Why I Support Hon. Boakye Agyarko for National Chairman of the NPP: Alhaji Dr Hafiz Bin Salih

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is at a crucial turning point. After losing both the presidency and its parliamentary majority in December 2024, the party needs more than just a caretaker. It needs someone who can build, unite, and strategise. I believe Hon. Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko is that person, and I am proud to support his bid for the position of National Chairman. A Founding Commitment That Cannot Be Faked Some people joined the NPP when it became fashionable, but others helped build it from the ground up. Hon. Agyarko is one of the founders. Since 1992, his connection to the NPP has been based on true conviction, not just convenience. He was the National Campaign Manager during the tough 2012 presidential election, served as Policy Adviser in 2016, and worked as Energy Minister under President Akufo-Addo. With over thirty years of experience, he has a deep understanding and sense of responsibility for the party that few others can offer. It is important to choose a National Chairman with this level of commitment. When the party is in opposition and lacks government resources, unity depends on leaders who are truly loyal, not just looking for opportunities. The Right Diagnosis for What heals the Party. Hon. Agyarko has been open and honest about the NPP’s situation. He summed it up clearly: “We had a solid candidate but a weak party.” This is an honest recognition that by 2024, the party’s internal structures, grassroots networks, and member support had weakened. To win back power in 2028, these issues must be fixed from the ground up. Hon. Agyarko has made rebuilding these structures the main focus of his campaign. A leader who understands the real problem is already halfway to solving it. A Unifier at a Time of Deep Divisions One of the most important qualities in a National Chairman is the ability to bring together different groups within the party. After eight years in power, the NPP has built up some internal disagreements and disappointments. If these issues are not addressed, they can grow and hurt the party at the polls. Who else to foster the impactful reconciliation of fallouts than the venerable Boakye Agyarko, a stalwart who had his low moments with the party in the early days of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government, yet he never relented on his commitment and loyalty to the NPP. Hon. Agyarko has shown through his nationwide tour that he takes this responsibility seriously. His message to party leaders across the country has been clear: focus on forgiveness, reconciliation, and returning to the NPP’s core values of unity and respect. He has promised to keep an open-door policy, making himself available to any member who feels left out or hurt. This is not just campaign talk; it shows the kind of person he is, which many in the party see as one of his biggest strengths. Right now, the party needs a National Chairman who is respected by everyone, from the grassroots to the top leadership. Grassroots Credibility Built Through Action A National Chairman’s real impact is not measured by speeches at headquarters, but by how strong the party is in every constituency across all sixteen regions. Hon. Agyarko understands this well. His campaign has focused on the grassroots, with direct engagement with constituency leaders all over the country. The Strategic Thinker the Party Needs The NPP also needs a National Chairman who can think strategically about how to return to power. Hon. Agyarko’s professional experience spans over twenty years at the Bank of New York, where he became Vice President, as well as a strong grasp of energy policy. This background gives him discipline and analytical skills that many career politicians do not have. His international banking experience can also help the party raise more funds, especially from Ghanaians living abroad. When in opposition, financial stability is essential for running the party, supporting candidates, and organising voter outreach. Aligned with the Party’s Presidential Direction For the party to succeed in elections, the National Chairman must work well with the presidential candidate. From the start, Hon. Agyarko has said that, if elected, he will fully support Alhaji Dr Bawumia’s 2028 presidential campaign to ensure that he is elected President of the Republic of Ghana. His early visit to the former Vice President, which many in the party praised, showed that he views the chairman’s job as supporting and working closely with the presidential candidate, not competing or seeking personal attention. The unity the party needs is best achieved by someone with Hon. Agyarko’s experience and character, working together with Alhaji Dr Bawumia to win. The Leadership Qualities That Set Him Apart Leadership is shown through actions, not just words. What sets Hon. Agyarko apart from other candidates is not only what he has achieved, but also the character and mindset he brings to his work. Intellectual Depth and Academic Rigour: Hon. Agyarko has a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of Ghana, an MBA in Financial Economics from Pace University in New York, and an Advanced Professional Certificate in Banking from the American Institute of Banking. These qualifications show he is a thinker, planner, and problem-solver. The NPP faces complex challenges in opposition, and it needs a chairman who can tackle them with real analysis, not just words. Discipline and a “No-Nonsense” Track Record: Hon Agyarko has been clear about the kind of chairman he will be, saying: “With my ‘no-nonsense’ track record, I will instil the much-needed discipline among our rank and file.” This is not about being harsh. It recognises that the party’s problems in 2024 were partly due to indiscipline, poor organisation, and unclear accountability. A chairman must have the authority and determination to restore order, and Hon. Agyarko has both. The Ability to Mentor and Inspire: A national chairman who can inspire younger members and mentor the next generation of NPP leaders will help build not just a strong 2028 campaign, but a party that lasts beyond

