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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.

Government and NGOs Urged to Support Youth in Agriculture Amid Planned Power Outage in Cape Coast
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Government and NGOs Urged to Support Youth in Agriculture Amid Planned Power Outage in Cape Coast

In a recent commentary, Dr. Andrews Idun has called on the Ghanaian government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to bolster youth entrepreneurship in agriculture through financial support and capacity-building initiatives. He argues that mere awareness and training are inadequate to engage young people in farming, citing a study indicating that few participants from agricultural training programs actually pursue careers in agriculture without tangible support. The AgTractive Campaign, launched by the Ministry of Youth Development, aims to inspire youth by showcasing agricultural innovators and promoting modern agritech solutions. Dr. Idun recommends that financial incentives, improved infrastructure, and comprehensive training—including business strategies and mentorship—are essential for enhancing agricultural initiatives. In a related development, residents of Cape Coast will experience a planned power outage on January 8, 2026, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. This outage is necessary for the replacement of a major transformer at the Cape Coast Substation, which will upgrade the existing 33MVA transformer to a new 66MVA unit. Richmond Rockson from the Ministry of Energy has assured the public that efforts will be made to minimize disruption, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving the electricity transmission network to meet growing demand. Both initiatives highlight the importance of infrastructure and support systems in fostering development in Ghana, whether in agriculture or energy supply.

Dombo Family Denies Endorsement of Bryan Acheampong Amid NPP Primaries
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Dombo Family Denies Endorsement of Bryan Acheampong Amid NPP Primaries

The Dombo family has firmly rejected claims that they endorsed Dr. Bryan Acheampong in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership contest, labeling these reports as "palpable falsehoods". In a statement released on January 6, 2026, the family reaffirmed their long-standing support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, criticizing the misleading nature of the claims and the publication "United in Truth" for lacking credible sources. They emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, particularly as the NPP prepares for its primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026. In a related development, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has issued a warning to the NPP leadership to manage their supporters effectively to prevent harassment of journalists during this politically charged period. GJA President Albert Dwumfour highlighted that political rivalry should not justify any form of violence or intimidation against the media, following an incident where a journalist was reportedly assaulted while covering a market fire incident at Kasoa. The GJA's call for restraint underscores the need for a respectful political environment as the party gears up for its internal elections.

President Mahama's First Year: Infrastructure Development, Anti-Corruption Efforts, and Environmental Challenges
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President Mahama's First Year: Infrastructure Development, Anti-Corruption Efforts, and Environmental Challenges

In his first year in office, President John Mahama has made significant strides in infrastructure development, anti-corruption measures, and addressing environmental challenges in Ghana. Announcing the commencement of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway construction, Mahama emphasized the project as a cornerstone of his government’s infrastructure agenda, backed by a $13 billion investment in the Big Push Program for 2023 and an allocation of $30.8 billion for 2026. This expressway aims to alleviate traffic congestion between Ghana's two largest cities and is set to begin construction early this year. Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, a political scientist, praised the Mahama administration for its low levels of corruption during its first year, a notable improvement compared to previous governments. He urged the administration to maintain transparency and enhance anti-corruption initiatives to build public trust. However, he also warned that the government's handling of illegal mining, or galamsey, poses a significant political risk. Despite government interventions, including military operations, the lack of prosecutions and ongoing pollution of water bodies remain pressing concerns, particularly in the Central Region. Amid these challenges, the government faces unrest among unpaid nurses and midwives, who have received payment for only one month after nearly a year of service. Labour consultant Austin Gamey advised against protests, advocating for patience and constructive engagement to resolve the salary crisis. Meanwhile, Mahama commended the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources for progress in combating illegal mining, citing early signs of environmental recovery, such as the clearing of polluted rivers. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by enforcement teams and called for sustained efforts in sustainable mining practices and environmental protection.

Debate Intensifies Over Ghana Gold Board's Licensing and Smuggling Efforts
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Debate Intensifies Over Ghana Gold Board's Licensing and Smuggling Efforts

In recent discussions surrounding the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), significant concerns have emerged regarding its licensing practices and effectiveness in combating gold smuggling. The Gold Board has defended its decision to grant an aggregator license exclusively to Bawa Rock Company Limited, asserting that it is not a monopolistic move but rather a compliance measure to secure state funds. According to the board, Bawa Rock was the only applicant that met the stringent financial requirements, including a minimum working capital of $2 million, out of 31 applications received. The board maintains that its four-tier licensing system allows for various buyers to participate, thereby encouraging competition in the gold purchasing market. Conversely, a heated debate aired on ChannelOne TV featured policy analysts Bright Simons and Senyo Hosi, who clashed over the Gold Board's role in addressing gold smuggling. Simons criticized the board's effectiveness, claiming that smuggling remains rampant despite arrests, while Hosi pointed to recent export figures as evidence of progress. The debate highlighted the ongoing concerns about data transparency and the real impact of existing regulations on smuggling activities in Ghana's gold sector. As the Gold Board continues to face scrutiny, the dialogue around its policies and their implications for the industry remains critical.

