Ghana News
Ghana News Live Blog: Catch up on Key Updates Throughout Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Welcome to your live roundup of the latest news from Ghana. Check back often as we add new developments throughout the day.
(Last updated: 7:00 pm on January 27, 2026. Check back for more stories.)
Pollster Mussa Dankwah Says He Is ‘Unshaken’ Ahead of NPP Presidential Primaries
NPP presidential aspirant Mussa Dankwah has declared that he remains steadfast and undeterred ahead of the party’s upcoming presidential primaries. Speaking to supporters, Dankwah emphasised his confidence in the campaign and rejection of any narratives suggesting he is wavering. He reiterated his commitment to engaging voters across the country and outlining his vision for the party’s future.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/im-not-shaken-mussa-dankwah-declares-ahead-of-npp-presidential-primaries/
Cyber Security Authority Detects WhatsApp Web Scam Targeting Mobile Money Users
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has uncovered a new scam on WhatsApp Web targeting mobile money (MoMo) users. The fraudulent scheme reportedly attempts to trick users into sharing sensitive financial data, potentially enabling unauthorised access to accounts. The CSA is urging the public to be vigilant and avoid interacting with suspicious links or requests for personal information.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/cyber-security-authority-uncovers-whatsapp-web-scam-targeting-bank-momo-users/
Charles Bissue Questions Kennedy Agyapong’s Leadership After 24 Years in Parliament
Veteran politician Charles Bissue has questioned why Kennedy Agyapong has not reached higher leadership roles despite his long tenure in Parliament. Bissue’s remarks came amid debates over Agyapong’s influence and effectiveness as a lawmaker after more than two decades of parliamentary service. The comments highlight internal conversations about leadership experience in Ghana’s political landscape.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/after-24-years-in-parliament-why-cant-he-lead-charles-bissue-on-kennedy-agyapong/
Government Tightens Grip on Illegal Mining, Now Tracking 1,033 Excavators
The government has significantly stepped up efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities, with authorities now tracking 1,033 excavators suspected of involvement in unlawful operations. The initiative forms part of broader policy measures to enforce mining regulations, protect the environment, and promote responsible resource extraction.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/1033-excavators-now-tracked-as-government-tightens-grip-on-illegal-mining/
Research in Accra Links Male Infertility to 70% of Childbirth Struggles
A new study conducted in Accra has found that male infertility is a contributing factor in 70% of couples’ struggles with childbirth, according to Dr. Sefogah. The research highlights the importance of including male reproductive health in fertility assessments and encourages broader clinical focus on both partners in couples facing conception challenges.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/research-in-accra-shows-70-of-couples-struggling-with-childbirth-due-to-male-infertility-dr-sefogah/
Ayawaso East NDC Primary: Baba Jamal Files to Contest, Says He’s ‘In to Serve’
Former Deputy Greater Accra NDC Chairman Baba Jamal has filed his nomination to contest in the Ayawaso East NDC parliamentary primary, asserting that his candidacy is driven by a desire to serve his constituents. Jamal highlighted his experience and commitment to party values as he begins his campaign for the seat.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ayawaso-east-ndc-primary-baba-jamal-files-to-contest-says-hes-in-to-serve/
Family of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings Denies Circulating Will as Fake
The family of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has categorically dismissed reports of a circulating will, labelling it as false and unauthorised. They emphasised that the purported document is not legitimate and urged the public to disregard it. The clarification aims to stem misinformation and respect the family’s privacy amid ongoing discussions online.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/family-of-nana-konadu-agyeman-rawlings-dismisses-circulating-will-as-false/
(Last updated: 8:30 am on January 27, 2026. Check back for more stories.)
One Dead, Several Injured in Violent Youth Clash in Winneba
At least one person has died and multiple others sustained injuries following a violent confrontation between two rival youth groups in Sankor, Winneba in the Central Region. Police say the clash, which occurred on 25 January, saw machete attacks and gunfire; several suspects have since been arrested. Authorities confirmed the death of a victim identified as Excoba and indicated that calm has been restored after intensified security operations.
🔗Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/one-dead-several-injured-in-violent-youth-clash-at-winneba/
Ghana, US Deepen Maritime Cooperation After Port Talks in Philadelphia
Ghana has taken steps to strengthen maritime and trade cooperation with the United States following high-level engagements at the Port of Philadelphia. The Ghanaian delegation, including Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie and Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith, discussed logistics, port operations, and opportunities to enhance Ghana’s export capabilities — particularly for cocoa and value-added products. Officials said insights from advanced port systems will help Ghana modernise its maritime infrastructure and support sustainable economic growth, including through the blue economy.
