The opposition, National Democractic Congress(NDC) has directed it’s Members of Parliament not to take part in the vetting of newly appointed ministers by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

In a press release dated February 19, signed by secretary Fiifi Kwetey, the party explained that the decision is aimed at pushing  for the reduction in the size of the current government.

The NDC stated that, the party together with other civil society organisations have on numerous occasions expressed concern over government’s size but the President has yet to act on the calls for a reduction.

“The leadership of the NDC, has, against this backdrop, directed the Minority caucus in Parliament not to approve any of the new ministerial nominees and to further push for a reduction in the size of government with a view to reducing the needless drain on scarce public resources.”

“In this moment of haircuts, the most important thing the government can do is to do a “governmental haircut”. Our directive to the Minority in Parliament, we believe strongly aligns with the genuine sentiments of most Ghanaians. Enough is enough,”  the statement stated.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, announced that President Akufo-Addo had nominated the Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa, K.T Hammond as the Minister for Trade and Industry with the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah serving as his deputy.

The Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong was also appointed as the Minister for Food and Agriculture.

Stephen Asamoah Boateng was appointed as the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs among others subject to the vetting and approval of Parliament.

The Appointments Committee of Parliament scheduled today, Monday and Tuesday to consider and approve the nominations of the President.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme