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Ghana Politics News

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.

Reuters A police mini van with rubble on top of it, surrounded by several people
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Gaza Strikes: 32 Killed as Israeli Military Responds to Alleged Ceasefire Violations

At least 32 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed on Saturday during a series of intensive Israeli air strikes across the Gaza Strip. The attacks, described by local civil defense officials and international observers as the heaviest since a recent ceasefire agreement was established, targeted multiple locations including Gaza City and Khan Younis. The Israeli military confirmed the strikes, characterizing them as a necessary response to violations of the truce by Hamas. This resurgence of violence marks a significant breakdown in the fragile peace efforts initiated earlier this month, with both sides trading accusations regarding the breach of the ceasefire terms. The bombardment hit various targets, ranging from weapon storage facilities and military infrastructure to residential areas and shelters for the displaced. In one of the most devastating incidents, an air strike hit a tent sheltering displaced individuals in Khan Younis, resulting in the deaths of several members of the same family. Hamas authorities have condemned the strikes as "brutal," calling for immediate international intervention to halt the aggression. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) maintain that their operations are precisely targeted at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and responding to Hamas's failure to adhere to the established truce. This latest escalation comes against a backdrop of a deepening humanitarian crisis that has persisted since the conflict intensified in October 2023. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, the total death toll in Gaza has exceeded 71,660 people since the start of hostilities. The timing of the strikes is particularly critical, as they occurred just as the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border was reportedly preparing to reopen for humanitarian aid and the movement of people. The destruction of residential buildings and displacement camps further complicates the delivery of essential services to a population already suffering from extreme shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. International reaction has been swift, with mediators from Egypt and Qatar issuing urgent calls for restraint to prevent a total collapse of the diplomatic process. These nations have been instrumental in brokering previous pauses in the fighting and expressed concern that the renewed violence could lead to a wider regional escalation. As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the global community is facing renewed pressure to secure a more permanent resolution to the conflict and ensure the protection of civilians caught in the crossfire.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Secures Decisive NPP Flagbearer Victory, Vows Unity Ahead of 2028 Elections
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Secures Decisive NPP Flagbearer Victory, Vows Unity Ahead of 2028 Elections

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been officially declared the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) after securing a decisive victory in the party’s presidential primary. Garnering 110,643 votes, which represents 56.48% of the total valid votes cast, the former Vice President outperformed his closest rivals, including Member of Parliament Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who received 23.76% (46,554 votes), and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, who secured 18.53% (36,303 votes). Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo joined thousands of jubilant supporters at the party headquarters, hailing the results as a testament to Bawumia’s intellectual depth and governmental experience. The election, which involved over 211,000 delegates across 333 polling centers, was widely praised for its transparency and peaceful conduct. Following the declaration, Dr. Bawumia issued a clarion call for unity, urging his fellow contestants and party members to set aside internal factionalism to focus on the 2028 general elections. This sentiment was echoed by high-ranking party elders, including former Speaker of Parliament Prof. Mike Oquaye, who lauded Bawumia as the most impactful Vice President in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. Oquaye emphasized that Bawumia’s leadership in digitalization and economic reform—citing initiatives like the GhanaCard and Mobile Money Interoperability—positions him as a formidable challenger to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). In a show of political maturity, defeated candidates including Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum conceded defeat and pledged their full support to the new flagbearer-elect. Despite the atmosphere of celebration, the primary period revealed significant internal dynamics and minor controversies. Kobina Tahiru Hammond, former MP for Adansi Asokwa, detailed his refusal to support Kennedy Agyapong, citing offensive remarks regarding the suitability of Muslims for the presidency as a breaking point in their relationship. Meanwhile, the NPP leadership in the Effutu Constituency was forced to debunk allegations of delegate intimidation, labeling the claims as baseless. The election also sparked a debate regarding the role of religion in politics after Prophet Elbernard Nelson-Eshun apologized for a failed prophecy predicting an Agyapong victory. Critics, including Election Watch Ghana, urged a shift away from "banku-induced prophecies" toward science-based electoral analysis. A standout moment of civic dedication occurred in Assin South, where 37-year-old Frank Nti, a physically challenged delegate, crawled 30 meters over rough terrain to cast his vote, symbolizing the deep-seated commitment of the party's grassroots. Looking ahead, former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam warned the NDC to prepare for a "gallant" and aggressive campaign, asserting that the NPP is now consolidated and ready for a three-year mobilization effort. With the leadership transition complete, the NPP enters the next electoral cycle focused on an "Economic Reset" and strategic continuity, aiming to retain power in the 2028 national polls.

