Aggrieved Talensi Youth Question NDC Communication Officer Over Road Project Materials
Talensi, Upper East Region, Some outspoken youth in the Talensi Constituency have expressed concern over the progress of the Tongo-Sheaga-Duusi Road project, questioning an earlier communication by the NDC Constituency Communication Officer, Mr. Michael Nangena, regarding the arrival of construction materials. The youth’s concerns followed a video shared by Mr. Nangena showing a long vehicle loaded with what was described as formwork materials intended for the road project. According to the youth, the communication created the impression that the materials would soon arrive in Talensi and facilitate the commencement of construction activities. However, after about a week, some of the youth took to social media to question the whereabouts of the vehicle and the apparent lack of visible construction activity at the project site. They argued that the situation raised concerns about whether political leaders were prioritising publicity over tangible development, particularly regarding the constituency’s long-standing road challenges. “It is becoming painfully clear that our leaders are playing political games with the development of Talensi,” some of the youth stated in their social media reactions. The youth also recalled concerns they had previously raised following the sod-cutting ceremony for the Tongo-Sheaga-Duusi Road. They claimed that weeks after the ceremony, the project site appeared deserted, with little visible activity at the contractor’s camp. They maintained that residents were looking beyond ceremonial events, photographs and political statements and wanted to see sustained construction work leading to the completion of the road. The youth further cautioned political leaders against taking the constituency’s electoral support for granted, pointing to Talensi’s long-standing support for the National Democratic Congress since 1992. “If these roads are not fully tarred before 2028, consider your time in office over,” the youth warned, stressing that their concerns were centred on development rather than partisan politics. They added that residents would ultimately use their votes to assess the performance of political leaders and determine who deserves their support in future elections. However, responding to the concerns when contacted by ApexnewsGh, Mr. Michael Nangena, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Talensi Constituency Communication Officer disputed the youth’s claims, explaining that the materials in question had already arrived. According to him, the materials were not meant to be permanently stored at the contractor’s camp because they were specifically intended for the construction of culverts. He explained that transporting the materials to the camp and subsequently moving them back to the work location would serve no practical purpose. “The equipment has since arrived, but it seems people didn’t notice,” Mr. Nangena said. He added that the materials were being used for the construction of culverts and therefore did not necessarily have to be moved to or stored at the contractor’s camp. “There’s no logic in moving them to and from the camp unnecessarily,” he explained. Mr. Nangena further urged those questioning the development to verify the situation directly with the contractor, Araco, before drawing conclusions or publishing claims on social media. He accused the aggrieved youth of failing to make the necessary enquiries before taking their concerns to social media, saying their approach could lead to misinformation being circulated among residents. The differing accounts have now generated renewed debate among residents over the progress of the Tongo-Sheaga-Duusi Road project, with the youth demanding visible development while the constituency communication officer insists that work-related materials have arrived and are being deployed for construction purposes. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nearly 30 Years of Service Drive Yaa Amponsah Frimpong’s NPP First Vice Chair Bid
In politics, some journeys are built on loud declarations and dramatic moments. Others are forged quietly, through years of commitment, sacrifice, organisation and an unwavering belief in a cause. For Mrs. Yaa Amponsah Frimpong, popularly known as Obaa Yaa, the journey has been one of the latter. The current Chairperson of the NPP-USA Branch has formally declared her intention to contest the position of National First Vice Chairperson of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the party’s forthcoming National Executive Officers Elections scheduled for October 3, 2026. Her decision, she says, is not one born out of political convenience or sudden ambition. Rather, it represents the culmination of nearly three decades of active engagement with the party and a period of deliberate preparation for greater responsibility. “I make this declaration with full understanding of the weight of the office I seek, the sacred trust it demands of its occupant, and the depth of service it requires of anyone who dares to hold it.” For Obaa Yaa, leadership is not simply about occupying an influential position. It is about offering service, stability and direction at a time when she believes the party needs to rediscover its identity, strengthen