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The latest Ghana politics coverage in one place: government and parliament, elections, policy, and the people shaping national life. Stories are curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

Family of Maamobi Shooting Victim Tawfic Abdul Mumuni Appeals to President Mahama for Urgent Medical Aid
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Family of Maamobi Shooting Victim Tawfic Abdul Mumuni Appeals to President Mahama for Urgent Medical Aid

The family of Tawfic Abdul Mumuni, a young man left incapacitated following a violent political clash in Maamobi, has issued a desperate plea for presidential intervention to secure life-altering medical treatment. Injured during a campaign-related shooting in October 2024, Tawfic remains unable to walk and is in urgent need of an expensive surgical procedure to regain his mobility. His family is now calling directly on President John Dramani Mahama to provide the necessary resources, citing a total lack of support from state officials in the months following the traumatic event. During a recent press briefing, Tawfic’s mother, Samira Mohammed, shared the harrowing reality of her son's condition and the overwhelming financial burden placed on their household. She described a state of deep despair, noting that despite the initial national outcry and various promises of assistance from officials at the time of the incident, the family has been largely abandoned. The cost of the required surgery is far beyond their reach, leaving the young man bedridden while the family criticizes the government's failure to follow through on commitments made to the victims of the Maamobi violence. The situation highlights the lingering scars of political violence in Ghana and the often-overlooked aftermath for the families of those caught in the crossfire. The Mumuni family emphasized that true political reconciliation and national peace cannot be achieved through rhetoric alone; rather, it requires tangible justice and comprehensive care for victims. They argue that the state has a moral and social obligation to ensure that citizens who suffer during political activities are not forgotten once the news cycle moves on. As the family awaits a formal response from the presidency, their plea serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of partisan instability. The case has reignited public discussions regarding the adequacy of support systems for victims of civil unrest and the accountability of political leaders toward their constituents. For Tawfic’s family, the intervention of the President represents their final hope for restoring his health and dignity, urging the administration to act swiftly to provide the medical aid necessary for his recovery.

US and Israel Launch Major Military Operations Against Iran Following Reported Death of Supreme Leader
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US and Israel Launch Major Military Operations Against Iran Following Reported Death of Supreme Leader

The United States and Israel have initiated significant military strikes across Iran, signaling a major escalation in Middle Eastern tensions. Dubbed "Operation Epic Fury" by the Pentagon and "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israeli forces, the joint offensive consists primarily of high-intensity air raids targeting strategic Iranian leadership and military infrastructure. Central to the operation is the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which U.S. President Donald Trump announced as a moment of "justice" for the global community. Following the strikes, the Iranian government has officially declared 40 days of national mourning, confirming a significant shift in the country's political landscape. The military campaign has resulted in heavy casualties and widespread destruction. Reports indicate that over 200 people have been killed in Iran, including seven high-ranking officials. However, the strikes have also drawn international scrutiny due to civilian impacts, most notably a tragic airstrike on a girls' school that resulted in dozens of fatalities. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched a series of missile attacks targeting U.S. assets and military installations across the Middle East, as well as several neighboring Gulf nations. While the U.S. currently maintains a significant military presence in the region, officials have emphasized that no ground troops have been deployed into Iranian territory thus far. In Washington, the strikes have reignited a fierce debate over executive authority and war powers. While Republican lawmakers have largely unified in support of the operations, citing the need to dismantle Iran's nuclear ambitions and its "campaign of bloodshed," Democrats have raised concerns regarding the legality of the actions. Critics in Congress argue that the administration bypassed necessary legislative approval, noting that there has been no formal declaration of war. President Trump, meanwhile, has continued to urge the Iranian populace to seize this moment to overthrow their clerical rulers, framing the military action as a preemptive necessity following the collapse of diplomatic negotiations regarding Tehran’s long-range missile programs. The international community has reacted with a mixture of alarm and calls for restraint. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalation, warning that the conflict poses a dire threat to international peace and security. Global powers, including Russia, Saudi Arabia, and various European nations, have urged both sides to seek a path toward de-escalation to prevent a wider regional war. As the situation remains volatile, local authorities in several U.S. cities have been placed on high alert for potential security threats. With the Pentagon indicating that military objectives include the total elimination of Iranian military capabilities, the coming days are expected to see continued bombardment and heightened instability across the region.

