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Ghana News Live Blog: Key Updates Throughout Wednesday, January 21, 2026

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Stay tuned for more developments from Ghana and around the world as events continue to unfold. Below are the latest summarized news briefs:


Ken Ofori-Atta’s US Immigration Case Adjourned to April 27

The immigration proceedings involving Ghana’s former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta have been adjourned until April 27, 2026, as his case continues in the United States. The hearing in Virginia concerned his immigration status following detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after his visitor visa was revoked. The adjournment follows an initial bond redetermination and preliminary review, with Ofori-Atta remaining in custody at the Caroline Detention Centre as legal teams prepare for the next session.
🔗 Full story: https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/ken-ofori-attas-us-immigration-case-adjourned-to-april-27.html


US Judge Demands Proof of Extradition as Ofori-Atta Stays in ICE Custody

A U.S. federal judge has ordered evidence of any extradition request from Ghana before considering its relevance to the ongoing immigration detention of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. During a private hearing on January 20, the judge declined to immediately address extradition amid a bail application, saying that no formal documentation had been presented. The court directed the U.S. government to submit proof of an extradition request by February 19, 2026. Ofori-Atta will remain in ICE detention pending the next hearing on April 27.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/us-judge-demands-proof-of-extradition-as-ofori-atta-stays-in-ice-detention/


Family Seeks Justice After Ex-NPP Parliamentary Candidate Allegedly Stabs Wife in the US

The family of a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate has called for justice following an alleged stabbing incident in the United States. According to reports, the former candidate is accused of stabbing his wife during a domestic dispute, prompting legal and community concern. Authorities continue to investigate the matter, with family members urging a thorough and transparent judicial process.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/family-demands-justice-after-ex-npp-parliamentary-candidate-allegedly-stabs-wife-in-us/


JUSAG Calls Off Planned Strike After Government Engagement

The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has suspended its intended indefinite strike over unpaid salary arrears after the government responded to key concerns. The action, initially planned to begin on January 19, 2026, was aimed at addressing arrears owed to judicial service workers. Following talks, the association agreed to halt the strike while negotiations continue.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/jusag-suspends-intended-strike-as-government-responds-to-concerns/


Protests at US Embassy Won’t Expedite Ofori-Atta’s Return — Lawyer

Despite demonstrations outside the U.S. Embassy in Accra calling for the return of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, his lawyer, Frank Davies, has said protests are unlikely to influence U.S. legal proceedings or accelerate his return. Davies underscored that diplomatic and judicial processes must follow legal norms, separate from public pressure, even as emotions run high over the high-profile case.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/protests-at-us-embassy-wont-expedite-ofori-attas-return-frank-davies/


17 Arrested in Tamale Drug Bust

Law enforcement in Tamale has arrested 17 individuals linked to alleged drug-related offences in a major bust. The arrests form part of ongoing efforts to curb narcotics trafficking and illegal drug distribution in Northern Ghana. Authorities say further investigations are underway, and those arrested may face multiple charges.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/17-arrested-in-tamale-drug-bust/


Suspect Remanded Over Stabbing of Woman in Both Eyes

A suspect accused of stabbing a woman in both eyes has been remanded into custody as the victim seeks medical treatment abroad. The shocking incident has drawn widespread sympathy, with daughter accounts urging swift justice and attention to increasing domestic violence cases in Ghana.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/suspect-remanded-over-stabbing-of-woman-in-both-eyes-victim-to-seek-treatment-abroad/


Bullets Won’t Break Us — Lands Ministry Vows War on Galamsey After Officer Shot

Following the shooting of a National Inter-Agency Taskforce on Illegal Mining (NAIMOS) officer during an operation against galamsey (illegal mining), the Ministry of Lands has reiterated its commitment to the fight against environmental crimes. Officials declared that violence will not deter enforcement efforts as Ghana intensifies measures to restore compliance and ecological stability.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/bullets-will-not-break-us-lands-ministry-vows-relentless-war-on-galamsey-after-naimos-officer-shot/


