the financial infrastructure of criminal networks while pursuing accountability for the alleged diversion of state funds. In the Accra High Court, the defense team for former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene has intensified its scrutiny of the state's case regarding an alleged GH"49.1 million diversion. During a rigorous cross-examination, defense lawyers challenged EOCO lead investigator Frank Marshall Cromwell over the lack of a formal complaint prior to the probe and the validity of salary records obtained from the National Security Council. The defense argues that the investigation, which relies on intelligence-led tip-offs, lacks a clear understanding of the national security structure and the Director-General's specific financial authority. The court has scheduled the continuation of this fraud trial for July 15, 2026. Parallel to these proceedings, the law firm Dame & Partners has issued a formal demand to the Attorney General and the Executive Director of EOCO for the return of over #6,700 seized from Hanan Abdul-Wahab. Abdul-Wahab, the former CEO of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), was arrested at Accra International Airport, where the funds were confiscated. His legal team maintains that the money was intended for legitimate travel and medical expenses in the United Kingdom, raising significant questions about the procedures used by state agencies during high-profile airport interceptions. Amidst these individual legal battles, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak has outlined a new national strategy to combat narcotics. By identifying 73 key assets for forfeiture, NACOC aims to cripple the economic power of drug kingpins rather than focusing solely on low-level users. This initiative is supported by a significant injection of state resources, including 22 new operational vehicles, representing the first major equipment upgrade for the commission in nearly a decade. The government also confirmed the establishment of dedicated narcotics courts to ensure swift legal action against organized crime networks. This comprehensive approach by Ghanaian authorities demonstrates a coordinated effort to strengthen the rule of law and protect the nation's financial integrity. By targeting both white-collar financial crime and the assets of narcotics syndicates, the government is signaling that no individual or organization is exempt from rigorous investigation. As the Adu-Boahene trial progresses and the NACOC asset forfeitures begin, these cases will serve as a benchmark for the effectiveness of Ghana's justice and security apparatus in the years to come.

Media Personality Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah and Six Others Arrested Over NPP Election Disturbance in Afigya Sekyere East
politics|

Media Personality Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah and Six Others Arrested Over NPP Election Disturbance in Afigya Sekyere East

The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the arrest of prominent media personality Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah, along with six other individuals, following violent disturbances during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency executive elections. The arrests took place in Wiamoase, located in the Ashanti North Region, as police intervened to restore order during the Afigya Sekyere East Constituency polls. The police identified the primary suspect as 43-year-old Kwame Afrifa Mensah, stating that all seven individuals are currently assisting with ongoing investigations into the cause of the unrest. The disturbances reportedly stemmed from deep-seated tensions within the local party structure. According to Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah’s campaign team, the unrest was triggered by allegations that certain constituency officials had printed unauthorized ballot papers. Furthermore, the campaign team claimed that the officials attempted to proceed with the executive elections despite a standing court injunction intended to halt the process. These allegations suggest a significant breach of internal party protocols and legal directives, which ultimately led to the physical confrontations that necessitated police intervention. Following the news of the arrest, public reactions have intensified, notably from Ghanaian media personality Afia Schwarzenegger. She has issued a stern call to the NPP national leadership to advocate for the immediate release of the broadcaster and parliamentary aspirant. Schwarzenegger’s intervention highlights the political sensitivity of the case, as she urged the party to address the underlying grievances of the Afigya Sekyere East constituents rather than resorting to the detention of candidates. As the Ghana Police Service continues its investigation, the situation remains a focal point for discussions regarding internal party democracy and the adherence to legal processes during political transitions.

Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Champions National Development Through Enhanced Security and Scientific Innovation
politics|

Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Champions National Development Through Enhanced Security and Scientific Innovation

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has concluded a series of high-profile working visits to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), emphasizing that national development is impossible without a foundation of peace, security, and scientific advancement. During her engagements, the Vice President called for a paradigm shift in how state institutions interact with the public, urging security agencies to transition from a posture of intimidation to one of professional collaboration. She stressed that public confidence is a critical asset for law enforcement and that officers must proactively explain their actions to citizens to foster trust and ensure the success of government safety policies. At the Ministry of the Interior, the Vice President, accompanied by Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and institutional efficiency. She specifically advocated for the increased recruitment, support, and retention of women within the security services, noting that their career progression must remain a top priority. Furthermore, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang challenged the prevailing notion that Ghana lacks a "maintenance culture," arguing instead for the early involvement of technicians in the procurement of government equipment. By engaging technical experts from the beginning of the acquisition process, she noted, the state can extend the lifespan of its assets and redirect saved resources toward other critical national priorities. In a significant update on the government's digitalization efforts, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak revealed that the newly launched Electronic Visa (E-Visa) portal has recorded over 1,000 applications from travelers across 78 countries within its first month. This modernization effort is complemented by a directive from the presidency ensuring that African passport holders traveling for business purposes will not pay visa fees when using the portal. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to simplify travel to Ghana and enhance the country's appeal as a business and tourism destination. Turning to the scientific sector, Acting Minister for MESTI, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, briefed the Vice President on plans to recruit 400 scientists to bolster Ghana's research and innovation institutions. The ministry is currently seeking financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance to address human resource shortages that have long hindered technological development. To expand environmental governance, the ministry is also establishing 32 new district offices for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and has entered into strategic climate agreements with countries like Switzerland and Singapore to mobilize resources for emission reductions under the Paris Agreement. These visits underscore a coordinated governmental push toward modernizing state apparatuses while maintaining a human-centered approach to governance. By focusing on the intersection of security professionalism, gender inclusion, scientific research, and digital efficiency, the administration aims to create a more resilient and transparent environment for national progress. The Vice President concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting these ministries as they implement reforms designed to enhance public service delivery and secure the nation's future.

South Africa Deports 53,000 Foreigners Amid Regional Judicial Turmoil in Sudan and Uganda
politics|

South Africa Deports 53,000 Foreigners Amid Regional Judicial Turmoil in Sudan and Uganda

The political landscape across Africa is currently marked by significant migration crackdowns and high-stakes legal proceedings. In a major policy shift, the South African government has processed more than 53,000 foreign nationals for deportation and repatriation over a five-week period. This intensified campaign, primarily targeting undocumented migrants from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, follows a wave of violent anti-immigration protests. Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi emphasized that while the state is exercising its sovereign right to manage its borders, it remains committed to balancing public demand for security with international human rights obligations. However, the crackdown has sparked concerns regarding vigilantism and has strained diplomatic relations with neighboring nations, particularly as South African authorities navigate the socioeconomic frustrations—such as high crime and unemployment—that often fuel anti-migrant sentiment. Simultaneously, the Sudanese judiciary has taken a drastic step in addressing the country's internal conflict. A court in Port Sudan has sentenced Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to death in absentia. The ruling, which also applies to fifteen other senior RSF commanders, cites war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide committed in West Darfur. Key evidence in the trial included the June 2023 assassination of state governor Khamis Abbakar. While the RSF continues to maintain control over large territories, this verdict represents the first major domestic conviction of the group's leadership since the civil war erupted in April 2023, though legal experts remain skeptical about the immediate international enforceability of the sentence given the country's unstable security environment. In Uganda, the judiciary has cleared the path for a contentious treason trial against prominent opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his associate Hajji Obeid Lutale. The High Court recently dismissed an application by the defendants to terminate proceedings, characterizing the motion as a delay tactic and scheduling the trial to begin on July 13, 2026. The case has been moved from a military court to a civilian venue following a Supreme Court ruling, yet it remains shrouded in controversy. The trial opened amidst reports of political repression, including travel bans and the arrest of Besigye’s primary defense lawyers. Besigye has criticized the state for undermining his right to a fair trial, framing the charges as politically motivated attempts to stifle opposition to the long-standing administration of President Yoweri Museveni. These developments on the continent coincide with broader global shifts in human rights enforcement. The European Union has expanded its sanctions regime against Russia, targeting individuals and entities involved in cybercrime and the suppression of dissent. Notable targets include the social media platform VKontakte and its subsidiary, Communication Platform LLC, for their role in developing the MaxApp, which is allegedly used to monitor Russian citizens. Collectively, these events across South Africa, Sudan, and Uganda underscore a period of heightened state assertiveness and judicial intervention. As South Africa moves forward with its border infrastructure programs and Sudan’s legal system attempts to hold paramilitary leaders accountable, the outcomes will likely redefine regional stability and the future of democratic engagement in these nations.

