The Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has defended his choice to decline an appointment during President Akufo-Addo’s recent Ministerial reshuffle.
In a letter dated February 16, the former Deputy Finance Minister outlined two key reasons for his decision.
Firstly, he stressed the crucial role of Parliament in overseeing finance and economic matters. He expressed confidence in his ability to more effectively support the government’s efforts from his position in Parliament.
“The role of Parliament in the work of the Executive, especially in matters relating to finance and economy, is critical. It is my humble belief that I can better support the work of government from Parliament,” he said.
Also, Mr. Kwarteng expressed his intention to concentrate on developing messages and governance strategies for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly in anticipation of the forthcoming 2024 general elections.
He argued that he could better fulfill this role as a non-ministerial Member of Parliament. Despite declining the appointment, he conveyed his appreciation to the President for considering him for such a significant role in the country’s administration.
“I am eternally grateful to the President for his fatherly influence on my political career and will always stand ready to support his vision in whatever ways I can,” a portion of the statement read.
On Wednesday, February 14, President Akufo-Addo announced a significant ministerial reshuffle, the first major overhaul since assuming office in January 2017. The reshuffle involved the removal of several ministers from their posts, including Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, Roads Minister Kwame Amoako-Atta, and Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu.
In addition to these changes, the President also accepted the resignation of other ministers, including deputy ministers, and appointed new individuals to some ministries.
One of the notable changes was Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah moving to the Housing Ministry, with his deputy Fatimatu Abubakar taking over as the substantive Minister of Information. Interior Minister Ambrose Dery was reassigned as Minister of State at the office of the President.
Overall, the reshuffle impacted around 13 ministers of state, including 10 cabinet ministers and two regional ministers. The presidency released a press statement detailing the sacked ministers, those reassigned, and the newly appointed individuals.