Prophet Fire Oja Defiant in Court Battle with Mzbel Over Alleged Defamatory Health Claims
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Prophet Fire Oja Defiant in Court Battle with Mzbel Over Alleged Defamatory Health Claims

Prophet Fire Oja appeared before a Ghanaian court on January 30, 2026, following a defamation lawsuit filed by popular singer Belinda Nana Ekua Amoah, better known as Mzbel. The case centers on allegedly false and harmful statements the prophet made regarding the singer's personal life and well-being. During the initial hearing, the court granted Fire Oja bail in the sum of GH¢50,000 as the legal proceedings officially commenced to address the conflict between the religious leader and the entertainer. The legal dispute was sparked by remarks Fire Oja reportedly made concerning Mzbel’s health status. Specifically, the prophet is alleged to have claimed that the singer had been hospitalized as a result of a distressing spiritual experience. Mzbel has categorically denied these assertions, describing them as entirely fabricated and damaging to her public image. She emphasized that the lawsuit is a necessary step to protect her reputation and hold the prophet accountable for the emotional and social impact of his public utterances. In a defiant stance following his court appearance, Prophet Fire Oja told members of the press that he has no intention of issuing an apology to the singer unless specifically ordered to do so by a court of law. His legal counsel has characterized the charges as a minor misdemeanor, expressing confidence in their defense strategy. The lawyer asserted that his client has committed no wrongdoing and is prepared to face the full extent of the legal process to vindicate his position. As the case moves forward, the outcome is expected to highlight the legal boundaries surrounding public commentary by religious figures on the personal lives of public figures. Mzbel remains firm in her pursuit of justice, stating that the protection of her name is paramount. With the GH¢50,000 bail secured, the next phase of the trial will determine whether the prophet's statements constitute actionable defamation, a verdict that will undoubtedly be watched closely by both legal experts and the public.

Prince Andrew Faces New Allegations of Sexual Encounter at Royal Residence Facilitated by Jeffrey Epstein
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Prince Andrew Faces New Allegations of Sexual Encounter at Royal Residence Facilitated by Jeffrey Epstein

A second woman has come forward with allegations that Jeffrey Epstein sent her to the United Kingdom in 2010 for a sexual encounter with Prince Andrew at his Royal Lodge residence. This marks a significant development in the ongoing Epstein scandal, as it represents the first time a survivor has alleged a sexual encounter took place within a British royal residence. According to the claimant's attorney, Brad Edwards—who represents more than 200 Epstein survivors—the woman, who was in her 20s and not a British citizen at the time, allegedly spent the night with the Duke of York before being given a private tour of Buckingham Palace the following morning. Edwards suggested that his client and Prince Andrew had established communication prior to her arrival in the UK, implying a degree of coordination. These new claims add a fresh layer of legal pressure on the Prince, who has consistently maintained his innocence and denied all accusations of sexual misconduct. The lawyer noted that he is currently evaluating the possibility of filing a civil lawsuit against the Prince on behalf of the woman. This potential legal action follows the high-profile case of Virginia Giuffre, which concluded in early 2022 with an out-of-court settlement estimated at £12 million, though that agreement did not include an admission of liability from the Prince. The fallout from the Epstein connection has already had profound consequences for Prince Andrew’s standing within the monarchy. Following the initial outcry and Giuffre’s lawsuit, King Charles III stripped his brother of his military titles and royal patronages in late 2022, effectively removing him from public duties and the use of the 'His Royal Highness' style. Attorney Brad Edwards commented that while the removal of these honors was a public acknowledgement of the controversy, it has not provided substantive justice for the survivors. He criticized the lack of a formal response to the new allegations, suggesting the Prince's silence continues to hamper the victims' path to closure. While Buckingham Palace has previously expressed sympathy for victims of abuse in general terms, it has not issued a specific rebuttal to these newest claims. Prince Andrew's legal communications have reportedly diminished since his formal titles were revoked. As the legal team for the survivors considers their next steps, the case continues to raise questions about the historical security and oversight at royal residences during the period Epstein was active. The potential for a new civil trial remains a significant threat to the Prince’s remaining ties to the royal institution and his ability to live a private life away from legal scrutiny.