🔗 Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ghana-us-deepen-maritime-cooperation-after-philadelphia-port-talks/
(Last updated: 8:30 am on January 27, 2026. Check back for more stories.)
Kwabena Agyepong Says He’s Prepared for Either Outcome Ahead of NPP Contest
NPP presidential aspirant Kwabena Agyepong says he has mentally prepared himself for either victory or defeat in the New Patriotic Party’s internal presidential primary scheduled for 31 January 2026, dismissing the speculation driven by media polls. Agyepong told Joy News’ PM Express that politics should be approached without “illusions” and that emotional readiness for any result is key to a resilient campaign. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/im-ready-for-either-outcome-kwabena-agyepong-shrugs-off-polls-ahead-of-npp-contest/
Fire Rips Through Anwona Market in Kumasi, Second Blazer in Two Days
A significant fire swept through Anwona Market in the Kumasi Metropolis late Monday, destroying part of its structure and causing property losses barely 24 hours after another major blaze at mechanic shops in Sofoline. Eyewitnesses say the fire began near the market’s footwear section, where flammable materials are kept, and the Ghana National Fire Service remains on the scene working to extinguish the blaze and prevent further spread. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/fire-sweeps-through-anwona-market-in-kumasi-barely-24-hours-after-a-similar-incident-at-sofoline/
Amoabeng Says Leadership Must Go Beyond Pleasing People
Veteran business leader Prince Kofi Amoabeng cautioned that leadership isn’t about making people comfortable but also about enforcing discipline when necessary. In comments to Joy News, he said President John Mahama’s respectful and people-friendly approach must be matched with strength, including the ability to hold officials accountable, even if that means dismissing them. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/leadership-is-not-about-pleasing-people-amoabeng-warns-mahama-on-cost-of-being-too-nice/
Amoabeng: Nations Build Through Accountability, Not Affection
In a related statement, Amoabeng further stressed that accountability, not affection, is foundational to national development. Speaking on the Joy News AM Show, he argued that comfort and personal ties should not shield officials from consequences, advocating a culture where performance and responsibility are core to governance. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/you-must-be-ready-to-sack-people-amoabeng-says-accountability-not-affection-builds-nations/
Amoabeng Says Strong Judiciary Is Ghana’s ‘Last Hope’
Amoabeng also highlighted the central role of robust and trusted institutions in national progress, arguing that Ghana’s success hinges on the strength and independence of its judiciary. He contended that weak courts deter investment and stall development—even if leaders and economic policies are sound—as confidence in justice systems is fundamental to a functioning democracy and economy. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/without-a-strong-judiciary-nothing-works-amoabeng-says-ghanas-last-hope-is-institutional-power/
🏛️ Majority Blames NPP for Economic Distress, Defends Mahama Government
The Majority in Parliament, led by Mahama Ayariga, defended the Mahama administration’s economic recovery efforts while blaming the NPP for leaving behind a weakened financial sector, high inflation, and public service disruptions. The caucus also said it will pursue an audit of the controversial One District One Factory policy, calling it a failed initiative marked by corruption and limited youth job creation. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/majority-blames-npp-for-economic-distress-defends-mahama-governments-recovery-efforts/
Kwaku Kwarteng Praises Kennedy Agyapong’s Urgency and Leadership Potential
Kwaku Kwarteng, MP for Obuasi West, has backed Kennedy Agyapong as a standout contender in the NPP’s presidential primary, saying Agyapong’s urgency and readiness to tackle Ghana’s entrenched challenges make him especially suited to lead the country. Kwarteng described Agyapong as a disruptive force capable of addressing persistent national problems and helping Ghana transition to a stronger future. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/kennedy-agyapong-has-urgency-and-courage-to-lead-ghana-kwaku-kwarteng/
Check back for more stories.
Ghana News
Russian Embassy Criticized for “Empty” Statement on Viral Exploitation Videos involving Citizen
The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Ghana has issued a brief statement in the wake of widespread public anger and social media uproar over allegations that Russian nationals are luring young Ghanaian women into filmed sexual encounters for online distribution without consent.
The release posted on X on February 16, 2026, fails to condemn the alleged exploitation, non-consensual recording, and distribution of intimate material by its nationals.
“The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Ghana has taken note of the reports in the Ghanaian media on the alleged involvement of a supposedly Russian citizen engaged in sexual activities with some Ghanaian women and recorded those acts without consent,” the post read.
