Kwaku Kwarteng, Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, has provided reasoning behind his decision 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 primary factors guiding his choice.

Firstly, he underscored Parliament’s crucial role in overseeing finance and economic matters, expressing his conviction that he can effectively support the government’s initiatives from within the parliamentary setting. “The role of Parliament in the work of the Executive, especially in matters relating to finance and the economy, is critical. It is my humble belief that I can better support the work of government from Parliament,” he stated.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7my7HeJcRIKByeIzlfScpsKVcx6e3kF/view

Secondly, Mr. Kwarteng revealed 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. He asserted that he sees himself as better positioned to fulfill this role as a non-ministerial Member of Parliament.

While declining the appointment, he expressed gratitude to the President for considering him for such a significant role in the administration of the country. “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,” read a portion of the statement.

The ministerial reshuffle, the first major overhaul since assuming office in January 2017, saw President Akufo-Addo relieving Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta of his duties and making changes to other key positions.

https://drive.google.com/file/u/0/d/13Dcfa3BgKBXJbpKJLzSVf82oSQpWQlBY/view

The reshuffle impacted around 13 ministers of state, comprising 10 cabinet ministers and two regional ministers. The press release from the presidency detailed the dismissed ministers, those reassigned, and newly appointed officials.