Trump Reinstates Iran Port Blockade as U.S.-Tehran Military Conflict Escalates in Strait of Hormuz
politics|

Trump Reinstates Iran Port Blockade as U.S.-Tehran Military Conflict Escalates in Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump has announced the reinstatement of a naval blockade on Iranian ports while imposing a controversial 20% charge on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move, effective immediately, comes as the region faces a volatile cycle of retaliatory military strikes between U.S. and Iranian forces, significantly destabilizing one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. While the U.S. maintains that the waterway remains open for international shipping, the blockade specifically targets Iranian vessels to exert maximum pressure on Tehran following a breakdown in diplomatic relations. The military situation has reached a boiling point, with U.S. Central Command launching targeted aerial campaigns against more than 140 Iranian military installations and defense systems. These strikes were reportedly aimed at degrading Tehran’s ability to interfere with commercial traffic. In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has retaliated by attacking U.S. military bases and facilities across several Middle Eastern nations. Oman has also reported drone attacks near the Musandam region and the strategic port of Duqm, further heightening fears of a broader regional conflagration. Amidst the exchange of fire, a rhetorical battle over the "Guardianship" of the Strait has emerged. President Trump proclaimed the United States as the "Guardian of the Hormuz Strait," asserting that the U.S. Navy will ensure security for non-Iranian vessels while seeking reimbursement for these operations. Conversely, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insisted that Iran remains the true protector of the passage and suggested that safe transit should be compensated by the international community. The proposed 20% cargo fee by the U.S. has raised significant legal questions and sparked skepticism among international allies and domestic critics concerned about trade legality. The conflict is further complicated by the recent death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The new Iranian leadership has vowed "severe revenge," leading to the collapse of previously proposed interim peace agreements and a total deterioration of diplomatic communication. Global energy markets have reacted sharply to the unrest; Brent crude futures have surged as fears of a total supply disruption grow, given that the Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 25% of global oil shipments. The standoff puts regional stability at extreme risk as both nations prioritize strategic dominance over de-escalation. In a unrelated domestic development, the Cabinet of Ghana has postponed a scheduled meeting intended to finalize a position paper on the review of the 1992 Constitution. The delay was attributed to the National Clean-Up Exercise, with a new date yet to be established. President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized that the proposed constitutional amendments are vital for strengthening the Fourth Republic, and the government remains committed to submitting the final report for implementation once the review process is concluded.

Dealing with flood waste: President Mahama activates 6 idle Zoomlion stations
politics|

President Mahama Mobilizes Military and Infrastructure in Nationwide Recovery Effort Following Devastating June 29 Floods

In the wake of the catastrophic June 29 flood disaster that claimed approximately 30 lives and displaced over 38,000 people across Greater Accra and six other regions, President John Dramani Mahama has launched a multi-sectoral recovery initiative. To spearhead the restoration of affected communities, the President declared a two-day national clean-up exercise on July 10 and 11, themed “Our Actions, Our Future: Cleaning Ghana after the Floods.” Supported by Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and the Ghana Armed Forces, the operation focuses on clearing massive debris, desilting choked drains, and disinfecting communities to prevent disease outbreaks. The military’s engineering and personnel support have been complemented by the immediate activation of six previously idle waste transfer stations managed by Zoomlion Ghana Limited in Achimota, Teshie, Kpone, Ashaiman, Pantang, and Adipa to streamline the evacuation of flood waste. To support long-term resilience, the government has allocated a GH"350 million emergency recovery package for infrastructure improvements and relief efforts. However, this financial commitment is being met with unprecedented oversight measures. The District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) Secretariat, led by Administrator Michael Harry Yamson, has launched "Intellex," a digital monitoring portal designed to track real-time spending by Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). This move follows a scathing audit revealing that 1,587 out of 4,767 previously funded local projects were non-existent. The DACF has warned that future funding will be withheld from any assembly that fails to provide transparent, verifiable updates on flood-resilience projects via the new portal, ensuring that the GH"350 million allocation is not lost to "ghost projects" or fund diversion. While the recovery efforts have seen significant community participation, the national exercise has not been without friction. The Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) recently condemned the conduct of Okaikwei North MP Theresa Lardi Awuni, who allegedly confronted staff at a CalBank branch for remaining open during the clean-up. GAB clarified that banks provide essential services and remained operational within the law, calling for more respectful engagement from public officials. Beyond these administrative tensions, urban planning experts have characterized the floods as a "manufactured disaster," arguing that decades of poor governance and unregulated construction in flood-prone areas have exacerbated the impact of heavy rains. These critics suggest that while immediate clean-ups are necessary, only deep-seated local governance reform and strict adherence to urban planning can prevent Accra from facing similar tragedies in every subsequent rainy season.