The response comes after days of viral outrage on X, TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups, where screenshots, testimonies, and alleged links to explicit content prompted hashtags such as #ProtectGhanaianWomen and #StopTheRussianScheme.
MP Sam George, chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children and Social Protection, has announced Ghana’s intent to pursue extradition if the primary suspect.
Responses on X
Responses to the post have been stronly worded. One person posted:
“Never trust those Russian scum. They throw African men into their war as cannon fodder & treat African women like disposable sex toys. Pure racist evil. Predators, not partners. WAKE UP AFRICA.”
Another asked:
“Any action taken?”
Another asked:
“So after taking the note, what next?”
Ghanaian authorities have disclosed they will pursue extradition proceedings against the man, said to have left Ghana.
The decision was announced by Member of Parliament Sam George on February 13, 2026, following weeks of public outrage over the alleged scheme.
According to Sam George — who chairs the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children and Social Protection — the suspect is believed to be a Russian national who used dating apps and social media to target young Ghanaian women, particularly students and professionals in Accra and other urban centres.
Victims were reportedly lured with promises of money, gifts or relationships, only to discover later that explicit videos were uploaded to adult websites and shared in private groups, often leading to blackmail, humiliation and threats.
A now-viral video purports to show the Russian national who previously gained attention in Ghana for controversial secret videos being arrested in Tokyo.
The video captures the man often identified in online reports by the username “Yaytsesl” being handcuffed and his rights being read to him by a Japanese law enforcement officer.
Arrest captured in partially verified video
The partially blurred footage circulating online shows Japanese police officers informing the man of his rights to remain silent in English while placing him under arrest.
In the video, officers say they had reviewed his online content before taking action.
The man is heard responding that he had never been arrested before and asking what personal items he would be allowed to bring.
The authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified.
Background: online activity linked to Ghana controversy
The suspect had drawn international attention after posting videos involving escapes with women in Kenya and Ghana that sparked widespread backlash.
The content allegedly included exploitative online material tied to vulnerable individuals, which triggered outrage among social media users and prompted calls for investigation.
Ghanaian authorities later confirmed they were aware of the situation and had initiated inquiries into the man’s activities while he was in the country. Officials indicated they were cooperating with international partners as part of broader investigations.
Reports from African and Russian media described the man as a self-proclaimed “pick-up artist” and online blogger in his 30s who travelled to Ghana and other African countries, where he allegedly recorded interactions with women without their knowledge.
Media outlets in both regions also alleged that he used sunglasses equipped with a hidden camera to capture some of the encounters and later shared the footage on social media, although authorities have not officially confirmed these claims.
Cross-border legal implications
Japanese police have not publicly disclosed the exact charges, but the arrest, if confirmed, highlights how digital activity can lead to international law enforcement action. Authorities reportedly acted after reviewing evidence linked to his online conduct.
The case has also sparked debate in Ghana about online exploitation, digital regulation, and the protection of vulnerable populations in the age of social media.
In Ghana, under the Cybersecurity Act 2020, the law punishes those who share nude photos or videos online, especially of women and children, often for revenge or blackmail.
Several Ghanaian traders are feared dead after a truck carrying tomato merchants from Ghana was attacked by suspected terrorists in Titao, Burkina Faso, on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
In an official statement issued on February 14, 2026, Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior and National Security described the incident as “disturbing,” reflecting the gravity of the situation, but kept its lips tight about casualties.
The release, signed by Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka (MP), stated that the vehicle transporting the traders was caught in the terrorist attack in the northern Burkinabè town of Titao, near the Ghana border.
“The Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is liaising with the officials of Burkina Faso to visit the attack site for details and identification of Ghanaians caught in the attack,” the statement read. “Further details would be communicated to the public.”
While no official casualty figures have been released by Ghanaian or Burkinabè authorities as of February 15, 2026, and the identities of those affected remain unconfirmed, reports on social media, where the news about the attack first broke, suggest at least seven of the traders hit have died.
The attack took place in a region of Burkina Faso that has seen frequent jihadist incursions by groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates operating in the Sahel.
Cross-border trade in agricultural goods, especially tomatoes, onions, and other perishables, is a major economic lifeline for communities on both sides of the Ghana-Burkina Faso frontier. However, escalating insecurity in northern Burkina Faso has increasingly disrupted commercial movements, raised insurance costs, and threatened livelihoods.
The Ministry’s prompt public communication reflects growing concern over the safety of Ghanaian nationals operating in volatile border areas. Ghanaian consular officials are expected to provide further updates as more information emerges from the joint site visit.
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