NPP Race: Kennedy ‘Perfect Fit’ for Party Base, Says K.K. Sarpong

Veteran politician K.K. Sarpong has endorsed Kennedy Agyapong as a strong contender in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership race, describing him as a “perfect fit” for the party’s base. Sarpong’s remarks come amid growing momentum behind Agyapong’s bid for higher office and reflect internal dynamics within Ghana’s largest political party ahead of key elections.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/npp-race-kennedy-is-a-perfect-fit-the-party-base-love-him-k-k-sarpong/


Key Suspect in Immigration Officer Murder Case Denies Killing Friend

A primary suspect in the murder case of immigration officers has publicly denied killing a friend, challenging the narrative presented by authorities. The case, which has captured public attention, remains under investigation as legal proceedings prepare for further hearings. The accused maintains innocence amid ongoing law enforcement scrutiny.
🔗 Full story: https://www.myjoyonline.com/i-did-not-kill-my-friend-declares-key-suspect-in-immigration-officers-murder-case/


Check back throughout the day for more live news updates as stories continue to develop.

Ghana News

Ghana Leads African Central Banks in Gold Reserve Accumulation as Global Buying Wave Hits $2 Billion

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Accra, Ghana – Ghana has emerged as one of the most active African central banks in the global gold accumulation surge, joining a broader shift by emerging market nations seeking to diversify reserves and shield economies from currency volatility and geopolitical risks.

According to the latest data, central banks worldwide purchased 27 tonnes of gold in February 2026, valued at approximately $2 billion.

While the bulk of demand continues to come from major players such as China, Poland, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, African central banks are gradually increasing their participation. Ghana stood out last year for aggressively boosting its gold reserves to support the cedi and strengthen its balance sheet amid economic challenges.

The move reflects a deliberate strategy to reduce reliance on traditional foreign currencies and build a more resilient reserve base.

Other African nations are also showing strategic interest. Uganda has launched a domestic gold purchasing programme targeting at least 100 kilograms over four months, while Kenya — despite holding just 0.02 tonnes — has signalled plans for gradual accumulation. Zimbabwe continues experimenting with gold-backed instruments, and the Democratic Republic of Congo aims to formalize 15 tonnes of artisanal gold production in 2026.

These efforts, though still modest compared to global leaders, signal a growing continental recognition of gold’s role as a hedge in uncertain times.

Analysts say this African participation, led by Ghana, aligns with a wider global trend where central banks are treating gold as a strategic asset rather than a relic of the past.

For Ghana, continued accumulation could further stabilise the cedi, enhance macroeconomic credibility, and support the country’s ambition to capture more value from its rich gold resources through strategic reserve management.

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Ghana News

LGBTQ Debate Intensifies After Mahama Comments, Moody’s Upgrades Ghana Outlook and Other Big Stories Today

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We have curated the most relevant stories from Ghana for your enjoyment and awareness. From renewed calls on the controversial Anti-LGBTQ bill and a significant credit rating upgrade, to traditional leadership disputes and maritime security operations, these developments reflect the key political, economic, and social conversations shaping the country this morning.


It Remains a Priority – Sam George on Anti-LGBTQ Bill
Ningo-Prampram MP Sam George has reaffirmed that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains a top priority for him and many Ghanaians. Speaking in a recent interview, the outspoken NDC legislator took a stance that challenges his boss’s (President Mahama), stating that the bill is not a distraction but a necessary piece of legislation to protect Ghanaian cultural and family values. He expressed confidence that the bill would eventually be passed, despite delays, and urged supporters to remain patient while the legislative process is followed. George stated that the bill enjoys broad public support and that he would continue to champion it until it becomes law.
Read the full story here

Rev. Ntim Fordjour Urges Mahama to Issue Directive to Fast-Track Anti-LGBTQ Bill
Deputy Minority Leader Rev. John Ntim Fordjour has called on President John Dramani Mahama to issue a directive to fast-track the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ bill. The NPP MP argued that the legislation reflects the will of the Ghanaian people and should not be allowed to drag on indefinitely. He urged the President to demonstrate leadership by ensuring the bill is prioritised in Parliament, warning that further delays could erode public trust in the government’s commitment to moral and cultural issues.
Read the full story here

