Former Upper West Regional Minister, Dr Hafiz Bin Salih, has publicly declared his support for Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman, popularly known as Alhaji White, in his bid to become the substantive Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper West Region.
In a strongly worded declaration, Dr Bin Salih said his endorsement is based on Alhaji White’s long-standing commitment, loyalty, experience and leadership within the party, describing him as the most suitable person to lead the NPP in the region ahead of future electoral contests.
According to the former Regional Minister, he has always openly expressed his views on who should lead the party at various levels since becoming politically active in 1992 and sees no reason to depart from that tradition.
“Drawing on my experience as a former party executive and senior government official, I look for specific qualities in the leaders who must guide the NPP at this critical juncture,” he stated.
While acknowledging the democratic right of party members to support candidates of their choice, Dr Bin Salih said he was convinced that Alhaji White possesses the qualities needed to unite and strengthen the party.
Dr Bin Salih reflected on the history of the Upper West NPP, paying tribute to former regional chairmen including the late Alhaji Abdulai Issahaque, Alhaji Abubakar Abdul-Rahman (Chairman Short) and the late Mr S.B. Kangberee, whom he credited with providing stable leadership over the years.
He noted that following the death of Chairman Kangberee in June 2024, Alhaji White assumed the role of Regional Chairman at a difficult period and successfully ensured continuity in the party’s activities.
According to him, Alhaji White should no longer be viewed as merely a caretaker leader but as someone who has earned the right to lead the party in a substantive capacity.
Dr Bin Salih argued that effective leadership is built through years of preparation rather than personal ambition.
He described Alhaji White as a leader who has patiently learned from previous regional chairmen, gaining invaluable experience in managing party affairs, resolving internal challenges and mobilising grassroots supporters.
He also praised Alhaji White’s service as the party’s First Vice Chairman, saying he demonstrated respect for party hierarchy, teamwork and institutional discipline.
“In our cherished Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition, true leaders respect hierarchy and bide their time. Alhaji White has loyally supported those before him, earning the requisite experience to lead our diverse region,” he wrote.
The former Regional Minister further credited Alhaji White with maintaining unity within the regional executive committee following the passing of Chairman Kangberee.
He said Alhaji White has worked to bridge internal divisions while maintaining strong relationships with constituency executives, patrons, elders and grassroots members across the region.
According to Dr Bin Salih, his leadership style has helped preserve cohesion within the party during a challenging period.
Dr Bin Salih also highlighted Alhaji White’s familiarity with all eleven constituencies in the Upper West Region, describing him as an accessible leader who regularly engages polling station executives and local communities.
“He is a leader who visits villages during campaigns, listens to party members and understands the unique socio-political dynamics across the region,” he noted.
Looking ahead to the 2026 regional executive elections, Dr Bin Salih stressed that the NPP requires experienced leadership capable of uniting the party and preparing it for future electoral success.
He cautioned against internal divisions and argued that the party should consolidate around leaders with proven records.
“Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Rahman (Alhaji White) seamlessly bridges our party’s rich traditions with our contemporary goals. He has proven his loyalty and unyielding commitment to the Upper West NPP,” he stated.
Dr Bin Salih therefore urged delegates to reward Alhaji White’s years of service by giving him a full mandate as the next substantive Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party in the Upper West Region.
This version is structured as a balanced news report, attributing all opinions to Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih while maintaining journalistic neutrality suitable for publication.