ECOWAS Court Dismisses Former Chief Justice Torkornoo’s Claims Against Ghana

Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai has announced that the ECOWAS Community Court has dismissed all seven claims brought against the Republic of Ghana by former Chief Justice Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Justice Srem-Sai revealed that the court rejected each of the allegations filed by the former Chief Justice, including her demand for US$10 million in damages. Quoting from the court’s decision, he wrote: “In light of the Court’s conclusions that Ghana has not violated any of the Applicant’s rights under the African Charter as alleged, the Court makes no decision on reparations.” Justice Srem-Sai extended his appreciation to the team of State Attorneys who worked diligently on Ghana’s defence, acknowledging their commitment and research. “Thanks, again, to our team of illustrious State Attorneys who put in hours and hours of research to support the Republic’s defence,” he said. The ruling marks a decisive victory for the Republic of Ghana in a high-profile legal battle before the ECOWAS Community Court. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Rock Estate Housing Project in Upper East Stalls Years After High-Profile Sod-Cutting 

The much-anticipated Rock Estate housing project in the Upper East Region remains at a standstill more than six years after its grand launch, a recent visit by the Apexnewsgh team has revealed. Despite high expectations and political fanfare surrounding the project’s unveiling in 2019, there has been no visible progress at the site. The Rock Estate initiative, which was heavily touted by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper East Region during the 2020 general election, was launched on the same day as the Pwalugu Irrigation Dam project by former President Nana Akufo-Addo. The project was hailed as a beacon of hope for the people of Upper East, particularly in the Talensi District, where many families struggle with accommodation challenges. Plans called for the construction of 120 homes, including three-bedroom and two-bedroom detached and semi-detached units, and promised to create as many as 3,000 job opportunities. However, after six and a half years, the site tells a different story. During their recent inspection, Apexnewsgh reporters found that no progress had been made beyond the three uncompleted structures erected for the initial sod-cutting ceremony. Not a single additional block has been added, leaving the project in limbo. Overgrown bushes and wild animals have now taken over what was once a symbol of renewed hope for the district. The lack of development has fueled frustration and skepticism among local residents, who are now questioning the motives behind the NPP administration’s promises. Many wonder whether the project was merely political rhetoric aimed at winning votes rather than a genuine commitment to solving the region’s housing crisis. As the Rock Estate housing project remains abandoned, it stands as a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises and the urgent need for accountability in the region’s development agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Interior Ministry Revokes All Firearm Licences, Announces Stricter Gun Control Measures Nationwide