President Mahama’s 2026 SONA: Military Debt Pledges Met with Poultry Figure Controversy and Opposition Scrutiny
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President Mahama’s 2026 SONA: Military Debt Pledges Met with Poultry Figure Controversy and Opposition Scrutiny

President John Dramani Mahama delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2026, outlining a series of policy initiatives and fiscal commitments aimed at national revitalization. Central to his address was the government's pledge to clear over GH¢1 billion in accumulated gratuity arrears owed to approximately 3,000 military personnel. These arrears, which stem from a 2020 policy change that extended service periods without adequate budgetary provisions, have been a long-standing grievance. The President emphasized that a coordinated effort between the military and relevant ministries is underway to ensure that affected service members finally receive their full entitlements. The atmosphere during this portion of the speech was punctuated by a light-hearted exchange with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, momentarily softening the partisan divide in the chamber. However, the address was quickly overshadowed by a significant controversy regarding the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' poultry revitalization program. President Mahama claimed that during the program's pilot phase, 720 birds were distributed to 13,000 farmers to boost local production and reduce imports. This statement triggered immediate social media outrage and ridicule, with critics labeling the figures as a 'fabrication' or a 'mathematical impossibility.' While some observers suggested the President may have intended to say 720,000 birds, the error led to the viral spread of hashtags such as #MahamaLied and #StateOfHopelessAddress, with many questioning the credibility of the government's reported achievements. Opposition members were quick to capitalize on these discrepancies. Ralph Poku-Adusei, the Member of Parliament for Bekwai, criticized the address as a 'public lecture' that failed to reflect the harsh economic realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians. He argued that despite the President’s positive macroeconomic indicators, many citizens are suffering from job losses and unpaid cocoa farmers remain in distress. Poku-Adusei called for greater fiscal discipline that prioritizes actual livelihoods over statistical claims. Adding to the political drama, the session saw a spirited display from New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs, who greeted their 2024 running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), with chants of support as he navigated the parliamentary floor. As the nation digests the details of the 2026 SONA, the focus remains split between the government's ambitious promises to clear military debts and the fallout from the poultry distribution figures. While the administration seeks to promote the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' initiative as a job-creation engine involving 50 anchor farmers, the mathematical errors in the presentation have provided the opposition with significant political ammunition. The coming weeks are expected to see intensified debates in Parliament as lawmakers scrutinize the President's claims against the backdrop of Ghana's ongoing economic challenges and the lived experiences of its workforce.

Government Intensifies National Welfare and Security: NSA Disbursements, School Feeding Expansion, and Galamsey Crackdown
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Government Intensifies National Welfare and Security: NSA Disbursements, School Feeding Expansion, and Galamsey Crackdown

The Ghanaian government has announced a series of significant updates across the financial, agricultural, and security sectors, reflecting a concerted effort to enhance national development and maintain the rule of law. Central to these developments is the successful disbursement of National Service allowances, the expansion of the ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ poultry initiative into schools, and a major police operation against illegal mining in the Eastern Region. These actions highlight the administration's current focus on social intervention, food security, and environmental protection. In a move providing much-needed relief to thousands of graduates, the National Service Authority (NSA) confirmed the successful payment of allowances for January 2026. Director-General Ruth Dela Seddoh announced on February 27, 2026, that funds have been released to all eligible National Service Personnel (NSP) across the country. Seddoh emphasized the Authority’s ongoing commitment to improving financial management systems to ensure timely payments in the future. This disbursement is expected to boost the morale of the youth workforce, who play a critical role in various sectors of the national economy. Complementing these social welfare efforts, the government is also scaling up its ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ poultry revitalisation programme. Initially launched in November 2025 as part of the broader Feed Ghana Programme, the initiative is now being integrated into the School Feeding Programme. At a recent workshop in the Greater Accra Region, National Coordinator Kelvin Ocran introduced locally produced chicken to caterers, emphasizing its superior nutritional value for school children. By prioritizing locally raised broilers over imported alternatives, the government aims to empower domestic farmers, improve child health, and move toward national food self-sufficiency. While advancing social programs, the state has also intensified its fight against environmental degradation. On February 27, 2026, the Eastern South Regional Police Command conducted a high-stakes raid in the Birim North District, resulting in the arrest of 38 suspects involved in illegal mining, or galamsey. The operation targeted a sophisticated setup hidden within a palm plantation, uncovering the use of high-powered machinery for gold washing. Notably, the suspects include foreign nationals and minors, raising serious concerns regarding child labor and exploitation. The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in court on March 2, 2026, as investigations into the operation’s ringleaders continue. Together, these developments underscore the government's multi-dimensional approach to governance as 2026 progresses. By addressing the financial needs of the youth, revitalizing the agricultural value chain through school feeding, and enforcing strict laws against illegal mining, the administration seeks to create a more resilient and sustainable national framework. The coming months will likely see further focus on the efficiency of these social interventions and the continued prosecution of environmental crimes to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources and economic future.

