The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed profound sorrow over the untimely death of Saabanye Basilide Kangbere, the Upper West regional chairman of the Party, who passed away on 7 June 2024.
In a press statement signed by the general secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP extends its deepest condolences to his family, especially his wife, and children, and to the people of the Upper West Region for the loss of such a distinguished figure.
As a tribute to his memory, the NPP has directed that all party flags fly at half-mast for the next seven days.
Kangbere, affectionately known as “Chairman Heavy Weight” in political circles, has been the regional chairman since 2018 and previously served as a patron of the regional party.
Kangbere’s journey to prominence began in Owlo, a small town in the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa district of the Upper West Region, where he excelled in his Common Entrance Examinations.
His academic prowess led him to the prestigious Daffiama Secondary School, followed by a distinguished performance in his sixth-form examinations.
He furthered his education at a College of Education and later at the University of Ghana, where he majored in English.
During his time at the University of Ghana, Kangbere developed a fervent passion for politics and social issues, joining student activist groups.
As secretary of the Students Representatives Council, he collaborated with notable figures such as Frederick Worsemao Armah Blay from 1977 to 1978, opposing the imposition of the Union Government (UNIGOV) by the Supreme Military Council of Ignatius Kutu Acheampong. This resistance was crucial in preventing Ghana from becoming a non-party state.
Beyond politics, Kangbere had a rich career in education and business, teaching in several deprived communities in the Upper West Region, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia.
He also established several English teaching schools in Saudi Arabia, some of which remain operational today.
A devoted Catholic, husband, father of five, and noble family man, Kangbere’s legacy is one of dedication, hard work, and profound impact.