The Ministry of the Interior has revoked all existing firearm licences across Ghana, effective Tuesday, June 23, 2026, as part of a major overhaul of the country’s firearms regulatory system. The sweeping move requires every firearm holder to reapply for a new licence and submit to a more rigorous vetting process, in a bid to strengthen gun control and safeguard public safety. Announcing the new measures at a press briefing in Accra, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak explained that the reforms are designed to address loopholes in the current licensing regime and combat the misuse of legally acquired firearms. He expressed alarm at the fact that some individuals have abused their licences for purposes beyond their original authorization, posing serious risks to public security. The new licensing requirements will be significantly tougher. Prospective applicants must now undergo mandatory mental health assessments, drug screening, and structured firearms training before any licence is granted. As part of the government’s efforts to tighten regulation, Minister Mubarak also disclosed plans to destroy over 2,000 firearms that have been either voluntarily surrendered or seized under the national gun amnesty programme. The announcement follows closely on the heels of the Ministry’s suspension of Kantanka Security Services Limited’s operating licence, after a shooting incident at Kwabenya that injured former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo. The suspension was prompted by alleged regulatory breaches, including the use of unauthorized uniforms and the possession of firearms and ammunition by security company personnel while on duty. The Ministry said these new actions are part of broader efforts to enhance oversight of firearms possession and improve public safety throughout Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

GES Warns School Heads Against Extravagant Post-Exam Celebrations, Threatens Sanctions

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to heads of senior high schools across the country, instructing them to put a stop to extravagant post-examination celebrations on school campuses. Administrators who disregard this directive could face disciplinary action, including possible removal from office. At a media briefing on Monday, June 22, GES Director-General Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis expressed concern over the growing trend of lavish festivities following the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The Service has observed with alarm the presentation of expensive gifts, sometimes even vehicles, to students on school grounds, which Prof. Davis described as contrary to the spirit and purpose of educational institutions. “Schools are places of learning and character formation, not venues for displays of wealth that risk creating divisions among students,” Prof. Davis stated. While he clarified that the GES does not oppose parents celebrating their children’s academic milestones, he insisted that such celebrations should not take the form of ostentatious events on school premises. Effective immediately, schools are barred from hosting celebrations involving luxury gifts or costly items. Parents who wish to reward their children in such ways are encouraged to do so outside the school environment. This directive follows a recent order from Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, who instructed the GES to suspend all flamboyant post-exam festivities and graduation-related events in schools until further notice. Prof. Davis added that regional directors have been tasked with enforcing the new policy and monitoring compliance nationwide. He warned that any school head caught allowing such activities on campus would face sanctions from the Service. Explaining the rationale behind the move, Prof. Davis emphasized that the GES is committed to upholding the core values of fairness and inclusivity within Ghana’s education system. “Schools must remain environments where academic achievement and personal effort are celebrated above social or economic status,” he said. “We are determined to prevent this practice from taking root in our school culture, and to ensure that every student has an equal opportunity, regardless of background.” The directive signals the GES’s resolve to maintain schools as places of equal opportunity and to protect the integrity of the educational experience for all students. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

NPP Will Remain Strong Even If Kennedy Agyapong Leaves, Says Energy Analyst Kwadwo Poku

Energy analyst and former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, Kwadwo Poku, has expressed confidence in the party’s resilience, stating that the NPP will remain strong even if former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong decides to leave. Poku’s comments come at a time of heightened tension within the opposition party. Some members have called for disciplinary action against Kennedy Agyapong in response to remarks they believe might undermine the NPP’s future electoral prospects. Agyapong, however, has stood his ground, insisting he will not be silenced by internal criticism and warning that further provocation could prompt him to disclose sensitive information. “NPP should be careful with me, saying I am bitter. If they provoke me, I will spill the beans all over the place,” he cautioned. Speaking in a media engagement, June 22, Kwadwo Poku acknowledged the significant influence Agyapong wields within the NPP, but emphasized that no individual is greater than the party itself. To make his point, he cited a social experiment from New York involving a renowned symphony musician: “There is a man who plays symphony there. Anytime he plays, you cannot get a ticket because the wealthy in New York buy his tickets. The same man was put at the subway and was asked to play, but nobody gave him money while he played there.” Poku explained that the experiment shows how an individual’s importance is often tied to the platform or institution they are associated with. “This means your importance is with the company you keep. No single person is bigger than the NPP or the NDC. Nobody gives these two political parties enough credit,” he said. While urging reconciliation, Mr. Poku added that he would personally encourage Kennedy Agyapong to stay with the NPP. “I will sit with Ken Agyapong and beg him anytime and any day to stay with the NPP, but if we cannot reconcile and he leaves the NPP, his departure will not collapse the NPP,” he stated. His remarks come as the NPP leadership works to manage internal disagreements and foster unity ahead of future elections, with the party’s internal wrangling drawing increasing public attention. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