Nicolás Maduro Claims Kidnapping During First Court Appearance in NYC
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Nicolás Maduro Claims Kidnapping During First Court Appearance in NYC

Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader, made a dramatic appearance in a New York City courtroom following his arrest by U.S. forces at his compound in Venezuela. During the arraignment, Maduro described his situation as being "kidnapped" and asserted his identity as the president of Venezuela. He and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty to serious charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy and possession of machine guns. The couple, dressed in jail attire, displayed calmness despite emotional reactions from the audience. The presiding judge urged Maduro to concentrate on the proceedings, while he maintained his innocence. Both Maduro and Flores will remain in federal custody without bail until their next court hearing scheduled for March 17.

Justice Delayed: South Africa's Legal System Faces Overwhelming Backlog
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Justice Delayed: South Africa's Legal System Faces Overwhelming Backlog

In South Africa, the legal system is grappling with a severe backlog of cases, leaving families like that of Jason Pretorius in a state of uncertainty and frustration. Pretorius has been waiting for over two years for the trial of his mother's alleged killer, who died in May 2023 from injuries sustained in a suspected act of gender-based violence. The judiciary is critically understaffed, with approximately 250 judges serving a population of over 60 million, leading to trial dates being set as far as four years into the future. Reports indicate that the backlog could be as high as 100,000 cases, severely undermining public faith in the justice system. Advocacy groups highlight the emotional and financial toll on victims' families, while government officials acknowledge the crisis and promise reforms. However, critics argue that the system is fundamentally broken, risking a broader erosion of trust in justice delivery across the nation.

Political Tensions Rise as Mahama Promises Salary Reforms Amid Third Term Controversy
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Political Tensions Rise as Mahama Promises Salary Reforms Amid Third Term Controversy

In a significant political development, President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to review the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) and pension reforms to address the concerns of public sector workers. Speaking at the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) 54th National Delegates Congress in Accra, Mahama acknowledged the challenges with the current salary system, which was introduced during the Kufuor administration. He emphasized the importance of better remuneration and promised to collaborate with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) to enhance workers' pay and reassess pension structures for a more secure retirement. Rev. Isaac Owusu of GNAT echoed this sentiment, urging for immediate reforms to align salaries with the government's Resetting Agenda, asserting that motivated teachers are crucial for improved educational outcomes. However, Mahama's political landscape is fraught with controversy as the Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Movement Ghana (ADAM-GH) has filed a Supreme Court suit against him, alleging intentions to run for a third term. The suit argues that the constitution limits presidential terms to two, whether consecutive or not, and seeks to quell growing speculation about Mahama's ambitions. This legal action has sparked criticism from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who accuses Mahama of attempting to influence the judiciary to facilitate his potential bid. Adding to the political dynamics, Kwame Pianim, a prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), praised Mahama's engagement with teachers at the GNAT conference, humorously warning that such positive interactions could lead to Mahama securing up to 80% of teachers' votes, which could pose a significant challenge for the NPP in upcoming elections. Pianim's comments highlight the delicate balance of support within the educational sector as political tensions continue to rise.

Uganda Implements Restrictions Ahead of January Elections Amid Rising Tensions
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Uganda Implements Restrictions Ahead of January Elections Amid Rising Tensions

As Uganda approaches its January 15 elections, the government has enacted significant restrictions, including a ban on live broadcasts of riots and unlawful processions. This decision, announced by the Ministry of Information, aims to prevent potential violence and panic as President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his 40-year rule. In the lead-up to the elections, hundreds of opposition supporters have been detained, with human rights organizations accusing security forces of a brutal crackdown against supporters of opposition leader Bobi Wine. Previous elections have seen deadly violence, with over 50 casualties reported during similar crackdowns. In a related development, Ugandan authorities have denied rumors of a planned internet shutdown during the elections, reassuring voters that connectivity will remain stable. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) confirmed there are no intentions to disrupt internet services, despite recent restrictions imposed by Starlink. In response to concerns about communication disruptions, the National Unity Platform has introduced an offline vote-monitoring app. However, Amnesty International has reported ongoing intimidation tactics employed by security forces against opposition supporters, raising alarms about the electoral environment as tensions escalate ahead of the vote.