From Classroom Credentials to Policy Defense: Dr. Kwabena Tandoh and Ghana’s Evolving Educational Landscape
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From Classroom Credentials to Policy Defense: Dr. Kwabena Tandoh and Ghana’s Evolving Educational Landscape

In a series of significant disclosures regarding Ghana’s educational and political landscape, Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, the former Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has addressed long-standing public debates and defended key government reforms. Speaking on JoyNews, Dr. Tandoh provided definitive confirmation regarding the educational background of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. Dr. Tandoh revealed that the two were classmates and dorm mates in Dorm 7 of Aggrey House at Prempeh College, a revelation intended to settle years of speculation and skepticism surrounding the regional chairman’s academic credentials. Beyond personal histories, Dr. Tandoh utilized the platform to mount a vigorous defense of the controversial double-track system implemented in Senior High Schools. He described the initiative as "absolutely worth it," asserting that it was the only viable mechanism to provide educational access to approximately 1.3 million Ghanaian children following the introduction of the Free Senior High School policy. While acknowledging the logistical hurdles and infrastructure deficits that have drawn public criticism, Tandoh emphasized that the system’s primary objective—ensuring no child was left behind due to space constraints—outweighed the operational challenges encountered during its rollout. Parallel to these administrative defenses, the Ghanaian government has launched a revised Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Policy. Led by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in collaboration with UNICEF, this initiative prioritizes the development of children from birth to age eight, with a specific focus on the first 1,000 days of life. The policy is designed to harmonize national development goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), introducing a National Parenting Strategy to support caregivers and improve early learning and health protection systems across the country. On the local political front, efforts to enhance academic standards are being localized through initiatives like the 'Common Competitive Exams' in the Central Tongu District. Member of Parliament Gabby Alexander Hotordze recently announced this program for basic schools, targeting subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Integrated Science for students from Class 4 and above. This move coincides with infrastructure improvements, such as the new classroom block at Mafi-Seva donated by the NGO Adanu. Collectively, these developments—from the verification of political figures' credentials to the implementation of national and local reforms—underscore a period of intensive transformation and scrutiny within Ghana's educational sector.

Ghana Political Landscape: NDC Faces By-Election Defiance as Supreme Court Weighs Cannabis Regulations
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Ghana Political Landscape: NDC Faces By-Election Defiance as Supreme Court Weighs Cannabis Regulations

The political landscape in Ghana is witnessing a period of significant activity, marked by both a high-stakes by-election in Ayawaso East and a landmark legal challenge at the Supreme Court regarding the nation’s industrial cannabis framework. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has adopted a firm stance against internal dissent as it prepares for the upcoming polls scheduled for March 3, 2026. Simultaneously, the government faces scrutiny over its agricultural policies, with local farmers demanding more equitable access to the burgeoning hemp industry through legal action. In Ayawaso East, the NDC has sharply criticized former member Mohammed Umar Sanda for his decision to run as an independent candidate. Anthony Nukpenu, the Greater Accra Regional Organiser, has characterized Sanda’s campaign as a 'political suicide mission,' predicting that the defector will secure less than 2% of the total vote. To ensure a unified front, the NDC has expelled Sanda and warned its members that supporting his campaign will lead to immediate disciplinary action. The party remains focused on its endorsed candidate, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, aiming for a decisive victory of at least 75% to consolidate its legislative influence and demonstrate party loyalty. While the NDC manages its internal cohesion, a significant legal battle is unfolding in the Supreme Court. Mariam Alhassan, a farmer based in Techiman, has filed a suit challenging the government’s regulatory framework for industrial cannabis cultivation. The plaintiff alleges that current licensing fees and entry requirements are 'extortionate' and unconstitutional, effectively barring ordinary Ghanaians from participating in the legal hemp trade. The suit, which names the Ministry for the Interior and the Narcotics Control Commission as defendants, argues that these regulations violate the 1992 Constitution’s provisions for administrative justice under Articles 17, 23, 36, and 174. Alhassan is advocating for a tiered regulatory system that would allow smallholder farmers to access a market currently dominated by high-capital interests. These two developments reflect a broader tension in Ghanaian governance between centralized authority and individual participation. While the NDC asserts its authority to maintain political order in Ayawaso East, the Supreme Court case highlights a growing demand for economic inclusivity in new industrial sectors. As the March 3 by-election approaches and the legal proceedings progress, the outcomes will provide critical indicators of how Ghana’s political and legal institutions navigate the complexities of party discipline and economic justice.

