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Ghana News Updates (Jan 16, 2026): Catch up on the Major Stories

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Welcome to our rolling news roundup from Ghana. From major economic achievements and international cooperation to domestic security matters, these stories capture the nation’s current momentum.

Check back regularly for fresh updates as events continue to unfold.

EC Sets March 3 for Ayawaso East By-Election

The Electoral Commission of Ghana has announced March 3, 2026, as the date for the Ayawaso East by-election, following the vacancy created by the death of the incumbent MP. The commission has begun preparations, including voter registration updates and stakeholder engagements, to ensure a smooth and credible poll.

Victor Smith Refutes Claims Sedina Tamakloe Is Not in Nevada Detention Centre in US

Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Smith, has dismissed reports suggesting former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu is not detained in Nevada, confirming she remains in U.S. custody as extradition proceedings advance. The ambassador emphasized ongoing cooperation between Ghana and U.S. authorities.

Govt Seeks €1m Spanish Grant to Expand Ayalolo Bus Fleet – Local Govt Minister

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development is pursuing a €1 million grant from Spain to expand the Ayalolo bus rapid transit fleet, aiming to improve urban mobility in Accra and reduce congestion. The initiative supports Ghana’s sustainable transport goals.

Sedina Tamakloe Set for January 21 US Court Hearing – Victor Smith

Ambassador Victor Smith has confirmed that Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, the former MASLOC CEO, is scheduled for a U.S. immigration court hearing on January 21, 2026. The date advances Ghana’s extradition efforts following her arrest in the U.S. on financial misconduct charges.

Chief Advocates Reinstatement of Corporal Punishment in Schools

A traditional leader in the Eastern Region has called for the reinstatement of corporal punishment in Ghanaian schools, arguing it is necessary to restore discipline amid rising indiscipline among students. The proposal has reignited national debate on child rights and educational methods.

Lt-Col Dela Galley Makes History as First Female Head of Ghana Military Police

Lt-Col Dela Galley has been appointed as the first woman to head the Ghana Military Police, marking a historic milestone for gender inclusion in the Ghana Armed Forces. Her appointment is widely celebrated as a step toward greater diversity in military leadership.

NPP Needs the Guidance of Its Elders, Not Public Disputes – Sylvester Tetteh

NPP Executive Committee member Sylvester Tetteh has urged party leaders to seek counsel from elders rather than engage in public disputes, warning that internal conflicts could undermine efforts to rebuild after the 2024 election defeat.

Sedina Tamakloe Attionu Nabbed in US as Extradition Process Begins

Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu has been arrested in the United States, with formal extradition proceedings now underway. Ghana’s government secured U.S. cooperation following her 2024 conviction on 78 counts of financial misconduct, marking a significant step in cross-border accountability.

IMF Hails Ghana’s 2025 Economic Performance as Better Than Expected

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended Ghana’s 2025 economic performance, describing it as stronger than anticipated. The positive assessment highlights improved fiscal discipline, cedi stability, and progress under the Mahama administration’s recovery strategy.

Fiscal Discipline, Cedi Stability Made 2025 a Very Good Year – IMF

IMF officials praised Ghana’s 2025 fiscal discipline and the cedi’s remarkable stability as the key drivers behind the country’s strong economic performance, signaling confidence in the nation’s ongoing reforms and path toward sustainable growth.

Banks Wrote Off GH¢1.39bn as Bad Debt in 10 Months of 2025

Ghanaian banks wrote off GH¢1.39 billion in non-performing loans over the first ten months of 2025, reflecting continued efforts to clean up balance sheets and strengthen the financial sector amid ongoing economic recovery measures.

US ICE Confirms Ofori-Atta Overstayed Visa, Describes Him as an Illegal Alien

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) hasofficially confirmed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta overstayed his visa and is classified as an illegal alien in the United States, amid ongoing extradition discussions with Ghanaian authorities.

Police Arrest TikToker Captured in Viral Video Assaulting a Woman

Ghana Police Service has arrested a TikToker identified in a viral video assaulting a woman, following public outcry and swift investigation. The suspect is in custody assisting with inquiries into the domestic violence incident.

Govt to Scrap Mining Stability Pacts, Double Royalties

The Government of Ghana has announced plans to scrap existing mining stability agreements and double royalties paid by mining companies, a move aimed at increasing national revenue from the sector and addressing long-standing concerns about equitable resource benefits.

Ghana News

Ibrahim Mahama Acquires New $70 Million Private Jet

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Accra, Ghana – March 3, 2026 – Ghanaian business tycoon Ibrahim Mahama has added a state-of-the-art Bombardier Global 6500 to his aviation fleet, with the ultra-long-range private jet valued at approximately $70 million.

The aircraft was purchased in 2024 and officially delivered in February 2026. A viral video circulating on social media today shows Mahama boarding the sleek grey-and-white jet, which proudly displays his signature “Dzata” (meaning “Lion”) branding on the tail—symbolizing strength, leadership, and his personal identity.

