Nabdam MP Nawaane Inspects 24-Hour Economy Market Project, Urges Contractor to Deliver Quality Work
The Member of Parliament for the Nabdam Constituency, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, has inspected the ongoing construction of the Nabdam 24-hour economy market project, a flagship initiative under the John Dramani Mahama-led NDC administration. The visit was aimed at assessing the progress of work and encouraging the contractor, Mac-Deen Ghana Limited, to maintain high standards and ensure the timely completion of the project. Dr. Nawaane expressed satisfaction with the level of work undertaken so far by the contractor, but urged the company not to become complacent. He encouraged Mac-Deen Ghana Limited to focus not only on completing the project but also on delivering a quality, world-class facility that would serve the people of Nabdam for years to come. According to the MP, projects of this nature provide Ghanaian contractors with an opportunity to demonstrate their capacity and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development. He also appealed to wealthy Ghanaians and local businesses to invest their resources in Ghana rather than moving their capital abroad. “Nobody is coming to develop this country for us. We have to develop our country ourselves. We’ve got to put in the resources,” Dr. Nawaane said. He urged Ghanaians with financial resources and expertise to invest in local industries, create jobs and help generate wealth within the country. Dr. Nawaane further challenged the contractor to view the Nabdam project as an opportunity to build a strong reputation that could lead to future contracts. “Don’t get swollen headed. Make sure that it is not just a matter of doing the work, but doing it very well,” he advised. The MP explained that quality delivery on the project could serve as an advertisement for the contractor and position the company for similar projects in the future. He also expressed appreciation to President Mahama for the vision behind the 24-hour economy initiative and urged the contractor and its workers to put in the necessary effort to ensure that the project becomes a reality. Contractor Promises Timely Completion A representative of Mac-Deen Ghana Limited assured Dr. Nawaane and the people of Nabdam that the company was committed to delivering the best possible project. The representative disclosed that the project was expected to be completed within 24 months, although ongoing rainfall had affected the pace of construction. He assured the MP that the contractor had several projects at various stages of completion but remained committed to handing over the Nabdam 24-hour economy market to the people as promised. “We want to assure you that this project will be completed and handed over to you,” the representative said. The contractor also expressed the hope that, by God’s grace, Mac-Deen Ghana Limited would be among the first contractors to successfully complete and hand over a 24-hour economy market project to its beneficiaries. The Nabdam market project is expected to provide modern commercial infrastructure and support economic activities in the constituency as part of the government’s broader 24-hour economy agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Chief Justice’s Remarks and Tours of State Institutions Stir Controversy
A wave of controversy has swept through Ghana’s political landscape following remarks by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who questioned the country’s progress over the past eight years during visits to state-owned institutions, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Ofoase-Ayirebi MP, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah. The Chief Justice made headlines on Wednesday, September 2, while visiting the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), where he lauded the institution’s achievements under the current administration. “I must congratulate you. I mean, you have done marvellously well… sometimes when we hear the things that you have done, the things that some organisations are doing now, we wonder; some of us keep wondering what really we have been doing in the past eight years,” he remarked, appearing to contrast recent performance with that of the previous administration. Earlier in the day, the Chief Justice had visited the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), expressing similar praise for its current operations and drawing attention to past management decisions. “If you compare that to the fact that not too long ago, SSNIT was preparing to sell its prized assets like Labadi Beach Hotel, you wonder how Ghana could have sunk so low,” he noted. These comments, coupled with the Chief Justice’s ongoing tours of state-owned enterprises, have provoked concern from Mr. Oppong Nkrumah. The MP questioned the appropriateness of such visits, noting, “For all the years that I have followed politics and governance, I haven’t heard of such that the Chief Justice will be touring state-owned enterprises. I haven’t heard of that before.” He emphasized the traditional independence of the Judiciary from the Executive and Legislature, arguing that judges typically avoid public and political engagements. “It is a well-known, established practice that the Judiciary doesn’t mingle, so you don’t see judges going around mingling in public,” Mr Oppong Nkrumah said. He further described the situation as “absolutely shocking” and “unprecedented,” expressing bewilderment at both the nature of the Chief Justice’s remarks and his involvement with state institutions. “If upon that now there are official tours that are going on, it’s bewildering, and then I find it strange to hear some of these comments being made by the Judiciary,” he concluded. As debate swirls around the Chief Justice’s actions and statements, questions are being raised about the separation of powers and the evolving role of the Judiciary in Ghana’s public life. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Presidency Announces Impending Shake-Up of SOE Leadership