Map showing US Navy vessels deployed in the Middle East, covering the eastern Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Arabian Sea, with Iran highlighted. Clusters of coloured dots indicate approximate vessel locations. Six red dots (destroyers) and a yellow dot (aircraft carrier) are shown off the coast of Israel, six more red dots, a yellow dot and two purple dots (combat ships) are shown near the UAE in the Arabian Sea, and two red dots and a purple dot are in the Gulf. Text at the bottom notes the locations show where vessels are thought to be operating not exact positions and that the vessels shown are known assets in the region in the week beginning 23 Feb. Source: US Naval Institute.
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Middle East Tensions Escalate as Israel Launches Strikes on Iran Amid Stalled Nuclear Talks with U.S.

The Middle East has entered a period of heightened volatility following a preemptive military strike by Israel against Iran and the breakdown of critical nuclear negotiations in Geneva. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced the "preventative attack" to eliminate immediate threats, prompting a state of emergency across Israel. This military escalation coincides with a stern warning from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed deep dissatisfaction with Tehran’s stance during recent diplomatic efforts. Trump stated he is "not thrilled" with the lack of progress toward a meaningful nuclear agreement, signaling a significant rift between the two nations after talks ended without a breakthrough. On the ground, the situation remains fluid and dangerous. Witnesses in Tehran reported hearing significant explosions, which were subsequently acknowledged by Iranian state television. Simultaneously, air raid sirens echoed throughout Israel as the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) warned the public of potential retaliatory missile strikes. The IDF has since imposed strict limitations on public life, including a ban on educational activities and large gatherings, while urging citizens to remain near protected spaces. These actions signify a sharp departure from regional stability as both nations brace for further hostilities following the Israeli strike. The diplomatic path appears increasingly narrow after the recent failure of the Geneva summit. While mediators from Oman reported minor progress, U.S. officials remain skeptical of Iran's commitment to curbing its nuclear ambitions. President Trump has emphasized that while he prefers a diplomatic solution, military intervention remains a viable option. In a show of force, the United States has mobilized significant military assets to the region, including aircraft carriers and thousands of additional troops. This buildup follows reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressing concerns over restricted access to Iranian enrichment sites, despite Tehran's claims of halting certain activities earlier this year. The international community has reacted with urgency to the dual threat of military conflict and failed diplomacy. Countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and China have updated their travel advisories, urging their citizens to evacuate Iran immediately. Further diplomatic maneuvers are expected as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares to visit Israel to discuss the security crisis and address Iran’s designation as a "state sponsor of wrongful detention." As the shadow of a broader regional conflict looms, the coming days will be critical in determining whether a return to the negotiating table is possible or if the cycle of preemptive strikes and military posturing will lead to an all-out war.

