Charles Eric Kofi Wayo, the Ghanaian politician and businessman better known as Kofi Wayo or ‘Chuck’, has died at the age of 71.
He reportedly passed away in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Nyaho Clinic in Accra, according to a death announcement circulated later in the day.
Wayo, a resident of East Legon, became a familiar name in Ghanaian politics through his fearless commentary, frequent criticism of government policies and willingness to challenge political figures regardless of their party affiliation.
Though he never occupied a major government position, he carved out a place for himself in the country’s political conversation, regularly speaking on issues of corruption, leadership, economic management and governance.
His political journey also took him beyond commentary, leading him to establish the United Renaissance Party (URP) after falling out with other political establishments.
Wayo’s outspoken personality and unconventional approach to political engagement often attracted public attention, making him one of the more recognisable independent-minded figures in Ghana’s political space.
His passing brings to an end a political journey defined by strong opinions, party realignments and persistent criticism of successive administrations.
The family is yet to communicate details of his funeral arrangements.
Kofi Wayo rose to national prominence in the early 2000s, initially drawing attention for his criticism of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government before aligning himself with the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He sought to enter Parliament in the 2000 general elections, contesting the Ayawaso East constituency on the NPP ticket. However, he failed to unseat the incumbent Member of Parliament.
His association with the NPP did not last long after the party came to power in 2001. Wayo became increasingly critical of the Kufuor administration, particularly over its approach to governance and economic management, eventually distancing himself from the party.
He later became associated with the People’s National Convention (PNC) before establishing the United Renaissance Party, where he served as founder and leader.
His political ambitions extended to the presidency, and in 2012, he received the URP’s endorsement as its presidential candidate.
Outside electoral politics, Wayo showed a keen interest in agriculture and rural development. He supported farmers by distributing farming equipment, including cutlasses, as part of his efforts to encourage agricultural activities.
In 2017, he announced plans to withdraw from active politics and devote more attention to farming, explaining that he wanted to contribute to the development of rural communities and support farmers.