its structures and prepare strategically for the future. A Childhood Experience That Shaped a Political Conviction Her political story began long before she became a party executive. Born Yaa Amponsah Gyamerah (Frimpong) in Obuasi, Ghana, she grew up in a community shaped by mining, industry and the everyday realities of Ghanaian society. But it was growing up during the PNDC era that left perhaps the deepest political impression on her. She witnessed neighbours and members of the wider community experience what she describes as public humiliation, kangaroo tribunals and exile, with families left behind to bear the consequences. For a young Yaa, these were not distant political stories appearing in newspapers. They involved people she knew and communities she belonged to. Those experiences helped shape a conviction that would eventually guide her political life: that politics must ultimately be about protecting people, defending justice and building a society where citizens can live with dignity. “Justice was denied them… These injustices were the driving force of my interest in politics. I was determined not to let that happen without a fight,” she recalls. Interestingly, she narrowly missed the 1992 voter registration exercise, having turned 18 shortly after the deadline. Rather than allowing that missed opportunity to discourage her, it strengthened her determination to participate in Ghana’s democratic process. In 1996, she cast her first vote for the NPP. That first vote would become the beginning of a political commitment that has now stretched across almost three decades. Nearly 30 Years of Showing Up From her early involvement to leadership at the international branch level, Obaa Yaa’s political career has been defined by progression through party structures. Her record includes serving as Chapter Secretary, Second Vice Chairperson, Acting Chairperson, and eventually Chairperson of NPP-USA, a position she has held for two terms since 2018. She has also served at the Colorado Chapter level for three terms and participated as a delegate in the party’s National Flagbearer Elections in 2014, 2024 and 2026. Beyond internal party administration, her political engagement has included leading NPP-USA ground campaigns in Ghana during four general elections and contributing more than US$1 million, according to her campaign profile, towards the party’s electoral mission. For her, these experiences provide more than credentials. They represent years of learning about party organisation, mobilisation, fundraising, campaign strategy and the responsibilities that come with leadership. Beyond Politics: Service Through Healthcare Perhaps one of the less conventional aspects of Obaa Yaa’s political journey is her interest in healthcare and community service. She is the founder of the NPP Global Medical Team, an initiative focused on providing healthcare support to communities across Ghana. The initiative, according to her profile, reflects her broader understanding of political service: that party leadership should ultimately translate into tangible benefits for communities and ordinary citizens. It is a philosophy that appears to underpin her campaign for national office. Four Pillars for a Renewed NPP At the heart of Obaa Yaa’s campaign is a four-point agenda built around Identity, Structures, Direction and Resources. Rediscovering the NPP’s Identity She wants the party to reclaim what she describes as its identity as a centre-right political organisation, firmly rooted in the traditions and philosophies associated with Danquah, Busia and Dombo. For her, rediscovering that identity is essential to giving members and supporters a clear understanding of what the NPP stands for and where it is headed. Rebuilding Party Structures Obaa Yaa believes a strong national party must begin at the grassroots. Her vision therefore places emphasis on rebuilding robust structures from the polling station to the national level, ensuring that the party’s foundation remains strong enough to support its national ambitions. Providing Clear and Data-Driven Direction In an increasingly sophisticated political environment, she argues that the NPP must evolve into a modern, 21st-century political organisation. That, she says, requires clear direction informed by data, research and evidence rather than assumptions. Building Sustainable Resources No political organisation can function effectively without resources. Obaa Yaa’s approach, however, calls for resource mobilisation that is democratic, transparent and dignified, while resisting what she describes as the corrosive culture of monetisation. Her message is clear: the party must develop sustainable mechanisms for financing its activities without compromising its values or internal democracy. A Candidate Promising Calm Rather Than Conflict Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Obaa Yaa’s declaration is the tone. She does not present herself as a candidate coming to disrupt the party or compete with its leadership. Instead, she describes herself as a potential “pillar of comfort”—someone prepared to complement the party’s leadership with steadiness, wisdom and calm purpose. “I present myself to you not as a voice of discord, but as a pillar of comfort. Not to compete with the bold vision of our party’s leader, but to complement that vision with steadiness, wisdom, and calm purpose.” That