Mahama Issues Healthcare Directive and Defends Economic Policies in 2026 State of the Nation Address
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Mahama Issues Healthcare Directive and Defends Economic Policies in 2026 State of the Nation Address

President John Dramani Mahama delivered a pivotal 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) before Parliament on February 27, 2026, centering his final-year vision on radical healthcare reforms and industrial revitalization. The highlight of the address was a stern executive directive banning the 'no-bed syndrome' in Ghana's health facilities. Following the tragic death of Charles Amissah, a 29-year-old engineer who was rejected by three hospitals after an accident, the President mandated that all emergency patients must be admitted regardless of bed availability. Mahama characterized the rejection of emergency cases as an ethical failure and announced that the Ministry of Health is currently drafting stringent guidelines to penalize facilities that deny care. Addressing the nation’s economic landscape, the President defended the 'difficult but necessary' decision to set the cocoa producer price at GH""41,392 per tonne for the 2025/2026 season. While acknowledging the hardship this might impose on farmers, he argued that the cut is essential for the long-term stability of the industry. This economic focus extended to the energy sector, where Mahama announced that the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) is fully operational again after years of inactivity. He also detailed a new solar energy initiative targeting 350 public institutions to reduce operational costs, noting that the national electricity access rate has successfully reached 89.05%. On matters of governance and corruption, the President provided an update on the 'Operation Recover All Loot' (ORAL) initiative. While acknowledging public impatience regarding the slow pace of prosecutions, he emphasized the importance of due process and the rule of law to prevent wrongful convictions. The address also touched on the creative arts, with a ""20 million allocation each to the National Film Authority and the Creative Arts Agency. Furthermore, the President introduced the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Policy (GANRAP), which aims to add US$9.5 billion annually to national reserves through gold purchases. The address was met with significant political pushback as Minority MPs wore black to protest the cocoa price reductions. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and spokesperson Kojo Oppong Nkrumah urged the government to credit former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia for the Gold-for-Reserve policy and called for greater transparency in its management. The atmosphere in Parliament remained charged, with presidential staffer Beatrice Annan critiquing the Minority Leader's performance, though the day ended with lighthearted banter outside the chamber between political rivals Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and Rev. John Ntim Fordjour. As the administration moves into its final year, the focus shifts to the implementation of these directives and the public debate surrounding the government's economic recovery claims. Media outlets, including Joy Prime, have scheduled high-level debates to dissect the implications of the SONA, particularly the tension between industrial growth and the struggles within the agricultural sector. The coming months will determine if these policy shifts, especially the emergency healthcare reforms and GANRAP, will provide the intended economic and social stability.

Ghana Confronts Security Challenges at Home and Abroad Amid Growing Calls for Judicial Accountability
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Ghana Confronts Security Challenges at Home and Abroad Amid Growing Calls for Judicial Accountability

Ghana's political and security landscape is facing a dual challenge as government officials and security experts grapple with international conflict involvement and rising domestic maritime threats. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel O. Ablakwa recently revealed a heartbreaking statistic: at least 272 Ghanaians have been lured into the Russia-Ukraine war since 2022, with 55 confirmed dead. This comes as the broader conflict sees massive body exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, with over 1,000 remains repatriated recently. Domestically, the urgency for heightened security is mirrored in the maritime sector, where Ranking Member on Defence and Interior, John Ntim Fordjour, has demanded the immediate acquisition of offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) following a violent pirate attack on fishermen near Senya Beraku, warning that leadership gaps in the Defence Ministry could weaken national safety. The quest for justice remains a central theme across both local and international headlines. In Ghana, Alfred Kwame Tettey Ehiamah has petitioned authorities for an independent probe into the murder of his son, Anthony, alleging deep manipulation and procedural inconsistencies after prime suspects were reportedly granted bail without proper legal proceedings. Similarly, the Lagos State Judiciary has scheduled a coroner’s inquest into the death of the son of famed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, following allegations of medical negligence. On the global stage, Hillary Clinton provided six hours of testimony regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case, calling for former President Trump to be questioned under oath, while in the U.S., singer D4vd has been identified as a target in a grand jury investigation regarding the death of a 14-year-old girl whose remains were found in a vehicle registered to him. Amid these developments, institutional collaboration and ethical discernment are being championed as vital to national stability. Air Vice Marshal Joshua Lartei Mensah-Larkai of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has underscored the media's indispensable role in national security, advocating for a relationship built on trust and professional transparency. This call for integrity extends to the religious sector, where Rev Dr Ebenezer Markwei of Living Streams International has introduced the "Five Ms" framework—Money, Motive, Message, Morals, and Methods—to help the public navigate the rising tide of political prophecies and avoid being misled by spiritual leaders with questionable agendas. Beyond Ghana’s borders, international policy shifts and environmental disputes are shaping the regional outlook. The United States is reportedly expanding its refugee program to process 4,500 white South Africans monthly, a move contested by the South African government which disputes claims of persecution. Meanwhile, in Tunisia, legal battles continue over industrial pollution, as a court recently rejected a bid to halt operations at a major fertiliser plant despite community health concerns and reports of non-compliance. Together, these events underscore a complex period of transition where the demand for accountability, whether in the courtroom, the church, or on the high seas, remains the primary driver of public discourse.

