Initial Steps to Recalibrate the NPP’s Compass for a Positive Outcome in the 2028 General Election–Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih
“When wealth becomes the primary yardstick for choosing our executives, the party itself becomes poorer” These words strike at the very heart of a growing vulnerability within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). As the party works to consolidate its structures, break new ground, and restore its historical fortunes, it faces a critical internal crossroads. The creeping trend of commercialising political leadership, where deep pockets routinely outvote genuine commitment, is an existential threat to the party’s grassroots foundation. The destiny of the NPP is in the hands of those who elect our leaders at the various levels of the executive structure of the party. They must rate competence, loyalty, and commitment to the principles and ideals of the NPP over any other considerations when electing party leaders. When financial capability becomes the sole determinant for entry into leadership, the party compromises its collective future. To build an unshakeable political force capable of winning hearts, minds, and elections, they must urgently shift their focus from wealth back to party loyalty and commitment. When leadership seats go to the highest bidder rather than the most capable strategist, the entire party organisation pays the political cost: Disenfranchisement of the Grassroots: Dedicated organisers who have sacrificed for years feel alienated when sidelined by affluent newcomers who lack a history of local service. Loss of Organic Connection: Wealth can buy visibility, but it cannot buy genuine fellowship. Leaders chosen primarily for their resources often struggle to connect authentically with the everyday realities of ordinary voters. Strategic Deficit: A political party run purely on financial patronage eventually runs dry of intellectual and organisational depth. Money cannot replace strategic planning, conflict resolution, or policy articulation. To continue down this path is to throw caution to the wind, trading long-term institutional stability for short-term material convenience. Restoring the NPP to its glory days requires an uncompromising return to meritocracy. It is my conviction that the evaluation of prospective party executives must be anchored on five non-negotiable pillars: Competence: The proven capacity to manage party administrative structures, resolve internal frictions, and effectively outmanoeuvre political opponents. Mobilisation Power: True leadership is measured by the ability to inspire people to willingly invest their time, energy, and personal resources into the party’s vision. Sacrifice: A documented history of standing firmly with the party during challenging periods in opposition, not just showing up to reap the rewards of incumbency. Empathy: The willingness to listen to, validate, and address the genuine anxieties and frustrations of party stakeholders and foot soldiers. Track Record: A verifiable legacy of loyalty, reliability, and tangible contributions to the growth of the party at the local level. The NPP has a proud legacy of political resilience, intellectual fortitude, and community-first principles. Allowing this rich history to be replaced by a transactional political culture weakens the party from within and damages its credibility with the broader electorate. The time has come for delegates, elders, and stakeholders to do the needful. Reclaiming the soul of the party demands the courage to look beyond immediate material inducements and vote for sustainable institutional strength. By prioritising competence and character over financial influence, the NPP can rebuild an authentic, energised, and unified front ready to restore the party to its rightful glory. Let’s do this together. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Path of Tested and Trusted Continuity: Why Alhaji White is the Safe Pair of Hands for Upper West NPP– Dr Hafiz Bin Salih
Every political party at its crucial turning points must choose between two paths: the path of experimentation or the path of tested, loyal continuity. As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper West Region prepares to elect a new crop of regional executives in 2026, we stand at one of these vital crossroads. To look back at our history in the region is to look at a lineage of formidable, steady leadership. From the foundational years of the late Alhaji Abdulai Issahaque (1992–2005), to the transition to Alhaji Abubakar Abdul-Rahman (Chairman Short, 2005–2018), and through the resilient stewardship of the late Mr S.B. Kangberee (2018–2024), our party’s progress has always been steered by figures of deep loyalty and institutional memory. When Chairman Kangberee unfortunately passed away in June 2024, the mantle of leadership fell upon the Regional 1st Vice Chairman, Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman, affectionately known to us all as Chairman White. In a moment of grief and potential transition anxiety, Alhaji White stepped forward, stabilised the party, and ensured that the work of the NPP in the Upper West Region continued without a single step backwards. As we look toward the future, it is clear that Alhaji White should not merely be a transitional figure. He has earned the right, through decades of quiet service, profound loyalty, and peerless apprenticeship, to be granted a full tenure as our substantive Regional Chairman. An Apprenticeship of Loyalty and Humility Leadership is not a role one should rush into without preparation. Alhaji White’s greatest asset is that he has learned at the feet of giants. He did not seek the chairmanship out of personal ambition; rather, he spent years studying the administrative styles, the unifying strategies, and the grassroots mobilisation techniques of the regional chairmen who came before him. By serving loyally as the 1st Vice Chairman, he proved that he understands the value of subordination, patience, and teamwork. In Ghanaian politics, and particularly within our