NPP Expresses Disappointment Over Kennedy Agyapong’s Public Criticism, Urges Restraint from Party Members

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has voiced its disappointment following recent public remarks made by former Assin Central MP and former flagbearer aspirant, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong. The party described his criticisms as “unfortunate” and called on senior members to exercise greater caution in their public statements. Kennedy Agyapong found himself at the center of controversy after a television interview on Thursday, June 18, where he openly criticized the NPP’s performance and warned that he could reveal sensitive information about the party if provoked further. His comments came on the heels of earlier accusations that the NPP had failed to complete and operationalise the Afari Military Hospital during its eight years in government. Responding to the uproar, NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed addressed the media, urging all party members to be mindful of how their public commentary affects the party’s image and legacy. “We are very much disappointed in this particular commentary,” Mohammed stated. “As senior members of the party, not only him, people should be guided and mindful of the public commentary that we make about the party and also about successive governments under the NPP, more especially the two presidents that have governed this country.” Mohammed emphasized that the NPP’s electoral fortunes are inextricably linked to the achievements of former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, whose administrations, he said, delivered significant progress for Ghana. “We cannot win political power without standing on the strength of President Kufuor’s performance and also on the strength of President Akufo-Addo’s performance. These are clearly the good things that have happened to the party and the opportunity to govern the country Ghana with the ideology and the direction of the NPP. They have made significant gains, and these gains cannot be overlooked,” he stressed. Describing Kennedy Agyapong’s recent remarks as regrettable, Mohammed added, “It is very unfortunate that we would have a senior party member such as Hon. Kennedy to have publicly made such a statement.” With some party supporters and members calling for disciplinary measures against Agyapong, Mohammed assured that the NPP would follow its established internal procedures. “When you check the party’s constitution, we have the grievances procedure. I believe that people are making calls and I also believe that some other people are also submitting petitions regarding some of these particular commentaries. We are also reminded that due process must always be used in all instances,” he concluded. The party’s response underscores growing concerns about internal unity and the importance of managing dissent as it looks ahead to future electoral contests. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Bryan Acheampong Urges Kennedy Agyapong to Forgive and Unite for NPP’s 2028 Comeback

The Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has made a heartfelt appeal to former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential contender Kennedy Agyapong, urging him to set aside personal differences and join efforts to rebuild party unity ahead of the crucial 2028 general election. Dr. Acheampong’s call comes in the wake of strong statements from Kennedy Agyapong, who recently warned that he would not be intimidated or silenced by criticism from within the NPP. Agyapong, the former Assin Central MP, cautioned that continued attempts to challenge his claims could force him to “spill the beans” and reveal sensitive information about the party. Addressing these tensions in a statement issued on Friday, June 19, 2026, Dr. Acheampong acknowledged the disappointment and emotional toll that follow a hard-fought presidential primary loss, a feeling he understands firsthand, having also contested the NPP’s January 2026 flagbearer race. “I speak to you today not as a bystander to our recent contest, but as one who stood in it,” Dr. Acheampong said. He reflected on the party’s defeat in the 2024 national election, emphasizing that the most important task now is to rebuild, reunite, and reclaim power in 2028. While recognizing Kennedy Agyapong’s long-standing loyalty and contributions to the NPP, Dr. Acheampong expressed concern over his recent threats and criticisms. “Ken is a son of this party, a man whose energy, resources, and loyalty over decades cannot be questioned,” he noted. “It is for that very reason that I urge him, respectfully but firmly, to lower the temperature and to lend his considerable influence to the work of healing rather than division.” Dr. Acheampong extended his appeal to supporters on all sides, urging them to avoid actions that could deepen internal divisions. “Let us lay down the weapons of internal warfare,” he pleaded. “Let us close ranks behind our flagbearer so that in 2028 we restore the New Patriotic Party to the service of the people of Ghana.” He concluded by stressing that personal grievances must not be allowed to sideline the party’s recovery efforts, reminding all NPP members that unity remains their best chance for electoral victory. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Kennedy Agyapong Defends Outspokenness Amid NPP Criticism, Vows to Keep Fighting for Accountability

