The newly elected Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, has appealed to media practitioners in the Ashanti Region to support the party’s efforts to reconnect with Ghanaians and project its policies and programmes,essentially Dr.Mahamudu Bawumia, 2028 flagbearer of the party.

He therefore humbly appeals to the members of the inky fraternity (journalists) to forgive the party of any offences or sins they may have committed to lose touch with them and chat a new page for solid partnership in pushing for the Ashanti shared of the national cake.

COKA speaking at the event

COKA, as he’s affectionately called, made the appeal during a press soiree held on Saturday, 22nd August 2026, at Longford Event Centre in Kumasi.

COKA expressed his gratitude to the media in the region for their support during his first attempt to become the Ashanti Regional NPP chairman and recently held election, which led to his election as the chairman. He also acknowledged the significant role of the media in shaping public opinion and influencing national discourse.

COKA urged journalists to give the NPP fair and balanced coverage while highlighting the party’s policies, programmes, and contributions to national development.“Forgive us our sins and project the NPP. I am calling for a stronger and more constructive relationship between the party and the media.”

He said the media was an important partner in the NPP’s efforts to rebuild public confidence and strengthen its connection with Ghanaians, particularly in the Ashanti Region, which has traditionally been regarded as a stronghold of the party.

According to him, the party recognised the need for regular engagement with journalists to promote open dialogue, improve communication, and ensure that accurate information about the NPP reached the public.

COKA expressed his readiness to maintain a cordial relationship with media practitioners and establish regular platforms for interaction between the party and the media.

He said the dinner was intended to create an atmosphere for frank and constructive discussions on issues concerning the NPP, the media, and the development of the country.

The Chairman-elect also encouraged journalists to continue playing their watchdog role by holding political leaders accountable and providing the public with accurate and credible information.

He stressed, however, that issues capable of contributing to the development of the Ashanti Region and Ghana as a whole should receive adequate attention.

COKA said a healthy relationship between political parties and the media was essential to strengthening Ghana’s democracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring that citizens were well informed about policies and national issues.

He therefore appealed to media organisations and practitioners to continue engaging the NPP constructively while maintaining their professional independence and journalistic standards.

The engagement formed part of efforts by the Ashanti Regional NPP leadership to strengthen relations with key stakeholders and create a more open channel of communication with the media.