Ghana Governance Update: CAGD Suspends Thousands of Salaries as Legal and Development Initiatives Take Center Stage
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Ghana Governance Update: CAGD Suspends Thousands of Salaries as Legal and Development Initiatives Take Center Stage

Ghana’s administrative and political landscape has seen a significant push toward accountability and local empowerment this week, marked by a massive cleanup of the public sector payroll and high-profile legal proceedings. In a major move to protect the public purse, the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) announced the suspension of salaries for 2,563 public sector workers effective January 2026. This decision follows a nationwide headcount exercise conducted in 2025 where the affected individuals failed to verify their employment status. According to a statement signed by Cephas N’Dosoo, Head of Public Relations at the CAGD, the action was taken upon the recommendation of the Auditor-General to enhance payroll integrity and eliminate ghost names from the wage system. Affected workers have been directed to contact the Ghana Audit Service for verification to have their salaries reinstated. Simultaneously, the Tema High Court has granted a GHC 500,000 bail to Prince Edwin Brem, a staff member of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), who is embroiled in a complex tugboat theft case. Brem is accused of defrauding by false pretenses and forgery after allegedly misrepresenting himself as a shipping company director to charter the vessel MV Ebenezer, valued at $500,000. Investigations revealed that the tugboat was subsequently moved to Guinea-Bissau and then ordered to The Gambia without authorization. While Brem has pleaded not guilty, the court has ordered him to report to the police weekly until the Case Management Conference resumes on April 8, 2026. On the legislative front, the Member of Parliament for Wa West, Peter Laanchen Toobu, has launched a vital agricultural intervention titled the 'Water is Wealth' initiative. Aimed at boosting food security and economic independence within his constituency, the project involves the distribution of 35 pumping machines to six farming groups, with a particular focus on empowering women’s cooperatives. By facilitating irrigation at the Siiru Dam Site, the initiative seeks to transition local farmers from subsistence reliance to productive dry-season farming, thereby increasing crop yields and local income. These developments collectively highlight a dual-track approach to national progress: a stringent focus on institutional accountability within the civil service and judiciary, alongside grassroots-level economic interventions by political leaders. As the CAGD works to finalize its payroll verification and the courts prepare for further hearings in the GPHA case, the success of local projects like those in Wa West underscores the ongoing efforts to balance fiscal discipline with community-driven development across the country.

