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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.

NPP Leadership Challenges Intensify Ahead of Presidential Primary
politics|

NPP Leadership Challenges Intensify Ahead of Presidential Primary

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares for its presidential primary on January 31, 2026, internal challenges and leadership critiques are coming to the forefront. Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member of the NPP, has voiced strong concerns regarding the party's current leadership strategy, advocating for a grassroots approach to rebuilding following the party's defeat in the 2024 elections. He warns that the existing top-down strategy could lead to further failures if local party members are not engaged effectively. In a related context, Joseph Osei Owusu, Chairman of the NPP Presidential Elections Committee, has called for a decisive leadership change, suggesting that the party should look to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for inspiration. He cites the leadership style of NDC's Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as a model for restoring order and discipline within the NPP, which he claims is currently suffering from a lack of cohesion. Meanwhile, a recent poll by Global Info Analytics indicates that former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the frontrunner in the upcoming primary, projected to secure 57% of the votes. The poll, which surveyed over 10,000 respondents, shows Bawumia leading significantly, particularly in the northern regions, while his competitors, Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, have varying levels of support in other regions. This data underscores the critical juncture the NPP finds itself at as it seeks to unify and strengthen its base ahead of the elections.

Political Turmoil and Violence: NPP's Internal Struggles and Election Day Shooting Investigation
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Political Turmoil and Violence: NPP's Internal Struggles and Election Day Shooting Investigation

The political landscape in Ghana is currently marked by significant challenges, including an ongoing investigation into a violent election-day shooting and internal strife within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Central East Regional Police Command is intensifying its search for a nomadic cattle herdsman linked to the December 2024 shooting, where unlicensed firearms were used. The prime suspect, Mujaheed Suraj, confessed to purchasing a weapon for GH₵4,000 from this herdsman, prompting police to focus on the illegal arms trade in the region. Authorities are urging community cooperation to report suspicious firearm activities as part of a broader operation to ensure voter safety in the Kasoa area. In parallel, the NPP is facing criticism from within its ranks as Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member, has publicly condemned the party's leadership for its ineffective top-down approach to rebuilding after its electoral defeat. He advocates for a grassroots strategy to unify the party ahead of the presidential primary scheduled for January 31, 2026. His remarks highlight the urgency for the NPP to engage its base effectively, especially with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia leading in polls for the upcoming 2028 elections. Additionally, Joy Prime will host a discussion on the NPP's peace pact and recent fuel price reductions, reflecting the party's ongoing efforts to address both political and economic issues in the country.

Concerns Mount as NYSC Orientation Begins Amid Rising Insecurity in Nigeria
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Concerns Mount as NYSC Orientation Begins Amid Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

The commencement of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation for the 2026 Batch A (Stream 1) has sparked significant anxiety among prospective corps members and their families due to escalating security threats in Nigeria. The orientation, set to begin on January 21, 2026, will mobilize approximately 650,000 graduates, with around 40% expected to participate in this stream. High-risk states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Borno, and Yobe are particularly concerning, as they have recently experienced a surge in bandit attacks and kidnappings. Despite assurances from NYSC officials regarding safety measures, many corps members express trepidation about the journey to their camps and the orientation itself, with about 8,000 corps members slated to attend in these volatile areas. Parents and local authorities are advocating for enhanced security protocols, including the strategic relocation of some orientation camps to safer zones. The National PTA president has called for increased collaboration between security forces and traditional leaders to ensure the safety of the corps members during this critical period. As the orientation approaches, the need for a thorough review of camp locations and security measures remains paramount to alleviate the fears of those involved.

Election Disputes in Uganda and NPP Peace Pact Highlight Political Tensions
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Election Disputes in Uganda and NPP Peace Pact Highlight Political Tensions

In recent political developments, two parliamentary candidates from Uganda's Kisoro District, Sam K Bitangaro and John Nizeyimana Kamara, have initiated legal proceedings for a recount of votes from the January 15, 2026 General Election. They allege significant irregularities in the counting process, including improper vote tallying and ballot stuffing, which have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The candidates have filed their applications at the Kisoro Chief Magistrate's Court, invoking Section 74 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which permits recounts when doubts about the results arise. The court is expected to rule on the matter soon, amidst growing scrutiny of the elections due to multiple allegations of misconduct. In a separate but equally significant political context, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana has underscored the importance of a peace pact among aspirants of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during a signing ceremony for the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for January 31. Akufo-Addo emphasized that the peace pact is a binding moral obligation aimed at ensuring unity and stability within the party. He urged all candidates to respect the democratic process and prioritize collective strength over individual ambitions, reinforcing that the NPP's success relies on cohesion and support for the eventual winner. These events reflect the ongoing political dynamics in both Uganda and Ghana, highlighting the critical importance of electoral integrity and party unity in maintaining democratic processes.