The Presidency has signaled a major shake-up at the highest levels of Ghana’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), with an impending reshuffle of Chief Executives on the horizon. In a formal notice addressed to Ministers and political appointees, Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, underscored that the imminent changes, following recent ministerial appointments and the dissolution of selected boards, reflect President John Mahama’s drive to reinforce institutional leadership and sharpen government coordination. “The recent ministerial changes and the dissolution of selected boards, together with the impending reshuffle of Chief Executives, reflect the President’s determination to strengthen institutional leadership, enhance coordination and ensure that every appointee remains fully aligned with the Government’s policies and priorities,” the statement read. The notice stressed that all Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Chief Executives, Board members, and other political appointees are expected to serve with integrity, diligence, humility, and strict adherence to administrative procedures. It warned that any conduct undermining governmental cohesion, institutional authority, or effective policy implementation would not be tolerated. Appointees were reminded that holding public office is both a privilege and a duty to the Ghanaian people. The Presidency made clear that performance will be closely monitored across all sectors, and President Mahama stands ready to take further action to uphold the integrity and effectiveness of his administration. “As we work together to deliver the Government’s mandate and improve the lives of the Ghanaian people, I urge all appointees to cooperate and commit fully,” the statement concluded. This latest move comes after a series of warnings from President Mahama. In March 2025, he cautioned SOE CEOs that their positions depended on performance and alignment with his administration’s reset agenda. The following year, he intensified the pressure, directing CEOs to submit overdue audited accounts and annual reports or risk dismissal, making compliance a key performance indicator. The announcement also follows the release of the State Interests and Governance Authority’s (SIGA) 2025 State Ownership Report, which provides an assessment of the financial and operational health of SOEs, joint ventures, and other state entities. As the reshuffle approaches, all eyes are on who will remain at the helm of Ghana’s major public enterprises and how these changes will shape the future of state-owned institutions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Christian Council Calls for Unity to Revive National Cathedral Project
In a renewed bid to breathe life into the long-stalled National Cathedral project, the Christian Council of Ghana is urging the government to put aside political differences and rally support for its completion. The call came from Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Council, during a courtesy visit to Mahama Ayariga, Ghana’s newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Seated across from the minister, Rev. Dr. Fayose emphasized the willingness of both Ghanaian Christians and international partners to contribute to the project, if only the government would help clear the political fog surrounding it. “What we need is the blessing of the state,” Rev. Dr. Fayose declared. “We take away all the politics surrounding the building of the National Cathedral. I think it can be done by the grace of God.” He described the cathedral as a potential cornerstone of Ghana’s religious and cultural heritage, and urged the minister to create the conditions for work to resume. Despite the controversies, ranging from management and funding to the suitability of its location, Rev. Dr. Fayose sounded a note of optimism, invoking faith that the project could still be realized. Minister Ayariga responded with support for the cathedral’s vision but reiterated his long-standing concerns about its location. He recalled his time as an opposition MP, when he and other Minority members objected to plans to clear judicial residences to make way for the cathedral. “At the time that the initiative started, I was part of the minority in parliament that really felt that it wasn’t the right location and it wasn’t the right thing to demolish all the Houses of the judges,” Mr. Ayariga explained. He noted that the affected properties were home to senior members of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. Despite these reservations, the meeting ended on a conciliatory note, with both the Council and the minister recognizing the cathedral’s potential national importance. As the debate over the project’s future continues, the Christian Council’s plea for unity and government support may mark a turning point for the ambitious but troubled endeavour. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Akanbange Nsobila Nelson ‘Brainbox’ Officially Declares Intent to Contest NDC Deputy Communication Officer Position
