The Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has explained why he declined an appointment during President Akufo-Addo’s Ministerial reshuffle.
In a letter dated February 16, the former Deputy Finance Minister cited two primary reasons for his decision.
Firstly, he emphasized the critical role of Parliament in overseeing matters related to finance and the economy, expressing his belief that he can better support the government’s work from within Parliament.
Secondly, Mr Kwarteng indicated his intention to focus on crafting messages and governance strategies for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly in preparation for the upcoming 2024 general elections, believing himself to be better positioned to fulfill this role as a non-ministerial Member of Parliament.
He, however, expressed gratitude to the President for being considered for the important role in the country’s administration.
On Wednesday, February 14, President Akufo-Addo announced a ministerial reshuffle in his government. This is the first major overhaul since assuming office in January 2017.
The president relieved Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta of his duties and replaced Roads Minister Kwame Amoako-Atta and Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang Manu.
In a big shake-up, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah moves to the Housing Ministry, while his deputy Fatimatu Abubakar takes over as the substantive Minister.
Interior Minister Ambrose Dery has also been reassigned as Minister of State at the office of the President. The recent reshuffle has impacted around 13 ministers of state, comprising 10 cabinet ministers and two regional ministers.
The press release from the presidency detailed the sacked ministers, those reassigned, and newly appointed. This move is seen as a significant development in the government’s restructuring and aims to optimize leadership and governance across various ministries.
