NPP Ahafo demands dismissal of MCE over 'useless creation' comment

The Ahafo Regional Communications Team of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), led by Regional Communications Director Alfred Asiedu, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider the continued stay in office of the Asunafo North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Joseph Akparibo, over comments attributed to him concerning the creation of the Ahafo Region.

The Communications Team described as unacceptable the MCE’s alleged reference to the Ahafo Region as a “useless creation”, arguing that the comment undermines the aspirations of the people and the years of advocacy that culminated in the region’s establishment.

According to the team, the creation of Ahafo Region was achieved through years of sustained efforts by traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society organisations and residents across the political divide.

It therefore considers the alleged remarks particularly inappropriate coming from a public official whose mandate includes promoting development and protecting the interests of residents.

The NPP Communications Team is demanding that Hon. Akparibo publicly clarify the comments and render an unqualified apology to the chiefs and people of Ahafo, as well as other stakeholders who contributed to the campaign for regional status.

The team has also appealed to President Mahama to consider removing the MCE from office if he refuses to retract the statement and apologise.

It stressed that public officials are expected to respect the history, identity and collective aspirations of the communities they serve.

Hon. Joseph Akparibo was unanimously confirmed as Asunafo North MCE in April 2025 after securing the support of all 42 Assembly Members present.

The NPP Communications Directorate further cautioned against allowing political differences to diminish the significance of Ahafo’s regional status.

While acknowledging that concerns over the pace or distribution of development in the region may be legitimate, the party said such concerns could be raised without questioning the validity or importance of the region’s creation.

The party has consequently urged the MCE to withdraw the alleged comment, apologise to the people of Ahafo and work with stakeholders to promote development across the region.