Akanbange Nsobila Nelson, popularly known as “Brainbox,” has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Deputy Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Bolgatanga Central Constituency. In his declaration, Mr. Nsobila appealed to Electoral Area Coordinators, Polling Station Executives, party elders, youth and women’s wings, communicators, constituency executives and the entire NDC rank and file for their support. According to him, his decision is driven by his commitment to the party and years of experience serving at various levels of the NDC. He highlighted his previous roles, including serving as TEIN Deputy Secretary at St. John Bosco’s College of Education, Navrongo, during the 2015/16 academic year, and as a two-term Branch Secretary since 2018. Mr. Nsobila also noted that he has been a member of the Constituency Communication Team since 2017, a member of the Regional Communication Team since 2019, and a member of the Regional Youth Working Committee since 2023. He further served as a party agent at Pobaga Tua No. 1 during the 2016, 2020 and 2024 general elections, experiences he says have given him a strong understanding of grassroots party organisation and communication. Explaining his motivation, Mr. Nsobila said he intends to bring experience, fresh ideas and modern communication skills to the constituency’s communication structures. He pledged to help strengthen the party’s communication systems, counter misinformation, engage effectively with the rank and file and contribute to the NDC’s efforts toward securing victory in the 2028 general elections. Mr. Nsobila concluded by humbly appealing to party members for their blessings, support and votes as he seeks to serve the party in the capacity of Deputy Communication Officer. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Nabdam Health Summit Targets 2,000 Residents for Free Eye Screening, Surgeries
The Member of Parliament for Nabdam Constituency, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, has spearheaded a major health outreach programme aimed at improving access to healthcare and eye treatment for residents of the Nabdam District. The initiative, dubbed “Health Summit 2026,” was organised in partnership with the Heaven of Love Children’s Foundation and seeks to provide free health screening and specialised eye care to thousands of people across communities in the district. Speaking at the opening of the summit, Dr. Nawaane said the initiative builds on previous interventions he had undertaken in the constituency to address common medical conditions. According to him, he had returned to Nabdam on about three or four occasions to perform surgeries for hernias, hydroceles and other minor ailments, resulting in approximately 900 operations over three visits. “Through these interventions, we have practically eliminated hernias and hydroceles in Nabdam. While isolated cases may still exist, reports of these conditions have dwindled to the point where no one comes forward to complain about them anymore,” he said. With significant progress made in addressing those conditions, Dr. Nawaane said the focus had now shifted to primary healthcare, eye diseases and other conditions that contribute to vision loss. He explained that participants would be screened for diabetes, hypertension and eye-related conditions, which are often interconnected and can contribute to serious vision problems. “Our goal now is to screen residents for diabetes, hypertension, and eye diseases, conditions that commonly cause vision problems in our part of the country,” Dr. Nawaane said. He added that the exercise would enable health professionals to identify people requiring specialised treatment and subsequently bring ophthalmologists and other specialists to provide the necessary care. Dr. Nawaane expressed the hope that by November, at least 300 residents of Nabdam would benefit from eye surgeries conducted by medical teams from Accra, Kumasi and the United States. He said the mass approach was adopted after years of encountering constituents seeking financial assistance to travel to health facilities for eye treatment. “Over the past decade as MP, I have often encountered people seeking help for eye problems, many requesting funds to visit clinics. This time, we decided to organise and appeal to NGOs and non-state actors to address the problem collectively, rather than helping individuals one at a time,” he explained. The MP thanked the Haven of Love Students Foundation, as well as the District and Regional Health Directorates, for supporting the initiative. The CEO and Founder of the Haven of Love Students Foundation, Samuel Nana Bekai Djirackor, said the foundation’s intervention was motivated by the healthcare challenges confronting rural communities in northern Ghana. He said the foundation deliberately focuses on rural communities because of limited access to specialised healthcare and the shortage of medical professionals in some parts of the country. “Our foundation is rural-centred because we understand the unique challenges of healthcare in the Upper East and the northern parts of Ghana,” Mr. Djirackor said. He noted that in some areas, the doctor-to-patient ratio could be as high as one doctor to 30,000 people, making access to quality healthcare particularly difficult. The foundation has therefore partnered with ophthalmic nurses, health professionals from district hospitals and specialists from major teaching hospitals, including Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, to extend healthcare services to underserved communities. Mr. Djirackor said