The Bombardier Global 6500 is one of the most advanced business jets in the world, boasting:

-A range of up to 6,600 nautical miles (enough for non-stop flights from Accra to New York, London, or Dubai)

-Maximum speed of Mach 0.90

A- spacious, customizable cabin featuring private suites, lounge areas, office space, high-end entertainment systems, and advanced climate control

-Bombardier’s cutting-edge Vision flight deck for enhanced safety and navigation

Ibrahim Mahama, younger brother of President John Dramani Mahama, is one of Ghana’s most prominent entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

His business empire spans mining (through Engineers & Planners), cement production (Dzata Cement), infrastructure development, and various charitable initiatives. The new jet aligns with his reputation for blending bold business moves with luxury and innovation.

The acquisition comes amid growing interest in private aviation among Africa’s high-net-worth individuals and reinforces Ghana’s position as a hub for influential business figures on the continent.

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Ghana’s Top Muslim Leader Condemns Khamenei Assassination, Calls for New World Order Based on ‘Right Over Might’

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ACCRA, GHANA – March 3, 2026 – In a strongly worded message that resonates far beyond West Africa, Ghana’s highest spiritual authority for the Muslim community has officially condemned the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

National Chief Imam, Shaikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, issued a passionate plea for a global restructuring based on ethical principles over military power.

The message from the National Chief Imam released to the media in Ghana describes the late Iranian leader as a “pious man” and a “symbol of resistance and hope for the oppressed.”

The statement directly denounces the operation that led to his death as a “US-cum-Israeli aggression” carried out during the holy month of Ramadan.

The statement, released by his Personal Assistant Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, throws the Ghanaian Muslim community’s moral weight behind Tehran, describing the killing of the Ayatollah not as a political assassination but as a “martyrdom” that has thrown the global Islamic fraternity into sorrow.

A Broader Plea for Humanity

However, in a move that underscores the complexities of modern geopolitics, the Chief Imam’s message extends beyond sectarian lines. He explicitly expressed sadness over the loss of all lives in the ongoing conflict, including “Jewish or American, Arab or Persian.”

This inclusive tone positions the respected Ghanaian religious leader as a potential voice of moderation. He urged all warring factions to respect the sovereignty of nations, the dignity of humanity, and the sanctity of the Ramadan period.

“In the wisdom of His Eminence, contemporary society needs a new global order that articulates the centrality of RIGHT over MIGHT,” the statement reads. “This, he contends, will consolidate peace and security for the entirety of humanity.”

Geo-politics and Interfaith Harmony

The Chief Imam’s office acknowledged the deeply “geo-political” nature of the current tensions but insisted that “interfaith harmony has a role in search for solution.”

His call for an immediate end to hostilities and a shift from “escalating rhetorics” to “peace building pragmatics” arrives at a moment of extreme volatility in the Middle East.

By invoking the spirit of Ramadan—a time of reflection and mercy—Shaikh Sharubutu is appealing to the shared values of the Abrahamic faiths to de-escalate the situation.

The statement has been described by experts as a significant diplomatic signal from Ghana, a nation known for its religious tolerance and stable democracy. It places the country’s Muslim leadership firmly on the side of dialogue and against what it perceives as foreign aggression, while simultaneously calling for the protection of all innocent life.

As the world watches the fallout from Tehran, the voice from Accra adds a distinct moral dimension to the debate: a call for a global order where ethical right, rather than geopolitical might, determines the future of international peace.

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Top 10 Questions on the Escalating US-Israel-Iran Conflict Answered

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Accra, Ghana – March 3, 2026 – As the US-Israel-Iran conflict enters its third day, marked by deadly airstrikes, missile barrages, and the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, global audiences are flooded with breaking alerts, viral claims, and instant analysis.

In a special segment on Firstpost’s Vantage, veteran journalist Palki Sharma Upadhyay addressed the most pressing viewer-submitted questions to cut through the noise and provide clear, concise answers.

Key points from the explainer:

1. What exactly is happening?
The US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on US bases and allied interests across the Gulf.

2. Is this war going to get bigger?
It appears likely. The conflict shows no immediate signs of stopping.

3. When will it end?
No one knows. The situation remains highly unpredictable.

4. Will Russia, China, or NATO join the war?
No. Major powers are not expected to enter directly.

5. Will this go nuclear?
Highly unlikely. Nuclear escalation is not anticipated.

6. What role is the United Nations playing?
The UN has condemned the violence but is limited to diplomatic calls for restraint.

7. What does it mean for oil-importing countries like Ghana and other African nations?
It is not good news. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz or Gulf supply routes could drive up crude and LNG prices, directly impacting energy costs, inflation, and household budgets in import-dependent economies.

8. Why is the US doing this at all?
The motivation remains unclear even to many Americans—43% disapprove of the strikes according to recent polls.

9. What should you do if you’re stuck in the region?
Do not panic. Follow official advisories, contact your embassy, and stay where you are.

10. Does anyone actually have an exit strategy?
It depends on decisions made by US President Donald Trump.

The segment reflects growing global anxiety over the conflict’s trajectory, with African governments—including Ghana—issuing shelter-in-place advisories, partial embassy evacuations, and travel warnings for nationals in the Gulf and Iran.

The potential for higher oil prices and disrupted shipping routes threatens to reverse recent single-digit inflation gains in oil-importing African countries.

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