Joseph Abaa Akaseke: Bongo DCE dies after short illness

The Bongo District Assembly and the wider Upper East Region have been thrown into mourning following the death of Mr Joseph Abaa Akaseke, the District Chief Executive for Bongo.

Although the exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, the Bongo Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Alhaji Tahiru Aberinga, confirmed his passing to Graphic Online.

Mr Akaseke reportedly died in the early hours of Monday, February 23, 2026, after a short illness at Eastside Life Hospital in Bolgatanga.

News of his death has sent shockwaves across the district and the region, with residents, party members and colleagues expressing deep sorrow over what many have described as a sudden and painful loss.

He was widely regarded as a committed public servant with a strong passion for the development of Bongo and the welfare of its people. During his tenure, he championed improved basic services and consistently advocated greater infrastructural support for the district.

Mr Akaseke worked closely with local authorities and national representatives to address pressing challenges in education, healthcare delivery and access to potable water.

Appointed in April 2025, he secured overwhelming endorsement from Assembly Members during his confirmation, polling 52 out of 54 valid votes, a result seen as a strong vote of confidence in his leadership and vision.

In his confirmation address, he pledged to pursue inclusive and participatory governance to ensure that Bongo secured its fair share of national development resources.

Since news of his passing broke, tributes have poured in on social media, with many recalling his dedication, energetic leadership and efforts to improve livelihoods across the district.