“Ghana Ayɛ Mmɔbɔ”: Ghanaians in US Stage Anti-Mahama Demonstration at UN

Ghanaians in the United States staged a peaceful demonstration near the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, accusing President John Dramani Mahama’s government of failing to address the country’s pressing challenges.

The protest, organised by diaspora group Ghanaians Abroad, began at 7:00 a.m. at Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza under the theme “Ghana Ayɛ Mmɔbɔ,” meaning “Ghana is suffering.”

It coincided with President Mahama’s visit to New York for the UN General Assembly. Organisers said the demonstration was non-partisan and aimed at demanding accountability.

Speakers highlighted the government’s handling of illegal mining, or galamsey, warning that rivers and forest reserves were being destroyed. They questioned why a state of emergency had not been declared despite earlier promises.

Protesters also criticised the slow implementation of key campaign pledges, including the 24-hour economy policy, the Women’s Development Bank, and automatic employment for newly qualified teachers and nurses.

They raised concerns over the arrest and intimidation of social media critics, calling for protection of free speech. Drug trafficking reports linked to Ghana were also condemned.

Organiser Kwasi Obeng-Fosu said the protest was “a call for accountability, transparency and justice,” not hatred.

The group said it would submit a petition to Ghanaian representatives in the United States and continue monitoring the government’s response.

President Mahama is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday, September 24, 2026.