NAM 1 files witness statements, set to continue testimony in Menzgold case July 17
politics|

Nana Appiah Mensah Menzgold Trial: Witness Statements Filed as Cross-Examination Resumes July 17

The Accra High Court has adjourned the high-profile criminal trial of Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM1, to July 17, 2026. This decision follows the completion of a Case Management Conference (CMC) and the belated filing of witness statements by the former CEO of the collapsed gold dealership firm, Menzgold Ghana Limited. NAM1, who is standing trial alongside two of his companies, faces 39 counts of defrauding by false pretense, money laundering, and operating a specialized deposit-taking institution without a license. Despite the gravity of the charges, the accused has maintained a not guilty plea and remains on bail. During the most recent court proceedings, it was confirmed that NAM1 submitted his witness statement, a document the court had originally ordered to be filed in 2024. The court has granted the defense until the next hearing date to file any additional supporting documents and evidence. The prosecution's case centers on allegations that between 2016 and 2018, the accused misled over 16,000 investors to deposit approximately GH"340,835,650 into Menzgold by promising monthly returns of 7% to 10%. Investigations revealed that these funds were frequently transferred to related entities, leading to the eventual collapse of the scheme after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ordered the company to halt its unlicensed operations. The Coalition of Aggrieved Customers of Menzgold (CACM) has been closely monitoring the case, with spokesperson Fred Forson expressing hope for a prompt conclusion. The coalition noted that the filing of the witness statement is a critical step forward in a legal process that has seen numerous delays. The collapse of Menzgold remains one of the most significant financial scandals in Ghana's history, having caused widespread economic hardship and multiple public protests by depositors who have been unable to access their life savings for several years. As the trial moves into the cross-examination phase on July 17, the court will scrutinize the testimony provided by NAM1 and the seven defense documents he intends to rely upon. The prosecution continues to maintain that the accused operated a fraudulent enterprise by representing Menzgold as a licensed financial institution when it was not. The upcoming session is expected to be a pivotal moment in the state's efforts to provide justice for the thousands of affected investors and to bring closure to this long-running judicial matter.

Ghana Mourns Overlord of Dagbon Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II as Leaders Hail His Legacy of Peace and Unity
politics|

Ghana Mourns Overlord of Dagbon Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II as Leaders Hail His Legacy of Peace and Unity