Former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has firmly pushed back against mounting criticism from within his own New Patriotic Party (NPP), declaring that he will not be silenced in his quest to promote good governance and accountability. Agyapong’s latest controversy stems from his outspoken comments on the stalled Afari Military Hospital project. On Net 2 TV, he openly criticized the previous NPP administration for failing to complete and operationalize the hospital during its eight years in power, a move that sparked backlash from some party supporters. Addressing his critics, Agyapong rejected claims that his remarks were fueled by personal grudges or disappointment over past political events. He insisted his motivation is a deep commitment to national development and transparency. “Attempts to portray me as bitter will not stop me from raising issues that are in the public interest,” he asserted. Agyapong went further, questioning the progress of other flagship government initiatives such as the Agenda 111 hospital programme, and alleging irregularities in the award and execution of public contracts. He warned party members not to dismiss his concerns lightly, cautioning that continued attacks on his character could lead him to reveal even more about internal activities within the political establishment. The former lawmaker maintained that questionable practices in public contracting are not unique to any one party, asserting that such challenges have persisted across the political spectrum. For Agyapong, corruption remains a stubborn obstacle to Ghana’s progress, and he emphasized the need for political leaders to be held accountable, regardless of which party they belong to. Kennedy Agyapong concluded by reaffirming his unwavering resolve to speak out on issues affecting the country’s development. He made it clear that criticism, whether from political opponents or his own party, will not intimidate him into silence. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Uncovering the Challenges of Isaac Adongo’s Grinding Mill Projects

