In a surprising twist to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s recent ministerial reshuffle, information emerging from the Jubilee House reveals that two Members of Parliament (MPs) have Declined Ministerial Positions in Akufo-Addo’s Government after Reshuffle. Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye and Kwaku Agyeman Kwarteng, representing Effiduase Asokore and Obuasi West constituencies in the Ashanti Region respectively, have both rejected the president’s invitation to join his government, citing personal reasons for their decisions.
Dr. Ayew Afriye, who was proposed for the Ministry of Health, has been a vocal critic of the size of the president’s government. Known for his principled stance, Dr. Afriye believes that the government should be downsized to reduce spending. His refusal to accept the ministerial position underscores a significant disagreement with the administration’s approach to governance, particularly in terms of its size and expenditure.
Sources close to Dr. Afriye suggest that his decision not to join the cabinet was a shock to the presidency, especially given his role as the Chairman of the Health Committee in Parliament. His expertise and leadership in health matters would have been a valuable asset to the Ministry of Health, making his refusal a notable loss for the government.
On the other hand, Kwaku Agyeman Kwarteng, who served as a Deputy Minister at the Finance Ministry during President Akufo-Addo’s first term, has expressed his dissatisfaction with how he has been treated by the president. Despite his previous contributions, Mr. Kwarteng feels sidelined and has decided not to accept another ministerial position. He has indicated his preference to continue his work as the Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, a role he finds fulfilling and impactful.
This rejection of ministerial roles by two MPs is unprecedented and highlights underlying tensions within the ruling party. It raises questions about the cohesion and unity of the government’s team and the satisfaction of its members with their roles and the administration’s direction.
On February 14, 2024, President Akufo-Addo announced his first major cabinet reshuffle in almost eight years, affecting several key positions. The reshuffle saw the removal of the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, and the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, among others. In total, 13 ministers and 10 deputies were either relieved of their duties or reassigned to different roles within the government.
The refusal of Dr. Afriye and Mr. Kwarteng to accept their ministerial nominations is a significant development in Ghanaian politics. It not only reflects individual convictions and grievances but also points to broader issues of governance, such as government size and the treatment of political appointees. As the reshuffled cabinet takes shape, the focus will be on how these rejections impact the government’s ability to implement its policies and maintain unity within its ranks.
SHARE OUR POST ON Two MPs Who Declined Ministerial Positions in Akufo-Addo’s Government after Reshuffle.
From news to politics, travel to sport, culture to Entertainment news – GhanaEducation.org has a host of articles to suit your interests. To find the stories you want to read, and more, click here