Reuters A police mini van with rubble on top of it, surrounded by several people
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Gaza Death Toll Rises to 32 as Israeli Air Strikes Hit Shelters Amid Ceasefire Violations

At least 32 Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed in a series of Israeli air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Saturday. These attacks represent the heaviest bombardment since a recent ceasefire agreement, reportedly brokered with international involvement, came into effect earlier this month. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the strikes were a direct response to violations of the truce by Hamas, targeting weapon storage sites and commanders. However, local rescue officials and the Hamas-operated civil defense agency reported that the strikes hit various residential areas and shelters for displaced individuals, further complicating the fragile security situation in the region. Among the most devastating incidents was a strike on a tent sheltering a displaced family in Khan Younis, which resulted in the deaths of seven family members. In Gaza City, additional casualties included three children and two women, according to local authorities. Hamas has condemned the military actions, describing them as brutal and an aggressive escalation against the Gazan population. Both sides have traded accusations over who first breached the terms of the cessation of hostilities, which had briefly offered a reprieve to a population already reeling from intense conflict since the October 7, 2023, escalation. The international community has reacted with concern to the renewed violence. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar have urged both parties to exercise maximum restraint to prevent a total collapse of the current truce. The escalation comes at a sensitive time as the Rafah crossing into Egypt is slated to reopen for humanitarian aid following reports regarding the recovery of the last Israeli hostage. International observers note that the total death toll since the conflict's intensification in 2023 has now surpassed 71,660 Palestinians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry, which are generally accepted by global humanitarian organizations. The resurgence of air strikes highlights the extreme volatility of the peace process and the immense challenges facing diplomatic efforts. While Hamas has called for international intervention and specifically urged the United States to act, the continued exchange of fire suggests that a lasting resolution remains elusive. As residential buildings lie in ruins and the number of displaced persons continues to grow, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains at a breaking point, with future stability dependent on the adherence of both parties to negotiated agreements and the success of upcoming diplomatic engagements.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Secures Decisive NPP Presidential Primary Victory, Party Calls for Unity Ahead of 2028
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Secures Decisive NPP Presidential Primary Victory, Party Calls for Unity Ahead of 2028

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been officially declared the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) following a decisive victory in the presidential primary held on January 31, 2026. Securing 110,643 votes (56.48%), Bawumia comfortably defeated his closest rivals, including Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who garnered 46,554 votes (23.76%), and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, who received 36,303 votes (18.53%). Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo celebrated the win at the party headquarters, joining supporters in song and hailing Bawumia as a competent leader equipped to handle the nation's economic challenges. The election, which utilized an expanded delegate college involving over 211,000 voters across 333 polling centers, was widely praised for its transparency and peaceful conduct. Following the declaration, a significant wave of reconciliation swept through the party as defeated candidates, including Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, conceded defeat and pledged their full support to Bawumia. In his victory address, Dr. Bawumia issued a clarion call for unity, urging members to move past internal competition to focus on the 2028 general elections. Former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, further bolstered the candidate's image, describing Bawumia as the most impactful Vice President in Ghana’s history and the National Democratic Congress's (NDC) 'worst nightmare' due to his focus on digitalization and policy innovation, such as the GhanaCard and Mobile Money Interoperability. Despite the overarching theme of unity, the primary season was not without its controversies. Former MP Kobina Tahiru Hammond publicly explained his refusal to support Kennedy Agyapong, citing offensive remarks regarding the suitability of Muslims for the presidency. Meanwhile, Prophet Elbernard Nelson-Eshun of Spirit Life Revival Ministries issued a public apology after his prophecy that Agyapong would win proved incorrect, an incident that prompted Election Watch Ghana to urge a shift from spiritual predictions toward data-driven analysis. On the grassroots level, the election was marked by a powerful display of civic duty from Frank Nti, a physically challenged delegate who crawled 30 meters to cast his vote, symbolizing the deep-seated commitment of the party's base. With the primary concluded, the NPP has signaled an immediate transition into campaign mode for the 2028 elections. Former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam warned the NDC that the NPP is now 'solid' and prepared for a vigorous campaign focused on grassroots mobilization and an 'Economic Reset.' Campaign spokesperson Dennis Miracles Aboagye emphasized that the delegates' choice reflected a desire for strategic continuity. As the party prepares to 'break the eight,' the focus remains on aligning the NPP's traditional values with a digital-first economic approach to secure a historic third consecutive term in office.