cherished Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition, respect for hierarchy and patience are the ultimate hallmarks of a true leader. Alhaji White has waited his turn, supported his superiors unconditionally, and absorbed the wisdom required to govern a diverse and politically competitive region. A Unifier in Times of Transition Taking over a political structure mid-stream after the loss of a sitting chairman is one of the most delicate tasks in party politics. It requires a calm temperament, a listening ear, and an inclusive heart. Alhaji White stepped into the vacancy left by Chairman Kangberee not with a spirit of disruption, but with a commitment to preservation and unity. He has kept the regional executive committee cohesive, bridged gaps between various factions, and maintained open communication channels with our constituency executives, patrons, elders, and the grassroots. A vote for Alhaji White is a vote to maintain this hard-won stability. Deep Grassroots Connection You cannot lead the Upper West NPP from an ivory tower. To win elections in our region, a chairman must understand the unique socio-political terrain of all eleven constituencies, from Lambussie to Wa West, and Lawra to Sissala East. Alhaji White is a man of the people. His accessibility is legendary; his doors have remained open to party faithful of all social standings. Because he has walked the dusty roads of our villages during campaigns, sat in the local parlours, and listened to the concerns of our polling station executives, he possesses the authentic empathy needed to re-energise our base. A Safe Pair of Hands The year 2026 is a defining moment for our party in the region. As we prepare to win some parliamentary seats and consolidate our gains, we cannot afford factional friction or the steep learning curves of untested leadership. Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman (White) represents the bridge between our rich party heritage and our modern electoral aspirations. He offers us a safe pair of hands, an unblemished record of loyalty, and a heart dedicated entirely to the service of the Upper West NPP. Let us honour his years of dedication, reward his patience, and secure our party’s future in the region. It is time to give Chairman White a full, well-deserved mandate. Let us elect Alhaji White as our substantive NPP Regional Chairman for the Upper West Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament Passes Tribunals Bill, 2026, Paving Way for Judicial Reform
Parliament has passed the Tribunals Bill, 2026, clearing the path for the re-establishment of tribunals under a new legal framework designed to improve access to justice. The historic moment unfolded on Thursday, July 16, as lawmakers gathered for the third reading of the Bill. After a robust debate, Members of Parliament adopted the legislation, bringing the months-long parliamentary process to a close. The Bill now awaits President John Dramani Mahama’s assent before it becomes law. The day’s proceedings were marked by a critical intervention from Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine. Recognizing the urgency of the reforms, Dr Ayine requested the House to waive the Standing Orders that typically require a one-day interval between the consideration stage and the third reading. Parliament responded positively, granting the request and allowing the Bill to proceed immediately to its final stage. Dr Ayine first introduced the Tribunals Bill earlier this year, presenting it as a cornerstone of broader justice sector reforms. He emphasized that the new tribunal system would come with stronger constitutional safeguards, aiming to improve access to justice, reduce delays in case resolution, and enhance the efficiency of Ghana’s courts. Following its introduction, the Bill was referred to Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee as well as the Judiciary Committee for detailed scrutiny. After careful examination and debate, the committees returned the Bill to the House, where MPs gave it their final approval. Once signed into law by the President, the Tribunals Bill, 2026 will provide the legal foundation for the re-establishment of tribunals, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s ongoing effort to reform and modernize its judicial system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Pledges Unbiased Development for All Regions at Juapong Groundbreaking
Chiefs in regal attire, market women with hopeful smiles, energetic youth groups, and residents from all walks of life gathered as President John Dramani Mahama arrived to break ground on a project many had awaited for years: the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Market. But the day was not just about bricks and mortar. Standing before the crowd, President Mahama addressed a concern that has echoed across Ghana’s regions for years, the perception that national development favors certain areas based on how they vote. With conviction, he declared, “Let me assure you that this government that I lead does not regard the Volta Region merely as a region of loyal political support. We reject the notion that any part of Ghana should be taken for granted or left behind because of its electoral choices.” He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness and equity, emphasizing that every citizen, regardless of location or political affiliation, deserves equal opportunity. “Our mandate given to us by the people of Ghana is to govern the country for every Ghanaian and our commitment to the Volta Region is founded on fairness and equity,” he said. The Juapong market project is part of a broader government plan to modernize trading infrastructure, boost trade, create jobs, and extend economic activity beyond the usual working hours in key commercial hubs. For the people of the South Tongu District, the event was more than a ceremony, it was a promise that their region, like all others, would not be left behind. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Cabinet Reverses Course: Achimota Forest to Regain Full Protected Status