Ayawaso East By-Election: Hajia Amina Adam to Contest as NDC Prepares for Primaries
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Ayawaso East By-Election: Hajia Amina Adam to Contest as NDC Prepares for Primaries

Hajia Amina Adam, the widow of the late Ayawaso East MP Mahama Naser Toure, has officially declared her candidacy for the upcoming parliamentary by-election scheduled for March 3, 2026. Her decision follows strong encouragement from constituents and local leaders who wish for her to continue her late husband's legacy. Despite the personal grief she faces, Amina Adam expressed her commitment to serving the community and addressing the needs of her constituents. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is also gearing up for its parliamentary primary elections, which will take place on February 7, 2026. Nomination forms for candidates will be priced at GH¢50,000, with a filing fee of GH¢40,000. This by-election is significant as it reflects the party's efforts to maintain its influence in the Ayawaso East constituency following the loss of its representative. In related political news, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former Tourism Minister, has publicly supported Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's candidacy for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership. Mercer praised Bawumia's vision, competence, and integrity, highlighting his innovative contributions to digitalization and economic reforms, which have garnered support from various party leaders as the NPP prepares for the 2028 elections.

Akufo-Addo Calls for Unity Among NPP Aspirants Ahead of Presidential Primaries
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Akufo-Addo Calls for Unity Among NPP Aspirants Ahead of Presidential Primaries

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to treat the recently signed peace pact as a binding commitment to unity and respect during the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2024. Speaking at a signing ceremony in Accra, Akufo-Addo emphasized that the peace pact is not merely a formality but a serious obligation that all candidates must honor. He called on aspirants to conduct themselves with dignity and to accept the election results graciously, prioritizing party cohesion over personal ambitions. The former President reiterated that the collective strength of the NPP is far greater than that of any individual member, highlighting the importance of supporting the eventual winner to maintain unity within the party. This initiative aims to foster a peaceful electoral environment as the party prepares for its primaries, reinforcing the need for solidarity among its members.

Bawumia Endorsed as NPP's Best Hope for 2028 Elections Amid Calls for African Unity
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Bawumia Endorsed as NPP's Best Hope for 2028 Elections Amid Calls for African Unity

Former Tourism Minister Andrew Egyapa Mercer has publicly endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the strongest candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2028 general elections. In a series of interviews, Mercer emphasized Bawumia's national appeal, political experience, and leadership qualities as critical advantages for the party. He noted that Bawumia's credibility and trust among voters, cultivated through years of public service, are essential for electoral success. Mercer highlighted that over 100 former NPP parliamentary candidates support Bawumia's leadership bid, showcasing a growing coalition rallying behind him. Mercer also praised Bawumia's vision and competence, asserting that his ideas on digitalization and economic reform reflect a clear understanding of contemporary challenges. This endorsement comes as the NPP prepares for a competitive election cycle, with Mercer expressing confidence in Bawumia's ability to unite the party and appeal to a broad electorate. In a related political discourse, former President John Dramani Mahama urged African leaders to prioritize skills development, regional cooperation, and domestic production to enhance global competitiveness. Speaking at the Accra Reset Davos Convening, Mahama warned that Africa risks falling behind if it does not innovate and invest in education aligned with economic demands. He called for collaboration among African nations to establish manufacturing hubs and improve infrastructure, linking these efforts to better governance and increased investor confidence. Mahama's remarks underscore the importance of unity and proactive measures in addressing the continent's challenges.

Mahama Advocates for Skills and Unity in Africa Amidst Bawumia's Rising Popularity in NPP Race
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Mahama Advocates for Skills and Unity in Africa Amidst Bawumia's Rising Popularity in NPP Race

In a recent address at the Accra Reset Davos Convening, former President John Dramani Mahama urged African leaders to prioritize skills development, regional cooperation, and local production to enhance the continent's competitiveness in the global economy. Mahama warned that without innovation and a focus on education aligned with modern economic demands, Africa risks losing the support of its youth. He advocated for investments in digital skills, green energy, and manufacturing capabilities, emphasizing the need for stronger regional integration and collective negotiation on global economic issues to boost Africa's influence. Furthermore, he highlighted the urgency of reducing dependency on external suppliers by increasing domestic production of essential goods, linking these reforms to improved governance and investor confidence. In a separate political development, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, a former MP, has predicted that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will secure nearly 70% of the votes in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential race. Mercer attributed Bawumia's anticipated success to his strong grassroots support and accessibility, suggesting that such a victory could significantly bolster the party's position ahead of the 2028 general elections. This prediction comes at a time when the NPP is gearing up for internal elections, with Bawumia emerging as a prominent candidate.

Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna: Community in Fear as Bandits Demand Motorcycles
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Mass Abduction of Worshippers in Kaduna: Community in Fear as Bandits Demand Motorcycles

In a shocking incident on January 18, 2026, the Kurmin Wali community in southern Kaduna witnessed the mass abduction of 177 Christian worshippers during a coordinated attack on multiple churches. This marks the second such attack in just a week, leaving the community paralyzed with fear and prompting residents to flee their homes, leading to abandoned farms and closed schools. Initial reports from local authorities dismissed the incident as mere rumors; however, police later confirmed the abduction, highlighting the ongoing security crisis in the region. Survivors recounted how armed men stormed the churches during worship, forcing congregants into the forest. Rather than demanding a monetary ransom, the assailants have requested the return of motorcycles lost during recent military operations against bandit camps. Military sources suggest that this abduction may be a retaliatory act by bandits fleeing intensified military efforts in nearby areas. Community leaders are now calling for urgent government intervention to ensure the safe return of the victims and to enhance local security measures, as fears persist among residents who feel increasingly vulnerable amid ongoing violence.

Interior Minister Attributes Successful Security Services Recruitment to Digital Reforms
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Interior Minister Attributes Successful Security Services Recruitment to Digital Reforms

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has credited significant digital reforms for the successful recruitment process of internal security services. During his visit to the Prisons Borstal Recruitment Screening Centre in Accra, he highlighted that these reforms were necessary due to previous recruitment flaws, including corruption and irregularities such as the sale of recruitment slots. The new fully digital recruitment cycle enhances transparency, fairness, and efficiency, effectively eliminating past exploitative practices. Mubarak emphasized that the comprehensive digital approach allows for improved communication with candidates and a more orderly recruitment process overall.

COPEC and COMAC Clash Over Star Oil's Fuel Price Advocacy
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COPEC and COMAC Clash Over Star Oil's Fuel Price Advocacy

Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has publicly criticized the treatment of Star Oil Limited following the company's advocacy for fuel price reductions. Amoah argues that the backlash against Star Oil highlights significant flaws in Ghana's petroleum pricing framework, particularly the current price floor policy, which he believes should be replaced with a price ceiling to better manage excessive pricing by oil marketing companies. He described the industry's reaction as unjust and harmful to Star Oil's corporate image, especially after the company suspended its membership in the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) due to dissatisfaction with how its concerns were represented. In response, Dr. Riverson Oppong, CEO of COMAC, denied allegations that the chamber is targeting Star Oil. He clarified that COMAC's policies aim to protect industry practices and ensure fair representation for all members. Dr. Oppong emphasized that the chamber is committed to constructive dialogue and is currently collaborating with the National Petroleum Authority to evaluate the effectiveness of the price floor policy. He announced that COMAC would issue a public statement to clarify its position and update stakeholders on ongoing discussions regarding compliance and pricing strategies.

NPP Prepares for Presidential Primaries: 211,849 Delegates to Vote Under EC Oversight
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NPP Prepares for Presidential Primaries: 211,849 Delegates to Vote Under EC Oversight

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is gearing up for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, with 211,849 delegates expected to cast their votes at 333 polling centers across 276 constituencies. Polling will commence at 7:00 AM and conclude at 2:00 PM. Joseph Osei Owusu, the NPP Chairperson, has confirmed that all preparations, including security measures and voting regulations, are in place, with the Electoral Commission (EC) overseeing the election to ensure a credible process. Notably, proxy voting has been abolished to enhance the integrity of the election. Five candidates are vying for the nomination: Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum. In recent interviews, Osei Owusu emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the internal election process. He reassured candidates that the election committee has established clear rules, which were communicated to all participants, including those unable to attend meetings. He highlighted the committee's collaboration with the EC to handle voting logistics and security arrangements, which has helped build confidence among candidates. Despite some concerns regarding specific polling stations, Osei Owusu noted that most participants are satisfied with the election preparations. His return to party duties has also been credited with restoring trust and cohesion within the NPP during this critical period, reflecting his commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process amidst internal challenges.