Politician and businessman Kofi Wayo passes on

Ghanaian politician and businessman Charles Eric Kofi Wayo, popularly known as Kofi Wayo or ‘Chuck,’ has died..

A death announcement circulated on Saturday, November 7, 2026, said he passed away in the early hours of the day at Nyaho Clinic in Accra.

Mr Wayo, who lived in East Legon, became a familiar figure in Ghanaian politics through his outspoken commentary on governance, corruption and the management of the economy.

Although he did not occupy any major public office, he carved a niche for himself as a vocal political critic, often challenging successive governments and leaders across the political divide.

He also played an active role in party politics, founding the United Renaissance Party (URP) after his involvement with other political parties.

His direct and often controversial style of political engagement made him a prominent voice in public discussions on national affairs.

Kofi Wayo rose to national prominence in the early 2000s, initially through his criticism of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government before becoming associated with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He contested the Ayawaso East parliamentary seat on the NPP ticket in the 2000 general elections but lost to the incumbent MP.

His relationship with the party reportedly deteriorated after it assumed office in 2001, with Mr Wayo repeatedly criticising the Kufuor administration over its handling of governance and the economy.

He later parted ways with the NPP, became associated with the People’s National Convention (PNC) and subsequently established the United Renaissance Party, serving as its founder and leader.

Mr Wayo also pursued presidential ambitions and was endorsed as the URP’s flagbearer for the 2012 general elections.

Outside politics, he championed agricultural development and supported farmers by distributing farming equipment, including cutlasses.

In 2017, he announced plans to withdraw from active politics and concentrate on farming, explaining that he wanted to help rural farmers.

His political journey was characterised by outspoken criticism of governments, regular media engagements and an