Pulse List: Top 10 Controversial Political Moments in Ghana in 2025

Ghana’s political scene in 2025 was dominated by high-profile controversies, public uproar, and events that tested the country’s democratic institutions.

From parliamentary chaos and judicial suspensions to arrests of prominent political figures and alleged politically motivated actions, the year saw politicians, civil servants, and the public at the centre of heated debates. Social media amplified these incidents, fueling discussion about accountability, governance, and the rule of law.

This article chronicles the top ten controversial political moments of 2025, highlighting key events, actors, and the reactions that shaped public discourse.

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A parliamentary vetting session by the Appointments Committee of Parliament descended into chaos as lawmakers engaged in physical altercations, destroying furniture and microphones. The disagreement arose over the number of nominees to vet, with the minority accusing the majority of extending proceedings without consensus. The vetting committee chairman, Benard Ahiafor called the event “totally unacceptable,” and a special committee was later formed to investigate.

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Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor after failing to appear for questioning in multiple corruption probes. The cases involved the National Cathedral project, ECG contract termination, and GRA-SML revenue contracts. An Interpol Red Notice was issued, and extradition proceedings from the US were initiated, though delayed by legal challenges.

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President Mahama removed Inspector-General of Police George Akuffo Dampare, appointing COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as his replacement. Analysts noted concerns over political influence in policing, while Dampare moved on to educational and civic roles.

National Security operatives raided former Bank of Ghana Governor Ernest Addison’s residence, allegedly searching for vaults and seizing vehicles and CCTV systems. Addison denied holding vaults or cash. Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin criticised the operation as politically motivated, while authorities insisted it followed legal procedures.

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President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice following petitions alleging misconduct. A five-member committee investigated, while Torkornoo challenged the suspension in court. She addressed the nation amid controversy, marking the first suspension of a sitting Chief Justice in Ghana. She was ultimately dismissed on September 1.

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A video surfaced showing Sammy Gyamfi handing US dollar notes to evangelist Patricia Oduro. The incident sparked outrage over public conduct and potential breaches of the Currency Act. Gyamfi apologised, claiming the gesture was private. Opposition parties called for his interdiction.

NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Wontumi) was detained by EOCO over financial irregularities. Minority MPs staged a walkout and sit-in at EOCO headquarters, criticising bail conditions as excessive and politically motivated.

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Violence disrupted the parliamentary rerun across 19 polling stations, with assaults on former MP Hawa Koomson and journalists. The Ghana Journalists Association condemned the attacks, and eight individuals were later sentenced.

Security operatives demolished a warehouse owned by businessman Daniel McKorley (McDan) without notice. Workers were denied access to retrieve belongings. Analysts and traditional leaders criticised the action as potentially politically motivated.

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Bono Regional NPP Chairman Kwame Baffoe (Abronye DC) was arrested for offensive conduct, with bail repeatedly denied. Minority MPs condemned the arrest, alleging political persecution, while Abronye recounted questioning over properties and companies during detention.

The political controversies of 2025 underscored the fragility of institutional independence and the intensity of Ghana’s partisan environment. From parliamentary chaos and judicial suspensions to high-profile arrests and public scandals, each incident sparked debate about accountability, governance, and the rule of law. As the nation moves forward, these events will continue to shape expectations for transparency, fairness, and institutional integrity in Ghanaian politics.