Veteran Ghanaian Politician Kofi Wayo Reportedly Dies at 71

Ghana’s political community has been hit with sad news following reports that veteran politician and businessman Charles Eric Kofi Wayo, popularly known as “Chuck” Wayo, has died.

The outspoken politician, who became widely known for his strong opinions and open criticism of people in power, reportedly passed away in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, 2026. He was 71 years old, according to a report by The New Republic.

His reported death brings back memories of a man who never appeared afraid to challenge political leaders, even when his comments caused controversy.

The report, published by GhanaWeb on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Kofi Wayo first gained national attention during the era of former President Jerry John Rawlings. He became known for his criticism of the government and his strong views on corruption, leadership and the management of Ghana’s economy.

His political journey later took him to the New Patriotic Party. He supported the party ahead of the 2000 general election and sought to contest the Ayawaso East parliamentary seat. Although he did not win the parliamentary contest, he remained active in political discussions.

However, his relationship with the NPP did not last. After the party came to power under former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Wayo also became critical of the administration. He later moved to the People’s National Convention before establishing his own political movement, the United Renaissance Party.

Through the party, he presented himself as an alternative to Ghana’s two major political parties. He spoke about job creation, agriculture, industrial development and the need for leaders to focus on ordinary citizens.

His style was different from that of many politicians. He was known for his blunt language, strong personality and willingness to speak against governments regardless of which party was in power.

In March 2017, Wayo announced that he was leaving active politics to focus on farming and supporting farmers. He explained that he had become disappointed with the country’s political system and wanted to turn his attention to practical work.

Since then, he had largely stayed away from public political activities. His long absence even led to renewed public interest in his whereabouts in recent years.

His reported passing therefore marks the end of a chapter in Ghana’s political history, particularly for those who remember the outspoken figure who regularly challenged political leaders.