Ghana Governance Update: CAGD Suspends Salaries for 2,500 Workers Amid New Agricultural Initiatives in Wa West
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Ghana Governance Update: CAGD Suspends Salaries for 2,500 Workers Amid New Agricultural Initiatives in Wa West

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has taken a significant step toward improving public sector wage integrity by suspending the salaries of 2,563 workers who failed to participate in a mandatory nationwide headcount. At the same time, local development efforts continue in the Upper West Region, where Wa West Member of Parliament, Peter Laanchen Toobu, has launched a major irrigation project titled "Water is Wealth" to bolster dry-season farming. Together, these developments highlight a dual focus on administrative accountability and grassroots economic empowerment within the Ghanaian political landscape. The salary suspension, announced on January 30, 2026, follows a comprehensive headcount exercise conducted throughout 2025 by the Ghana Audit Service. According to a statement signed by Cephas N’Dosoo, Head of Public Relations for the CAGD, the decision was based on recommendations from the Auditor-General to eliminate irregularities and "ghost names" from the government payroll. While general salaries for January 2026 have been processed for most public sector employees, the 2,563 individuals who failed to verify their employment status have been excluded. The CAGD has directed these affected personnel to undergo a rigorous clearance process with the Ghana Audit Service before their payments can be reinstated. In the agricultural sector, MP Peter Laanchen Toobu’s "Water is Wealth" initiative at the Siiru Dam Site represents a strategic push for regional food security and community support. The project involved the distribution of 35 pumping machines and various accessories to six distinct farming groups, with a specific focus on supporting women’s cooperatives and individual farmers. By providing these essential tools, the initiative aims to facilitate access to irrigation during the dry season, thereby increasing crop yields and providing sustainable livelihoods for constituents in Wa West. Mr. Toobu expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including government officials and local leaders, for their collaboration in making the project a reality. These two distinct events underscore the current priorities of the Ghanaian government and its representatives: maintaining fiscal discipline through payroll cleanup and driving rural development through direct investment in resources. The CAGD’s actions signal a continued commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward payroll fraud and systemic waste. Simultaneously, the "Water is Wealth" project demonstrates how local legislative intervention can bridge gaps in agricultural infrastructure. Moving forward, the affected public sector workers must navigate the verification process to secure their livelihoods, while the farmers of Wa West begin a new season with significantly enhanced capacity for year-round production.

Legal Battles Intensify: GPHA Official Granted Bail in $500k Tugboat Theft as Prophet Fire Oja Faces Defamation Suit
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Legal Battles Intensify: GPHA Official Granted Bail in $500k Tugboat Theft as Prophet Fire Oja Faces Defamation Suit

The Tema High Court has granted bail to Prince Edwin Brem, a staff member of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), in a high-stakes case involving the alleged theft of a tugboat valued at $500,000. Brem was admitted to bail in the sum of GHC500,000 with three sureties and is required to report to the police every Friday. This development comes as the court prepares for a Case Management Conference scheduled for April 8, 2026. The accused has pleaded not guilty to charges of defrauding by false pretences and forgery of stamps, marking a significant legal battle for the state-linked agency. The prosecution’s case against Brem alleges a complex scheme where he misrepresented himself as a director of a shipping company to charter the tugboat, MV Ebenezer, from the complainant, Kofi Kuwada. According to court records, once the charter agreement expired, Brem failed to return the vessel. Subsequent police investigations tracked the tugboat to Guinea-Bissau, with reports indicating it was later ordered to sail to The Gambia under Brem's unauthorized directive. This incident has raised serious questions regarding internal oversight within the GPHA and the security of critical maritime assets. In a separate but equally high-profile legal proceeding, Ghanaian religious leader Prophet Fire Oja has been granted bail of GH¢50,000 following his appearance in court on January 30, 2026. The prophet is facing a lawsuit filed by singer Mzbel, who accuses him of making defamatory statements regarding her health and personal life. Mzbel contends that the prophet’s claims of her being hospitalized due to a spiritual experience are entirely false and have caused significant damage to her public image and brand reputation. Following his court session, Fire Oja maintained a defiant stance, stating he would not offer an apology to Mzbel unless legally mandated by a court order. His legal counsel has characterized the charges as a minor misdemeanor, expressing confidence that they will provide a robust defense as the case proceeds. Conversely, Mzbel has emphasized that the legal action is a necessary step to protect her brand and clear her name from allegations she describes as malicious and damaging. These cases highlight a busy period for the Ghanaian judicial system, involving both the protection of state-linked economic assets and the enforcement of personal reputation rights. As the GPHA tugboat case moves toward its management conference in April and the defamation suit against Fire Oja continues, these proceedings are expected to draw significant public interest. They reflect broader societal concerns regarding accountability in both public service and the private sphere, underscoring the role of the courts in arbitrating high-stakes disputes.