Development projects led by Members of Parliament (MPs) are often viewed as lifelines for communities, bridging the gap between local needs and national resources. Beyond their constitutional roles of legislation and oversight, MPs like Hon. Isaac Adongo of Bolgatanga Central have taken on direct intervention projects to address pressing grassroots issues and promote equitable resource distribution. One such intervention, the grinding mill project spearheaded by Hon. Adongo, was envisioned as a beacon of economic empowerment and relief for rural communities. Funded through the MP’s District Assembly Common Fund, the initiative set out to benefit fifteen communities by providing grinding mills to ease economic hardship and support local livelihoods. However, a recent findings by Apexnewsgh has revealed troubling challenges threatening the project’s success. In early June 2026, Apexnewsgh visited nine out of the fifteen beneficiary communities to assess the state of the grinding mill projects. The findings were sobering: all sites visited were either inactive or completely non-operational, each facing unique but significant obstacles. Common issues included: Locked and unused facilities Incomplete machinery installation Mismatched or missing machine parts Lack of electricity supply Buildings without grinding mills or with uninstalled equipment In several cases, facilities stood empty or had equipment that was never commissioned. For instance, at one site, the utility pole intended for power supply lay uninstalled on the ground. At others, critical machine parts were missing or incompatible, rendering the mills unusable from the outset. Community members and Assembly member expressed deep frustration. In Sumbrungu-Atoobisi, Assembly member Hon. Azure Samuel lamented his exclusion from the project’s planning and implementation, highlighting a lack of stakeholder engagement and gaps in accountability. “I have nothing to say because I was not carried along as a community leader,” he said, voicing a sentiment echoed in other communities. The investigation painted a picture of locked doors, silent machines, and mounting disillusionment, a far cry from the promise of economic empowerment. Detailed Findings by Community Sumbrungu-Nyobongo: Facility connected to electricity and fitted with a meter, but not yet linked to the grinding mill. The community awaits final electrical connections; the facility remains locked. Amogrebisi (Atoobisi Electoral Area): Building connected to power and metered, but locked and non-operational. Assembly member unable to give account of the project in his commutiy because he was not consulted on the project. Sumbrungu Akuka Women’s Centre: Machines and electricity are in place, but the motor was yet to be not installed as at the day Apexnewsgh visited. The entrance is secured with stones instead of locks, raising concerns about security and maintenance. Azorobisi: Facility operated only briefly at commissioning before a mechanical fault was detected. Since then, it has remained closed and unused. Kolgo Aguusi: Grinding mill non-operational; community members say parts are faulty and require replacement, despite electricity being connected. Kunbangre: No power connection, no electric meter installed, and the utility pole remains on the ground. The building is painted but unused. Sherigu-Baseongo: Building connected to power, but the grinding mill machine was never installed as at the day Apexnewsgh visited.. Dorongo-Aperika: We observed that the building was powered and metered, but grinding machine parts are mismatched and separated, leaving the machine inoperable. Tindonmolgo: Facility appears ready, with power and meter in place, but remains non-operational as the community plans a meeting to address usage before the official launch. It is important to note that Apexnewsgh was able to visit only nine out of the fifteen planned beneficiary communities; the operational status of grinding mill facilities in the remaining six communities could not be verified. MP’s Response and Acknowledgement Following weeks of findings, Apexnewsgh met Hon. Isaac Adongo during repair efforts at Dorongo-Aperika, where he personally supervised the matching of machine parts and ensured electricity credit was purchased to facilitate repairs. Hon. Adongo explained that while community members were familiar with grinding mill operation, incompatible replacement parts had stalled progress. He pledged to see the machine operational before leaving.   Looking ahead, Hon. Adongo identified the need for comprehensive operator training across all fifteen communities, stressing that each grinding mill required specific operational skills. He called on suppliers to offer in-depth training for local operators, ensuring sustainability and effective use of the facilities. Addressing challenges in Baseongo and Kunbangre, the MP cited site preparation delays and electricity access issues, sometimes caused by land disputes and the need for additional infrastructure. On funding and transparency, he clarified that the project was funded from his common fund in partnership with the district assembly, which maintains detailed financial records. The project’s total cost, according to credible sources, stands at GHS 1,334,443.90, with each unit, including structure, electrification, supply, and installation, costing GHS 88,962.93. Responding to concerns about the exclusion of Assembly members like Hon. Azure Samuel, Hon. Adongo acknowledged the oversight, promising to involve such leaders in future engagements and ensure greater stakeholder inclusion. Recommendations for Project Success To overcome these challenges and realize the grinding mill project’s original goal, the following recommendations are proposed: Strengthen Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Involve Assembly members, community leaders, and local groups in planning, implementation, and monitoring. Regularly update communities on project status and address concerns promptly. Establish a project committee in each community to oversee operations and gather feedback. Complete Installation and Commissioning Conduct a comprehensive audit of all sites to identify incomplete installations and faulty machinery. Work with suppliers and technicians to ensure all machines are properly installed, tested, and commissioned before handover. Resolve Power Supply and Infrastructure Issues Liaise with the Volta River Authority (VRA) for timely power connections. Address issues such as uninstalled utility poles or delayed electrification urgently. Consider alternative power solutions where grid connection is not feasible. Provide Comprehensive Operator Training Organize hands-on training sessions for local operators, tailored to the specific machinery installed. Ensure training covers troubleshooting, maintenance, and safe operation. Establish Routine Maintenance and Rapid Response Mechanisms Set up regular inspection and servicing schedules. Develop clear fault-reporting and rapid repair processes. Allocate a small fund for emergency repairs and spare parts. Promote Transparency and Community Ownership Publicize