President Mahama Nominates Pamela Graham as New Auditor-General
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Pamela Graham as the new Auditor-General of Ghana. The nomination, which has been forwarded to Parliament for approval, is expected to bring fresh leadership to the country’s supreme audit institution. Graham is widely regarded as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in public financial management and auditing. If confirmed, her appointment will be closely watched as the government continues efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability in public finances.
Read the full story here

Etweresohene Stripped of Title, Barred from Ofori Panin Fie Over Alleged Rebellion
The Etweresohene has been stripped of his title and barred from the Ofori Panin Fie (the palace of the Okyenhene) following allegations of rebellion and disloyalty. The traditional council took the decision after what it described as persistent acts of insubordination and attempts to undermine the authority of the Okyenhene. The development has generated significant interest in traditional circles and highlights ongoing tensions within some traditional structures in the Eastern Region.
Read the full story here

Moody’s Upgrades Ghana’s Outlook to Positive, Affirms Caa1 Rating
Global ratings agency Moody’s has upgraded Ghana’s outlook to positive while affirming the country’s long-term issuer rating at Caa1. The upgrade reflects improving fiscal performance, debt management efforts, and signs of economic stabilisation. However, Moody’s cautioned that risks remain, particularly from external shocks such as global fuel price volatility. The positive outlook signals growing confidence in Ghana’s reform trajectory and could improve the country’s access to international capital markets.
Read the full story here

Mahama to Headline The Africa Debate 2026
President John Dramani Mahama has been confirmed as the headline speaker at The Africa Debate 2026, a major continental platform for discussing Africa’s most pressing issues. The event is expected to bring together African leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage on topics ranging from economic transformation to governance and regional integration. Mahama’s selection underscores his growing stature as a key voice on African affairs.
Read the full story here

Navy Seizes Eight Unregistered Boats at New Takoradi
The Ghana Navy has seized eight unregistered boats during a routine patrol at New Takoradi. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal fishing and unregulated maritime activities along Ghana’s coastline. The vessels have been impounded, and investigations are underway to determine the owners and intended use of the boats. The Navy has reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s marine resources and enforcing maritime laws.
Read the full story here

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Ghana News

Catholic Bishops Reject Trivialization of LGBTQ+ Debate by Mahama Government: ‘Nations Do Not Live by Bread Alone’

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ACCRA – Ghana’s Catholic Bishops have issued a forceful pastoral statement urging citizens and leaders alike to treat the ongoing LGBTQ+ debate with the seriousness it deserves.

In the statement, the Bishops warned against dismissing the issue as a minor national concern.

Released on April 10, 2026, the statement from the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) directly responds to recent remarks by President John Dramani Mahama and Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who, in separate public statements, suggested the matter is not a major national priority.

“No question that touches the structure of human identity, family life, and social continuity can be trivial,” the bishops declared.

Values as the Invisible Architecture of Nations

While acknowledging Ghana’s pressing economic challenges, the Conference rejected any attempt to separate moral questions from national development.

“Nations do not live by bread alone,” the statement reads. “They are sustained also by the invisible architecture of values.”

The bishops called for a balanced approach to the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, urging that it uphold both human dignity and the institution of the family.

Clear Condemnation of Discrimination

In a significant passage, the GCBC firmly condemned all forms of discrimination against individuals regardless of sexual orientation.

“No individual, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, may be subjected to violence, hatred, or unjust discrimination,” the bishops stated.

However, they simultaneously reaffirmed their position on traditional family values, describing the family as a nation’s most efficient social welfare system.

“To affirm dignity does not require the redefinition of marriage,” the bishops added. “To defend marriage does not require hostility.”

Reminder to President Mahama

The Conference reminded President Mahama of his earlier commitment to assent to the bill if duly passed by Parliament.

“Democratic integrity rests… on the fidelity of leaders to their publicly stated commitments,” the bishops noted.

They concluded with a call for calm and respectful engagement across all sectors of society, warning that words can either build a republic of trust or fracture it into suspicion.

The GCBC reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to a national conversation grounded in respect, moral clarity, and the common good.

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