Ghana’s Political Landscape: Local Governance Breakthroughs, Internal Party Tensions, and the Drive for Inclusive Representation
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Ghana’s Political Landscape: Local Governance Breakthroughs, Internal Party Tensions, and the Drive for Inclusive Representation

Ghana’s political arena has seen a flurry of activity, ranging from the resolution of local governance stalemates to high-stakes allegations of internal party sabotage. In Kumasi, the Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) successfully elected Patrick Kwame Frimpong as its new Presiding Member, ending a period of administrative uncertainty. After previous rounds of voting failed to produce a winner, Frimpong’s rival, Baffour Ofori, withdrew from the race to foster unity. Frimpong ultimately secured 58 out of 66 votes, a move that allows the assembly to resume its essential developmental and administrative functions without further delay. Simultaneously, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is intensifying its efforts for the upcoming March 3 by-election in Ayawaso East, where National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye is rallying support for candidate Baba Ali Yussif, citing his deep grassroots connections. While the party prepares for external contests, internal tensions have surfaced following the 2024 elections. Alhaji Ishaq Kyei Brobbey, an aspirant for the NPP Ashanti Regional Communications Director role, has alleged that certain high-ranking party members secretly funded John Dramani Mahama’s campaign against Mahamudu Bawumia. These claims of internal sabotage highlight a fractious period for the NPP as it navigates the aftermath of defeat. Conversely, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin recently showcased the positive side of party collaboration, publicly crediting Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh for his 2012 parliamentary victory. Afenyo-Markin revealed that 'NAPO' personally designed the campaign manual that secured his first win in Effutu, emphasizing that mentorship remains a cornerstone of political success in Ghana. Broader discussions on governance and national development are also gaining momentum. Stakeholders, including the UNDP and the Danish Embassy, are advocating for significant reforms to increase women’s participation in governance ahead of the 2027 local elections. Despite minor gains in Parliament, women’s representation in district assemblies remains a low 4.1%, far below the 30% target set for 2026. Proponents are calling for legislative quotas and better protections against political violence to create a safer environment for female candidates. This push for inclusivity is mirrored in the National Development Planning Commission’s (NDPC) recent stakeholder meeting, which focused on the 2026 Human Capital Development Strategy, aiming to align Ghana’s workforce with industrial transformation and precision quality standards. Reflecting on the historical roots of these political dynamics, veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr. recently highlighted the enduring influence of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, noting how even the ex-wife of rival J.B. Danquah, Mabel Dove, eventually joined Nkrumah’s CPP. This historical perspective serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of political loyalty in Ghana, a theme that remains relevant as today’s leaders navigate shifting alliances and internal power struggles. As the nation looks toward the 2026 and 2027 electoral cycles, the focus remains on whether these institutions can balance partisan interests with the broader goals of national development and inclusive governance.

Ghana Government Advances Key Economic and Digital Reforms Amid Growing Scrutiny Over Utilities and Resource Management
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Ghana Government Advances Key Economic and Digital Reforms Amid Growing Scrutiny Over Utilities and Resource Management

