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A member of the Council of State representing the Ashanti Region,Mr Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, has issued a strongly worded public statement defending the performance and leadership style of Dr. Frank Amoakohene,Ashanti Regional minister, while criticizing recent remarks made by Sam Pyne, former Kumasi mayor in the erstwhile former President Akufo Addo’s administration.
In a detailed rejoinder titled “Substance Over Spin – ‘TikTok’ to Tangible Results,” Mr. Obimpeh described Mr. Pyne’s characterization of Dr. Amoakohene as a “TikTok minister” as “politically misguided” and an attempt to trivialize what he insists are clear, measurable achievements in the region.
Although acknowledging the traditionally reserved nature of his role on the Council of State, Mr. Obimpeh said he felt compelled to speak out as both a statesman and a committed son of Asanteman.
“You cannot dismiss results as irrelevant and expect the people to forget the evidence,” he stated, emphasizing that modern governance demands accessibility, visibility, and engagement with citizens.
Mr. Obimpeh argued that Dr. Amoakohene’s public engagement, including his use of digital platforms, reflects a broader evolution in leadership rather than a deficiency.
“In today’s governance framework, accessibility is leadership, visibility is accountability, and engagement is essential,” he noted.
He further suggested that the persistent focus on Dr. Amoakohene by political opponents signals his growing influence rather than ineffectiveness.
“When your opponent becomes your headline, it is no longer criticism; it is relevance you cannot ignore,” he added.
Highlighting Development Projects
The Council of State member pointed to several ongoing infrastructure and development projects as evidence of progress under Dr. Amoakohene’s leadership. These include:
Advancement of the Aputuogya 24-hour market initiative
Continued work on the Sewia Hospital and Afari Military Hospital
Redevelopment efforts at Krofrom Market
Upgrading of key bridges at Mpasaso, Kotokuom, and Jacobu
Ongoing urban roads and drainage improvements in Kaase, Ahodwo, and adjoining areas
According to Mr. Obimpeh, these projects demonstrate a leadership approach grounded in delivery rather than rhetoric.
“Development is not declared; it is demonstrated,” he stressed.
Innovation and Cost Efficiency
Beyond infrastructure, Mr. Obimpeh praised what he described as innovative governance under Dr. Amoakohene. He cited the involvement of Senior High School students in beautification projects across major interchanges in the Ashanti Region as a notable example of cost-effective development.
He contrasted this with a previous initiative in Accra, which reportedly cost millions of dollars.
“Leadership is not measured by expenditure but by ingenuity and impact,” he asserted, framing the student-led initiative as a model of community ownership and fiscal prudence.
Critique of Previous Administrations
In a pointed comparison, Mr. Obimpeh revisited concerns associated with Mr. Pyne’s tenure at the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, citing issues such as stalled projects and administrative inertia.
He also referenced the tenure of Simon Osei Mensah, suggesting that the period lacked sufficient visibility and clarity on transformative regional initiatives.
According to him, the current pace of development stands in sharp contrast to what he described as a less impactful past.
Call for Responsible Political Discourse
Addressing recent allegations and political tensions, Mr. Obimpeh urged restraint among political actors and emphasized the importance of due process.
“You do not litigate leadership in the court of propaganda,” he cautioned, calling for credible concerns to be handled through appropriate institutional channels.
He also defended Dr. Amoakohene’s demeanor, describing it as a reflection of youthful energy and accessibility rather than indiscipline.
“Do not mistake proximity to the people for indiscipline, nor charisma for incompetence,” he remarked.
A Generational Shift in Leadership
Mr. Obimpeh concluded by framing Dr. Amoakohene as a symbol of a broader generational shift in Ghanaian leadership—one defined by responsiveness, innovation, and results.
He urged political opponents, particularly Mr. Pyne, to elevate public discourse and focus on measurable impact rather than personal attacks.
“Compare records, not rhetoric. Compete on impact, not insults,” he advised.
As political tensions continue to shape the national conversation, Mr. Obimpeh’s intervention underscores a growing call for issue-based politics—particularly in a region widely regarded as a critical barometer of governance performance.
For many observers, the debate reflects a deeper question: whether Ghana’s political future will be driven by perception or performance.