Alhaji Dr Hafiz Bin Salih Joins Shaykh Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid in Historic NPP Nomination Walk
In a momentous show of unity and party spirit, Alhaji Dr Hafiz Bin Salih, Former Regional Minister (Upper West/East) and Former Upper West Regional 1st Vice Chairman, has recounted his distinct honour of walking alongside Shaykh Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid and other patriots from Nima Roundabout to the National Headquarters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The occasion marked Shaykh Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid’s official filing of nomination forms to contest for the position of National 1st Vice Chairman in the upcoming NPP national executive elections. Alhaji Dr Hafiz Bin Salih described Shaykh Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid as the very embodiment of a Scholar, Statesman, and Servant. Having observed his commitment and dedication firsthand, Dr Salih expressed unwavering confidence in Shaykh Dr Abdul-Hamid’s leadership, capability, and vision for the party. “When I believe in a cause, I go all out to ensure success, and supporting a leader of his integrity and proven track record is a conviction I hold wholeheartedly,” Dr Salih affirmed. He concluded with a heartfelt prayer, hoping that Allah would crown their collective dedication with a resounding victory, rewarding the efforts of all involved. The walk and nomination filing stand as a testament to the party’s unity and the enduring spirit of service among its leaders. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Accra High Court Denies Adjournment Request Tied to Appeal, Grants Delay on Health Grounds
In a dramatic turn at the Accra High Court, a plea by lawyers representing Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba to postpone his trial until October 19 was turned down. The request was based on a pending application for a stay of proceedings at the Court of Appeal. However, the High Court made it clear that simply applying for a stay does not mean the trial must pause. Despite this, the court showed compassion when counsel for the accused presented medical reports detailing health concerns. Accepting these reports, the judge agreed to adjourn the case, but not as long as initially requested. The new dates set for the trial are September 29 and 30, 2026. Hanan Abdul-Wahab and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni, are currently facing 11 serious charges, including causing financial loss to the state and money laundering. The legal battle continues, with the next chapter scheduled for late September. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Presbyterian Moderator Urges Political Will and Unity to End Galamsey
The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has called on the government to show decisive political will to end illegal mining, known as galamsey, which continues to devastate communities and pollute water bodies across the country. In an interview with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Rt. Rev. Dr Kwakye stressed that the government possesses both the authority and capacity to eradicate galamsey, but must act with determination. “Government has the political power. It also has the might to crush galamsey. If government wants to crush galamsey, government is able to,” he stated. Highlighting the environmental and economic toll of illegal mining, he pointed out that vast sums are spent on water treatment due to pollution, while mining communities are left in ruins. “The communities where mining is taking place are getting destroyed. And our waters are polluted. And we spend huge amounts of money to treat water,” he noted. The Presbyterian Church, he explained, has long raised concerns about galamsey and continues to use its platform for advocacy. This year, the Church’s annual symposium was moved to Tarkwa, a mining hub, to give participants firsthand experience of the effects of illegal mining. The event was followed by the National Red Sunday campaign, which further spotlighted the crisis. Rt. Rev. Dr. Kwakye called on all Ghanaians to unite in the fight against galamsey, warning that its consequences stretch far beyond mining communities. “We sit in Accra, there’s no galamsey going on here, but we are all reaping from what is happening in these places,” he said. He urged a bipartisan, non-partisan approach to the problem, insisting that environmental damage does not respect political affiliations. “The water that is polluted does not ask whether your lips are NDC or New Patriotic Party. They don’t seek your partisan colours,” he remarked. Addressing calls for a state of emergency, Rt. Rev. Dr. Kwakye said he prioritises tangible results over declarations, emphasising the need for effective enforcement and real environmental restoration. “I want results, not just a state of emergency… What we are seeking is for this nation to do what is right. And for this nation to be united. And that is why we are asking for a bipartisan approach. It’s important that we save ourselves,” he concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Backs Bawku Revitalisation Committee to Lead Area’s Recovery