Tributes Pour In for Late Ayawaso East MP Naser Toure Mahama
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Tributes Pour In for Late Ayawaso East MP Naser Toure Mahama

Naser Toure Mahama, the 60-year-old Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, has passed away on January 4, 2025, after being hospitalized at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Mahama, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), had been serving in Parliament since 2012 and was in his fourth term. He held the position of Vice Chairman of the Energy Committee and was also a member of the Roads and Transportation Committee, recognized for his commitment to public service. Born on March 17, 1965, in Nima, Accra, Mahama was well-educated, holding a Master’s in Business Administration from Doshisha University in Japan. He is survived by his wife and two children. His burial is scheduled for January 5, 2026, in accordance with Islamic traditions. Colleagues and constituents have expressed their condolences and shared tributes honoring his legacy and contributions to the community.

Nicki Minaj's Political Transformation: From Trump Critic to Supporter
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Nicki Minaj's Political Transformation: From Trump Critic to Supporter

Nicki Minaj has undergone a significant political transformation, shifting from a vocal critic of Donald Trump's policies to a supporter, recently praising him and Vice President JD Vance at the AmericaFest convention. In the past, Minaj openly criticized Trump's anti-immigration stance, expressing empathy for immigrant children and highlighting issues such as family separations at the border. However, her recent comments, where she referred to Trump as 'handsome,' mark a stark departure from her previous views, leading to mixed reactions from her fan base. This change in alignment has surprised many, particularly given her earlier stance against Trump's policies. During the pandemic, Minaj began to embrace themes associated with the MAGA movement, including anti-vaccine sentiments, which further distanced her from her previous political positions. The rapper's shift has not only sparked backlash from some fans, who are distancing themselves due to her newfound political ties, but it has also coincided with her decision to halt the release of her planned album for March 2026, suggesting a potential pivot in her career focus towards political engagement.

Government Initiatives to Boost Local Development and Economy in Ghana
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Government Initiatives to Boost Local Development and Economy in Ghana

In a bid to enhance local development and economic growth in Ghana, key government officials have proposed significant initiatives aimed at empowering communities and improving market infrastructure. Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader in Parliament, has called for an increase in the allocation of national revenue to the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). Speaking at the Azuko Festival in Sirigu, he emphasized the importance of grassroots development, stating that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are crucial in addressing local needs. Ayariga praised the current policy of directing 80% of DACF allocations to district assemblies, which has reportedly improved their financial capabilities, leading to job creation and poverty reduction. In a complementary effort, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, introduced a new 24-hour market initiative designed to bolster local economic development. This program aims to increase income for traders, particularly benefiting youth and women, while also enhancing urban sanitation and safety. Key features of the initiative include extending trading hours, upgrading market facilities, implementing CCTV systems for security, and promoting digital payment methods. Ibrahim highlighted the necessity for collective commitment from all stakeholders, including traditional authorities and the private sector, to ensure the success of this program and foster unity in leveraging chieftaincy and religion for national development.

Global Reactions to US Military Operation and Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro
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Global Reactions to US Military Operation and Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro

In a dramatic turn of events, U.S. forces successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife during a covert military operation named "Operation Absolute Resolve" on January 3, 2026. The operation involved extensive planning by elite U.S. troops and intelligence agencies, including the CIA, and was marked by airstrikes on military targets in Caracas. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela until a proper political transition is established, raising concerns about international law and sovereignty. Ghana's Minister of Communication, Samuel Nartey George, expressed apprehension about the implications of the U.S. intervention, drawing parallels to previous international crises in Libya and Iraq. He highlighted the potential violation of Venezuela's sovereignty and questioned the legality of the military action. Global reactions have been mixed; while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer showed no remorse for Maduro's capture, leaders from Latin America, Russia, and China condemned the U.S. actions as unacceptable aggression and violations of international law. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also voiced deep concern over the situation. The Pentagon had increased military presence in the region prior to the operation, which culminated in Maduro's capture amid heavy fire, with U.S. forces sustaining no major casualties. Trump later shared a photo of Maduro in custody aboard the USS Iwo Jima, marking a significant military achievement for the U.S. government. However, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer criticized the lack of congressional authorization for the military action, adding to the controversy surrounding the operation.