Ghana is in a state of mourning following the passing of the Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, on July 13. National leaders, traditional authorities, and international partners have united in paying tribute to the late monarch, who is being celebrated as a transformative figure who restored stability to one of Ghana's most historic kingdoms. The Government of Ghana, through a statement by Presidential Spokesman Felix Kwakye Ofosu on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, expressed profound sadness, describing the late Yaa Naa as a distinguished ruler who fostered deep reconciliation and healing within Dagbon after decades of complex chieftaincy disputes. Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also honored the late Overlord, reminiscing about his pivotal role during the reconciliation process that followed the 'Dagbon Crisis.' Akufo-Addo recalled his own involvement in the diplomatic efforts during the king's tenure as the Chief of Savelugu, noting that he was honored with the title 'Naa Abudani' in recognition of those efforts. He praised the Yaa Naa for fostering a sense of pride and cultural revival within the kingdom. Similarly, the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, described the loss as a 'tremendous' one for the entire nation, hailing the late king as a champion of traditional leadership reforms who advocated for the active involvement of chiefs in national governance. Adding to the chorus of tributes, the Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, emphasized that Dagbon has lost 'more than a king.' Iddrisu characterized the late Yaa Naa as a bridge-builder and a 'great unifier' who prioritized the collective harmony of his people over all else. He called on the citizens of Dagbon to honor the king's memory by strictly adhering to the established rotational succession tradition between the Abudu and Andani royal gates. This system, which was solidified during the late king’s reign, is seen as the bedrock of the current peace and stability within the kingdom. On the international front, the European Union (EU) issued a statement praising Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II for his wisdom and commitment to regional stability. The EU noted that his leadership was instrumental in ensuring that Dagbon remained a pillar of peace in Northern Ghana, providing a foundation for development. As the Gbewaa Palace enters a period of mourning, leaders across the political spectrum have urged the local community to support the incoming regent and the traditional authorities. The consensus among all mourners remains clear: the greatest tribute to the late Overlord will be the continued preservation of the unity and peace he worked so tirelessly to establish.

3 Arrested as NPP Bantama Constituency Elections turn violent
politics|

Kingsley Atta and Dr. Ofori-Appiah Secure Victories as Violence and Legal Hurdles Mar NPP Constituency Polls

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) concluded a high-stakes weekend of constituency executive elections across Ghana between July 11 and 13, 2026, characterized by significant leadership shifts, violent disruptions, and a growing concern over the monetization of internal party processes. In a major upset in the Bantama constituency, Kingsley Atta was elected Chairman with 714 votes, unseating the incumbent Fiifi Mensah in a rescheduled poll on July 12. Similarly, in Atwima Nwabiagya South, legal practitioner Dr. Eugene Danquah Ofori-Appiah ousted the incumbent Stephen Boateng, securing 742 votes to Boateng’s 621. These victories reflect a broader trend of delegates seeking fresh leadership as the party begins its strategic realignment for the 2028 general elections. While many areas reported successful outcomes, the electoral process was marred by pockets of violence and legal interventions. In Bantama, three individuals were arrested after a confrontation on July 11 led to the destruction of electoral materials and injuries to party members. The chaos forced the party to conduct the election without Electoral Commission supervision due to an eleventh-hour court injunction. Legal hurdles also halted proceedings elsewhere; the Sefwi Wiawso High Court placed an injunction on the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai elections following grievances from seven aspirants, while polls in Atwima Mponua were postponed indefinitely after a Kumasi High Court ruling cited the exclusion of delegates from earlier polling station elections. Beyond physical disruptions, the integrity of the voting process faced scrutiny from within. Several candidates and officials voiced alarm over the "monetization" of the elections. In a viral video, an aspirant named Alex lamented that nearly all 1,600 voters in his constituency requested financial incentives before casting their ballots. Similar reports emerged from the Bongo constituency, where research officer Ake’ema-Kapoe Lawrence noted that delegates delayed voting while waiting for cash gifts. These incidents have sparked a debate within the party regarding the sustainability of its internal democratic structures and the influence of money on delegate loyalty. Despite these challenges, newly elected executives have largely focused on a message of reconciliation. In Techiman North, re-elected Chairman Dr. Stephen Appiagyei Donkor called for immediate unity to counter the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2028. This sentiment was echoed in Ho West by David Selorm Dartey and in Asante-Akim South by Kyei Noah, who narrowly retained his seat by just 12 votes. The party leadership has emphasized that these elections are a critical foundation for grassroots mobilization, urging defeated candidates to prioritize collective success over personal disappointment. Looking ahead, the NPP National Council has mandated that all branches complete any outstanding chapter elections by July 19, 2026. This deadline is a strict prerequisite for participating in the upcoming branch elections scheduled for August 8, 2026. As the party works to resolve pending legal disputes in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai and Atwima Mponua, the focus remains on ensuring a fully constituted party structure that can support the national campaign efforts under the leadership of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.