The Ashanti Regional Representative of the Council of State, Mr Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, has issued a 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 Nana Akufo- Addo’s administration.
In a detailed rejoinder titled “Substance Over Spin – ‘TikTok’ to Tangible Results, on Friday, March 27,2026,” 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 said.
He stressed that modern governance demands accessibility, visibility, and engagement with citizens.
He was of the view 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 observed.
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.
Mr Obimpeh touched on 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.
The Council of State Member said, these projects demonstrate a leadership approach grounded in delivery rather than rhetoric.
“Development is not declared; it is demonstrated,” he stressed.
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.
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, former Ashanti Regional Minister under Nana Akufo-Addo administration, 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.
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 institution.
By Benjamin Aidoo