It was a decision that sent ripples through Ghana’s environmental and civic circles. On May 1, 2022, Executive Instrument 144 (E.I. 144) came into effect, carving out 361.5 acres, about 146 hectares of the cherished Achimota Forest from its protected status. Detailed survey maps outlined the precise areas to be removed, raising alarm among environmentalists and citizens alike. The move triggered immediate and widespread debate: many feared that lifting protection would open the door to commercial and residential projects, threatening one of Greater Accra’s last urban forests. Environmental advocates, civil society organisations, and concerned residents spoke out, warning of the consequences for the city’s ecological balance and the generations to come. Now, the tide has turned. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced a dramatic policy reversal: Cabinet has ordered the immediate repeal of Executive Instrument 144. This decision clears the path for Achimota Forest to be fully restored to its original status as a Forest Reserve. The revocation also covers subsequent amendments, such as E.I. 234, ensuring that every acre previously excised will once again be protected. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized that the government’s priority is to safeguard Achimota Forest, highlighting its critical role in protecting Accra’s environment. The forest, he noted, is not just a green space, it is a vital ecological buffer for the capital, supporting biodiversity, enhancing air quality, absorbing carbon, regulating temperatures, and serving as a beloved recreational haven for city dwellers. With this decision, Achimota Forest is set to remain a sanctuary for both nature and people, securing its place in the heart of Accra’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Paul Afoko Forgives NPP Over Suspension, Urges Unity Amid Party Challenges
A national chairman aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Afoko, has declared that he has forgiven those involved in his suspension from the party, despite initially feeling anger and disappointment over the decision. Afoko was suspended as NPP National Chairman in October 2015, a year after his election, following a recommendation from the party’s Disciplinary Committee and subsequent approval by the National Executive Committee (NEC). During the formal launch of his chairmanship bid and vision for the NPP on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Afoko reflected on the emotional impact of his suspension. “I wouldn’t lie that I wasn’t angry at some point. I was. Because I was angry that a mandate given to me by the party was yanked away from me by a few people,” he admitted. However, Afoko emphasized that he had moved on, stating, “I have forgiven completely. God knows my heart. My heart is clean and clear.” Afoko stressed that the party’s current challenges require members to put aside personal grievances and focus on collective recovery. “The state of the party will not allow us to dwell on emotions. Emotions must give way to thinking, to strategic thinking, to how we can help our party to come out of this situation,” he said. He cautioned against negative factionalism, warning that internal divisions could undermine the NPP’s prospects. “Anybody who sits within this party and thinks that factionalism is good for the party, and I mean the negative aspects of factionalism, that person doesn’t love NPP,” Afoko noted. He urged for healthy debate within the party, arguing that respectful disagreements can generate stronger policies and strategies. Reflecting on the NPP’s declining parliamentary seats in recent elections, Afoko said the party must prioritise unity over personal differences. “We came from 169 seats to 137 to 87. Is this a wonderful place to be for the NPP? It cannot be,” he said, calling on members to work together to rebuild the party. “As a party, let’s be true to ourselves. Let’s be truthful and speak to each other with love and understanding that we want to bring ourselves out of this hole in which we are,” Afoko urged. “I’m ready to serve. There’s no more bitterness. There’s no more anger.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
EOCO Links Dennis Miracles Aboagye’s Arrest to GH¢55 Million Financial Probe
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has revealed that the recent arrest of Dennis Miracles Aboagye, former Executive Secretary of the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCCoD), is connected to alleged financial and procurement-related irregularities involving approximately GH¢55 million. Aboagye was arrested along with Gerald Appiah, the former accountant of the IMCCoD Secretariat, following ongoing investigations into suspected misappropriation, misapplication, diversion, and theft of public funds at the Secretariat. EOCO’s statement, issued on Monday, July 13, 2026, explained that the probe was initiated after the current Executive Secretary of IMCCoD petitioned for further inquiries into a forensic audit covering August 1, 2022, to February 2, 2025. According to EOCO, Aboagye, Appiah, and others are being investigated for offences including conspiracy to steal, using public office for profit, causing financial loss to the State, fraud, and money laundering. EOCO stated that Aboagye was arrested after new findings emerged last week regarding suspected fraud and theft. The agency noted that Aboagye was already aware of the investigation and had previously visited EOCO. He was placed on a stop order a week prior to his arrest but had left the country. Upon his return at the Accra International Airport on Saturday, July 11, Immigration officers executed the stop order and handed him over to EOCO investigators on Sunday morning. Aboagye subsequently accompanied EOCO officials on a search operation, which is ongoing. EOCO confirmed that he would be granted bail according to Ghanaian law. Appiah is also expected to complete bail procedures and be released as investigations continue. EOCO disclosed that Appiah has voluntarily begun refunding funds linked to the alleged offences but clarified that such recoveries do not conclude the investigation or absolve suspects of wrongdoing. The agency assured the public that investigations would be conducted professionally and impartially, with respect for the constitutional rights of all involved. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Okatakyie Kwame Afrifa Mensah Hospitalised Under Police Guard After Election Disturbances