the partnership with Dr. Nawaane had allowed the foundation to expand the exercise from a single-community intervention to a wider six-community programme over six days. The exercise began at Sakoti and is expected to end at Pelingu, with the organisers targeting more than 2,000 people for screening. Beyond eye examinations, participants are also being screened for underlying conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can contribute to vision impairment. The organisers intend to compile a list of people requiring specialised eye treatment and subsequently organise free cataract and other eye surgeries later in the year. Mr. Djirackor said the Nabdam outreach was part of a broader commitment by the Haven of Love Students Foundation to improve healthcare delivery in rural Ghana. Since 2017, he said, the foundation had organised similar programmes across the Upper East Region, providing screening and treatment for conditions including eye diseases, hernias, post-polio paralysis, cancer and dental problems. He cited a recent intervention in the Bawku West District, where the foundation screened about 1,500 people, with 300 subsequently receiving cataract surgeries. According to Mr. Djirackor, the foundation’s volunteers and medical professionals offer their services without financial compensation, driven by patriotism and their desire to support vulnerable communities. “Our volunteers and doctors serve without pay, motivated by patriotism and the love of Christ. We want to be a blessing to these communities,” he said. The programme, he added, is not restricted to residents of Nabdam. Ghanaians from other parts of the country, as well as people from neighbouring Burkina Faso who can access the designated screening centres, are also welcome to participate. The initiative underscores the growing importance of collaboration between political leadership, health institutions, civil society organisations and medical professionals in tackling healthcare challenges in underserved communities. Through the Health Summit 2026, organisers hope to identify and treat residents suffering from preventable or treatable conditions while creating a pathway for sustained access to specialised healthcare in Nabdam and beyond. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Urges Swift Action on AU Peace Fund for Sustainable Conflict Response
Former President John Dramani Mahama has called for urgent action to speed up the African Union Peace Fund’s resource mobilisation strategy, emphasizing the need for the effective implementation of the 0.2% import levy. According to President Mahama, this is crucial to securing sustainable and predictable financing for Africa’s peace and security initiatives. He made the call while addressing the 21st Extraordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government on Sunday, August 30. President Mahama highlighted the persistent and evolving nature of conflicts across the continent, noting that these challenges demand stronger enforcement of existing peace and security mechanisms. “The effectiveness of our peace architecture will depend not only on better coordination but also on reliable and predictable resources to support timely interventions,” President Mahama stated. He underscored that early warning systems must be matched by early action, which in turn requires that resources be available when needed. President Mahama welcomed the progress made in operationalising the AU Peace Fund and reaffirmed his support for its continued capitalisation towards the $1 billion target. He also advocated for greater resource mobilisation from within Africa, including financial institutions, the private sector, and other indigenous sources, to reduce dependence on external funding and enhance the continent’s capacity to manage conflicts. With his remarks, President Mahama urged African leaders to prioritise the Peace Fund’s full implementation to strengthen Africa’s ability to respond to security challenges on its own terms. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Disregard The Reported 8pm Deadline On Events–Bolgatanga Assembly
The Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly has dismissed reports suggesting that it has imposed an 8pm deadline on events and ceremonies held within the municipality. The clarification follows a report by local radio station Dreamz FM claiming that the Assembly had introduced an 8pm cut-off time for activities including passing-out ceremonies and launching events. The publication subsequently gained widespread attention on social media and was attributed to the Assembly’s Presiding Member. However, in a statement issued on Sunday, August 30, 2026, the Management of the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly said the report does not represent its official position. According to the Assembly, although it has an existing by-law concerning nocturnal ceremonies, an amendment made in September 2024 was aimed specifically at restricting persons below 18 years from attending social gatherings beyond midnight. The Assembly further explained that its regulations must align with prevailing government policies, including the 24-Hour Economy initiative, and therefore cannot introduce by-laws or resolutions that contradict such policies. Management consequently urged the public to disregard the reported 8pm deadline, stressing that there is no blanket 8pm restriction on events and ceremonies within the Bolgatanga Municipality. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
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