An identifiable group aligned with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region has called for an independent and transparent investigation into allegations of misconduct involving the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High School (SHS), Mr. Zakaria Abdulai.
In a statement issued in Kumasi on Friday, October 23, 2026, and signed by its Regional Coordinator, Hon. Kwabena Nsenkyire, the group said the allegations, alongside reports of a student attack on the headmaster and subsequent unrest on the school campus, required urgent attention from the relevant authorities.
The group’s statement follows an undercover investigation by Manasseh Azure Awuni of the Multimedia Group, which it said had raised serious questions about the allegations against the headmaster and the circumstances surrounding the reported incident.
It stressed that the allegations must be investigated fairly and thoroughly, noting that anyone found to have committed wrongdoing should face the appropriate disciplinary or legal consequences, irrespective of political affiliation or position.
However, the group cautioned against prejudging the matter, insisting that the facts must be established through due process and an investigation free from bias.
NPP group raises concerns over alleged political interference
The group expressed concern over reports suggesting that influential figures within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) might be attempting to shield the headmaster from accountability because of alleged political affiliations.
It urged the NDC leadership in the Ashanti Region to publicly demonstrate its commitment to accountability and assure the public that no party official would interfere with the investigation or seek preferential treatment for any individual.
The group warned that any attempt to influence investigators, manipulate evidence or obstruct the process could undermine public confidence in the outcome.
It maintained that student safety and the administration of justice must take precedence over partisan loyalty.
Calls for independent investigation and police action
The NPP-aligned group also called for an independent review of the preliminary investigation committee to ensure that its composition and conduct do not compromise the credibility of the process.
The statement referred to reports that the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) had directed the Ashanti Regional Director of Education, Dr. William Kwame Amankra, and the Obuasi East Director of Education, Mr. Nketia, to step aside from their respective roles to facilitate the investigation.
While acknowledging the reported decision, the group called for further safeguards, including the recusal of any committee member whose involvement could create an actual or perceived conflict of interest.
It emphasised that the call was not intended to punish individuals merely for serving on the preliminary committee, but to ensure impartiality and restore public confidence.
The group further urged the Ghana Police Service to conduct a prompt and thorough criminal investigation into the allegations and take appropriate lawful action where the evidence and applicable legal requirements justify it.
It also called for the preservation of relevant evidence, protection of witnesses against intimidation and appropriate support for affected students.
Student welfare must take precedence
The statement reiterated the importance of creating safe learning environments where students can pursue their education without fear of abuse, exploitation, harassment or intimidation.
The group argued that access to education must be accompanied by adequate protection for students and accountability for school authorities entrusted with their welfare.
It referenced the NPP’s introduction of the Free Senior High School policy as part of its commitment to expanding access to secondary education, adding that educational opportunities must go hand in hand with safety and dignity.
It called on parents, educational authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that students’ welfare remains a shared national responsibility beyond political divisions.
Eight key demands outlined
Among its demands, the group called for an independent investigation into all allegations involving the headmaster, a review of the preliminary investigation committee, prompt police action where legally justified, and measures to protect students and witnesses.
It also demanded a public assurance from the NDC leadership in the Ashanti Region against political interference, the preservation and independent examination of relevant evidence, regular updates from the appropriate authorities, and accountability for anyone found to have committed misconduct or obstructed justice.
The group said the updates should respect student privacy, witness confidentiality and the integrity of the investigation.
In conclusion, it urged the GES, the Ghana Police Service and other relevant institutions to discharge their responsibilities professionally, fairly and without political pressure.
“The protection of students must remain paramount, and the truth must be established through a credible and impartial process,” the statement said.
The statement was issued by the NPP Identifiable Group in the Ashanti Region and signed by its Regional Coordinator, Hon. Kwabena Nsenkyire.
The allegations remain subject to investigation, and no finding of wrongdoing is established by the statement.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