Police in the Ashanti North Region have confirmed that media personality Okatakyie Kwame Afrifa Mensah and another suspect, Osman Awuni, are under police guard at the Mampong Government Hospital following disturbances during the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Ejura Sekyedumase East Constituency executive elections at Wiamoase. According to a statement from the Ashanti North Regional Police Command on Monday, July 13, both Afrifa Mensah, 43, and Awuni, 44, complained of ill health after their arrest on Sunday, July 12, and were admitted for treatment. “The two suspects remain under police guard while receiving treatment. Investigations are ongoing, and the public will be updated on any further developments,” the statement said. Afrifa Mensah was arrested with six others after a violent disruption at the SDA Church polling station, where the constituency elections were taking place. Police allege that at about 7:45 a.m., Afrifa Mensah led about 30 men to the polling station. When questioned by security personnel, the group allegedly became aggressive, attacked police officers, and disrupted the process by throwing electoral materials on the ground. The remaining members of the group reportedly fled, and police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend them. Preliminary police investigations revealed that Afrifa Mensah claimed some of his supporters had been sidelined in the electoral process and that he had secured an interlocutory injunction to halt the elections. However, police and the Electoral Commission reported that no such court order or injunction had been received. Calm was eventually restored after police intervention, allowing voting to continue under tight security. The election ended peacefully at about 4:00 p.m., with the Electoral Commission duly declaring the results. The Ashanti North Regional Police Command has assured the public that investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided as the case progresses. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP to March to EOCO Over Arrest of Dennis Miracles Aboagye
The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has announced that the party will march to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on Monday, July 13, to demand answers regarding the arrest of Dennis Miracles Aboagye. Nana Boakye stated that the demonstration aims to seek clarity on the circumstances of Miracles’ arrest, which the party views as an attempt to intimidate opposition members. Speaking to the media, he alleged that Miracles was detained without any prior invitation or notice from EOCO about an investigation or alleged misconduct. He voiced concern over what he called the growing use of state institutions to harass political opponents, arguing that such tactics threaten Ghana’s democratic values. “Miracles has not received any invitation from EOCO. He has not been informed of any wrongdoing. He has not been told that he is under any form of investigation,” Nana Boakye said. He emphasized that while the NPP supports accountability and will cooperate with legitimate investigations involving its members, due process must be observed. His remarks follow a Facebook post by the NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, who claimed that Dennis Miracles Aboagye was arrested by EOCO officers, assisted by Immigration officials, at the Accra International Airport. The post indicated that Miracles’ lawyers have been denied access to him, his whereabouts are unknown, and no charges have been filed. As of publication, EOCO had not publicly commented on the arrest or responded to the allegations from the NPP. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah Remains in Police Custody After Arrest at NPP Elections
The communications team of broadcaster and political commentator Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah has confirmed that he remains in police custody at the Asante Mampong Divisional Police Command following his arrest on Sunday. In a statement titled “For The Records” and shared by the team, it was revealed that Afrifa was arrested at about 7:40 AM. According to the team, Afrifa’s family, lawyers, and campaign team were not informed of his whereabouts for several hours after the arrest, causing anxiety among his supporters. He was eventually transferred to the Asante Mampong Divisional Police Command around 5 PM, where he remains in custody pending what the team described as “further lawful processes.” The communications team clarified that Afrifa was accompanied by peaceful, unarmed supporters and denied allegations of his involvement with any vigilante group. The statement also alleged that four members of Afrifa’s team sustained severe gunshot injuries during the incident and are currently receiving treatment. The team urged supporters and the public to remain calm and law-abiding, expressing confidence that due process would be followed. Further updates, they said, would be communicated through Afrifa’s legal representatives and authorised spokespersons. Background Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah was arrested during disturbances at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency executive elections in Afigya Sekyere East, where violence broke out. Reports indicate that Afrifa had gone to the election venue to present a court injunction to halt the process over concerns about the delegates’ register. The situation escalated into chaos, prompting police intervention and his subsequent arrest. Afrifa is also reported to have intentions to contest for the parliamentary seat in the Afigya Sekyere East constituency. Source: Apexnewsgh.com