The Ghanaian government is pushing forward with several major policy initiatives aimed at stabilizing the economy and modernizing national infrastructure, though these moves have been met with significant calls for transparency from both the Minority in Parliament and independent experts. At the forefront of these developments is the approval of the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Policy (GANRAP 2026–2028). The policy aims to bolster the country’s foreign reserves by US$9.5 billion annually through the purchase of approximately 3.02 tonnes of gold weekly from local miners. However, Minority Spokesperson on the Economy, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has urged the government to be more candid with citizens, characterizing the program as a rebranding of existing initiatives and raising concerns over recent inconsistencies in the management of gold reserves, including the sale and subsequent repurchase of gold at fluctuating prices. Simultaneously, the energy sector is facing a crisis of consumer confidence as the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to resolve widespread complaints regarding the rapid depletion of prepaid units. While the ECG has attributed the accelerated credit loss to the high accuracy of newly installed smart meters, this explanation has been flatly rejected by Collins Adomako-Mensah, Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Energy Committee. He noted that nearly one million meters were installed by late 2024 without issue, and the sudden surge in complaints over the last month suggests a technical or billing anomaly rather than simple usage tracking. The Ministry of Energy has since ordered a full investigation into the matter to restore public trust. In the realm of natural resources and technology, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has moved to dispel rumors of mismanagement regarding equipment seized from illegal mining sites. He assured Parliament that all confiscated excavators are accounted for and announced the launch of a nationwide digital tracking system to monitor the importation and movement of heavy machinery, aimed at curbing the persistence of galamsey. Complementing this digital push, Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George announced the Cabinet’s approval of Ghana’s first National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy. The strategy, to be launched by President John Dramani Mahama, focuses on building local expertise and ensuring ethical oversight of emerging technologies to drive economic growth. Environmental and health concerns also remain a priority as a recent study by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) warned that Ghana loses over GHS 6.2 billion annually to sanitation-related diseases, which cause over 177,000 deaths and 31.9 million lost workdays each year. While the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) recently demonstrated a new Nano Copper technology to purify the Birim River of galamsey-related pollution, the intervention has been met with skepticism. Dr. Expor Anyimah-Ackah of the University of Education, Winneba, cautioned that visual water clarity does not necessarily mean the removal of toxic heavy metals, urging for greater scientific transparency regarding the nanomaterials used. Finally, the government has provided clarity on social and legal regulations, with Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak emphasizing that the legalization of cannabis is strictly limited to medicinal and industrial purposes. Despite the new regulatory framework under the Narcotic Control Commission Act of 2023, recreational use remains illegal, and enforcement agencies have been directed to maintain a strict stance against unauthorized cultivation. Collectively, these developments reflect a government attempting to balance ambitious economic targets and technological modernization with the complex realities of utility management and environmental protection.

Sophia Akuffo Defends DDEP Protests and Urges Greater Accountability in Governance
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Sophia Akuffo Defends DDEP Protests and Urges Greater Accountability in Governance

Former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has strongly defended her decision to join pensioners in picketing against the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) in early 2023, asserting that her actions were rooted in principle and a duty to speak out against unlawful government conduct. During recent appearances on Joy News' PM Express, Akuffo emphasized that she has no regrets about holding a placard at the Finance Ministry, stating, "You don’t sit there and just let unlawful things be done." She warned that the DDEP's bond "haircuts" have severely compromised the integrity of Ghana’s debt instruments, suggesting that the government’s long-term credibility is at stake as citizens and investors lose trust in future bond offerings. Beyond the DDEP, Akuffo has expanded her critique to broader issues of governance and national policy. She expressed concern over the ratification of extended oil agreements, particularly those set to expire in several years, warning that such moves could lock Ghana into costly and inflexible deals. She called for the mandatory inclusion of review clauses in future contracts to protect the country's interests. Additionally, the former Chief Justice challenged public policy think tanks to intensify their scrutiny of governance and constitutional reviews, praising the Institute of Economic Affairs for its proactive role while urging others to ensure that long-standing practices truly serve the public interest. While Akuffo remains critical of executive and policy decisions, she offered a nuanced view on the judiciary, dismissing claims of systemic corruption as being largely matters of public perception rather than reality. She argued that narratives of judicial "rot" often stem from weak legal cases and the influence of middlemen, rather than the judges themselves. However, her call for institutional integrity stands in stark contrast to reports of systemic failures elsewhere, such as a recent account from a senior Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) officer whose father was allegedly forced to pay a bribe to secure his rightfully earned pension benefits after a year of administrative delays. The broader landscape of administrative accountability in Ghana remains fraught with challenges, as highlighted by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ). Fati Mahami, a CHRAJ Sub-Regional Director, recently lamented the slow implementation of the Disability Act of 2006, noting that many public offices remain inaccessible to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). These issues of accessibility and corruption, alongside the recent controversy surrounding the DVLA’s pilot program for the diaspora, underscore a growing demand for transparency. Akuffo’s vocal stance serves as a catalyst for this movement, reminding public officials that ethical obligation and the protection of the vulnerable must remain at the forefront of national service.