Prince Andrew Faces New Allegations as Second Epstein Survivor Claims Sexual Encounter at Royal Lodge
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Prince Andrew Faces New Allegations as Second Epstein Survivor Claims Sexual Encounter at Royal Lodge

Prince Andrew is facing renewed legal and public scrutiny following allegations from a second woman who claims she was sent to the United Kingdom by the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for a sexual encounter with the Duke of York. The woman, who was in her 20s at the time and is not British, alleges that the encounter took place in 2010 at Royal Lodge, the Prince's private residence in Windsor. This development marks the first time an Epstein survivor has alleged that a sexual encounter occurred within a royal residence, adding a new dimension to the long-standing controversy surrounding the Duke's former associates. According to her lawyer, Brad Edwards—who also represented Virginia Giuffre in her high-profile case against the Prince—the woman spent the night at Royal Lodge and was subsequently given a tour of Buckingham Palace the following morning. Edwards has indicated that there were direct communications between his client and Prince Andrew prior to the alleged meeting. The attorney, who currently represents more than 200 Epstein survivors, emphasized that these specific details provide a concrete timeline that his legal team is currently investigating as they consider filing a formal civil lawsuit against the Duke. These fresh claims emerge over a year after Prince Andrew reached a multi-million pound settlement with Virginia Giuffre in February 2022, a deal estimated to be worth approximately £12 million. Although the settlement did not constitute an admission of guilt, the fallout led to significant consequences for the Prince’s standing within the monarchy. In late 2022, following the intense public backlash, King Charles III and the late Queen Elizabeth II stripped the Duke of York of his military affiliations and royal patronages, effectively removing him from public life. Edwards criticized the royal family's handling of the situation, suggesting that the removal of titles has not provided true justice or accountability for the victims involved. As the legal team evaluates its next steps, Prince Andrew continues to maintain his innocence, consistently denying any form of sexual misconduct or relationship with the accusers. Buckingham Palace has expressed sympathy for survivors of abuse but has largely refrained from commenting on these specific new allegations, maintaining a distance from the Duke's personal legal battles. The potential for a new civil lawsuit suggests that the Prince’s legal troubles are far from over, as survivors continue to seek accountability through the judicial system despite his withdrawal from official royal duties.

Reuters A police mini van with rubble on top of it, surrounded by several people
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Israeli Air Strikes Kill 32 in Gaza as Ceasefire Strains Under Mutual Accusations