President John Dramani Mahama has voiced strong confidence in the newly inaugurated Bawku Revitalisation Committee, tasking its five members with spearheading the recovery and redevelopment of the conflict-affected Bawku area. The committee’s mandate is to accelerate infrastructure rebuilding and foster economic renewal, paving the way for residents to restore their livelihoods after years of instability. The initiative is a key component of government efforts to reestablish normalcy in Bawku and its surrounding communities, focusing on repairing damaged infrastructure, boosting local economic activity, and laying the groundwork for sustainable development. Chaired by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the committee also includes Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga, the Tamapani Chief Cletus Abugre, Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga, and Garu MP Thomas Anaba. Together, they are expected to oversee the revitalisation fund and direct resources to priority projects identified as crucial to the area’s recovery. During the committee’s inauguration on Wednesday, August 26, President Mahama emphasized that the government’s ambitions extend beyond physical reconstruction. “Now we have the opportunity to go back and continue the development so that the people of the area will benefit from all the projects that we have been doing so that Bawku will get its fair share of the national cake. The revitalisation fund will go to the provision of infrastructure and any other areas that the committee deems fit,” he stated. He affirmed his full trust in the committee members, praising their integrity and track record in public service. “I have absolute confidence in the membership of the committee and I know that they will handle this assignment with the usual integrity and efficiency that they have shown in their public service over the years,” President Mahama said. The Bawku Revitalisation Committee is poised to play a pivotal role in restoring hope, stability, and prosperity to a region long plagued by conflict, with the government’s backing to ensure tangible and lasting improvements for its people. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chamber of Mines CEO Hails New Gold Refining Directive as Boost for Local Value Creation
The Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) has issued a new directive requiring all self-financing aggregators (SFAs) to refine gold doré locally before export, in a move welcomed by industry leaders as a major step toward retaining more value within Ghana’s borders. In a notice to SFAs, GOLDBOD announced that no gold doré shall be exported in its unrefined state going forward. The directive also stipulates that every offtake agreement or commercial arrangement between an SFA and an approved offtaker must specifically include a clause mandating the refining of all gold doré in Ghana prior to export. Reacting to the development on TV3’s Ghana Tonight programme, Ghana Chamber of Mines CEO Ing Ken Ashigbey described the policy as a positive move, noting its alignment with existing arrangements for large-scale mining companies. “It’s one of the positive steps that we’re taking,” he said, referencing the current agreement requiring 30% of large-scale mine doré to be refined locally and, in partnership with London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) refineries, sold to the Bank of Ghana as part of reserve accumulation. Ashigbey expressed optimism that extending similar requirements to artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) gold would enhance value retention. “If we’re going to get to that point, then the issue about value retention would improve,” he stated. He also highlighted the potential for the 30% arrangement to help local refineries build capacity and eventually achieve LBMA accreditation, further boosting local industry. However, Ashigbey cautioned that Ghana’s refining sector must continue to modernise and improve its competitiveness. “There are things that we need to do to make sure that our refinery in this country is also competitive, so that if we are refining in this country, we’re doing that very competitively,” he advised. The new GOLDBOD directive marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to add value to its gold exports and promote the growth of local refining capacity, with stakeholders hopeful it will lead to increased economic benefits for the nation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Gas Charts Expansion Path, Eyes Onshore Pipeline to Boost Power and Industry
The Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) is gearing up for a major expansion drive, aiming to reinvest its strong financial gains to boost operational efficiency and make gas more accessible for power generation and industry. Chief Executive Officer Judith Adjobah Blay announced that the company’s next focus will be on expansion and reinvestment, following its recent financial success. “That is the next phase, beyond profit, there is expansion and reinvestment into Ghana Gas,” she stated. Central to these plans is a proposed onshore pipeline project that would stretch from Takoradi to Tema, extending the supply of gas from the Atuabo processing facility beyond the Western Region. The pipeline would traverse the Central and Eastern regions, ultimately reaching the industrial hub of Tema. GNGC anticipates that the expanded infrastructure will support industrial growth along the pipeline’s route by making gas more available to businesses and factories in those areas. The company’s ambitious expansion plans were showcased during an industrial tour by the commissioners and management of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), GNGC’s economic regulator. Richard Kirk-Mensah, Head of Corporate Communications at Ghana Gas, said the visit provided PURC with an invaluable opportunity to witness the company’s operations and expansion projects firsthand. “Their visit aims to give them insight into Ghana Gas’s operations, particularly the expansion projects at their sites. Rather than just presenting slides and discussing verbally, allowing them to see the facilities and the ongoing work firsthand will give them a better understanding of the company’s plans and activities,” Kirk-Mensah explained. With its sights set on expansion and reinvestment, Ghana Gas is positioning itself as a key driver of Ghana’s industrial and power sectors, promising increased availability and reliability of gas supply for years to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament to Probe $1.7 Billion Gold Board Loss, Summon GOLDBOD CEO
Parliament is set to open an inquiry into the reported US$1.7 billion loss recorded by the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). The move follows a formal motion filed by the Minority Caucus, seeking a parliamentary investigation and the summoning of GOLDBOD Chief Executive Sammy Gyamfi to provide explanations regarding the controversial transactions. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin confirmed the development, stating that parliamentary scrutiny would help clarify whether the reported $1.7 billion (GHS22 billion) constitutes a genuine financial loss or a policy-related cost associated with the DGPP’s implementation. “With the motion they have filed, which was received in my office on the 21st of August, 2026, just three days ago, I have gone through the motion myself and I intend to admit the motion because we have to at least have an end to litigation as to whether it’s a loss or it’s a cost,” he said. Bagbin explained that the parliamentary process would allow lawmakers to thoroughly examine the issue and bring clarity to the public. He added that Ghanaians would have the opportunity to follow the proceedings and form their own informed opinions. “This House will have the opportunity to go through it. And please, Ghanaians are very intelligent people. They will listen, they will read in between the lines and they will make their decisions,” he said. The upcoming inquiry is expected to provide much-needed transparency and accountability on the financial management of the DGPP and the reported multi-billion dollar loss. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Security Coordinator Calls for United Front Against Political Vigilantism
Ghana’s National Security Coordinator, COP Osman Abdul Razak, has called for stronger preventive action and closer collaboration among security agencies, private security firms, and local communities to combat political vigilantism and safeguard the nation’s democracy. Speaking at a National Policy Dialogue organised by Election Watch Ghana on August 25, 2026, COP Abdul Razak addressed the evolving landscape of political mobilisation in Ghana. He warned that while the visibility of vigilante groups may have diminished, the underlying threat remains, with some networks now operating through less visible and more informal channels. “We must not mistake the reduced visibility of these groups, regardless of their name, as meaning the threat has disappeared. Mobilisation has shifted to local businesses, private security arrangements, and other informal channels,” he cautioned. COP Abdul Razak stressed the importance of intelligence-led, early-warning systems, arguing that prevention, not just reaction, must be central to Ghana’s fight against political violence. “Prevention must remain at the centre of our approach to political violence. It is far easier to act when inequalities are emerging than to dismantle entrenched foundations of our political system,” he said. He urged full utilisation of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), to detect and address threats early. He also underscored the crucial role of private security firms and communities as partners in maintaining security, provided they operate within the law and complement state authority. “Private security companies and communities must become part of the security architecture. But they must operate within the law and in a manner that complements, rather than substitutes for, the legitimate authority of the state,” COP Abdul Razak emphasised. He further highlighted the need to de-politicise enforcement and link it to broader legal and systemic reforms. The National Policy Dialogue, attended by security officials, politicians, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders, focused on reviewing the implementation of Act 999 and strengthening Ghana’s ability to prevent political violence and protect its democratic foundations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com