At least 32 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed in a series of intense Israeli air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Saturday. These strikes represent the most significant escalation since a recent ceasefire was established earlier this month. The local civil defense agency, operated by Hamas, reported that the bombardment targeted multiple locations, including residential buildings and a tent sheltering displaced persons in Khan Younis, resulting in significant civilian casualties. The scale of the strikes has been described by local rescue officials as the heaviest since the start of the current truce period. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) defended the military action, asserting that the strikes were a direct response to violations of the ceasefire by Hamas. According to the Israeli military, the operations targeted Hamas commanders, weapon storage sites, and infrastructure used for militant activities. Conversely, Hamas officials condemned the attacks as "brutal" and "genocidal," accusing Israel of being the party responsible for breaching the agreement. Reports from Gaza highlight the devastating human toll of the weekend's strikes, including the deaths of a family of seven in Khan Younis and several children in Gaza City. This latest wave of violence occurs against the backdrop of a prolonged conflict that began following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Since the start of hostilities, the Hamas-run health ministry reports that over 71,660 Palestinians have been killed, a figure that international observers continue to monitor closely. The recent ceasefire had offered a brief respite for the region's embattled population, but the resumption of heavy aerial bombardment has once again heightened fears of a broader humanitarian catastrophe. International mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have renewed their calls for restraint from both parties to prevent a total collapse of the fragile peace process. Amidst the rising tensions, preparations are reportedly underway to reopen the Rafah crossing with Egypt to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The situation remains extremely volatile as both sides trade accusations over the collapse of the truce, while the international community remains focused on the urgent need for a sustained cessation of hostilities.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Elected NPP Flagbearer for 2028 Elections Following Decisive Primary Victory
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Elected NPP Flagbearer for 2028 Elections Following Decisive Primary Victory

In a historic internal election held on January 31, 2026, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the 2028 general elections. Dr. Bawumia, the former Vice President, secured a commanding victory with 110,645 votes, representing 56.48% of the total valid votes cast. The primary, which involved over 211,000 delegates across 333 polling centers, was widely described as peaceful and transparent. Following the declaration of results, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo joined jubilant supporters at the party headquarters, endorsing Bawumia as a competent leader equipped with the intellectual depth and experience necessary to address Ghana’s future challenges. The race saw notable performances from other prominent party figures, with Kennedy Ohene Agyapong securing second place with 46,554 votes (23.76%) and Dr. Bryan Acheampong finishing third with 36,303 votes (18.53%). In a significant show of political maturity and sportsmanship, all defeated candidates—including Agyapong, Acheampong, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyepong—publicly conceded and pledged their full support to Dr. Bawumia. Agyapong, who ran a vigorous campaign, accepted the verdict of the delegates and urged his followers to unite behind the new leader to ensure the party remains competitive in the national polls. Prominent party elders and officials have hailed the outcome as a turning point for the NPP. Former Speaker of Parliament Prof. Mike Oquaye praised Dr. Bawumia as the most impactful Vice President in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, citing his transformative work in national digitalization and economic reform as the opposition National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) "worst nightmare." Meanwhile, former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam warned the NDC to prepare for a "gallant" challenge, asserting that the NPP is now a unified force. However, the primaries were not without internal friction; former MP Kobina Tahiru Hammond revealed he withdrew support from Kennedy Agyapong over divisive remarks regarding religious eligibility for the presidency, highlighting ongoing discussions within the party about inclusivity. The election was also marked by moments of profound civic dedication and social controversy. Frank Nti, a 37-year-old physically challenged Polling Station Secretary, made headlines by crawling 30 meters on a rugged terrain to cast his vote, an act that drew widespread admiration and highlighted the importance of political inclusion. Conversely, the religious landscape was stirred as Prophet Elbernard Nelson-Eshun was forced to issue a public apology after his widely publicized prophecy—predicting a victory for Kennedy Agyapong—failed to materialize. This prompted calls from election observers for the public to prioritize data and science over spiritual predictions in the electoral process. Moving forward, Dr. Bawumia has issued a clarion call for unity, urging all factions to set aside internal differences and focus on the "Economic Reset" and national development. As the party transitions from internal competition to a national campaign, the focus shifts to grassroots mobilization and strategic policy innovation. With three years to prepare for the 2028 general elections, the NPP leadership aims to consolidate its base and leverage Bawumia’s track record in digitalization and economic management to secure a mandate for a third consecutive term in office.