Minister-Nominees for Regions vetted

Mr Kofi Opoku-Manu, Minister-Nominee for the Ashanti Region, on Wednesday told the Parliamentary Appointments Committee that should he become the political head of the Region he would adopt a management style that would unite the people.

He said despite the fact that the Region was a stronghold of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) it would be in the interest of development for the people to come together as one.

Responding to a question from a committee member about reports of clashes over control of places of convenience in the Region and how he would integrate the Region that largely did not vote for the ruling NDC Government, the Nominee said he would adopt a management style that was not confrontational.

He said all sides of the political divide were needed to bring development to the area and, therefore, there was the need to build consensus in this direction.

Mr Opoku-Manu identified congestions associated with hawkers and traders, using the streets to sell, as one area that needed urgent attention.

In response to steps to stop the recurrence of the recent Baba Yara Stadium disaster involving Hearts and Kotoko, which claimed four lives, the Mr Opoku-Manu said a tough stance must be taken to hold persons responsible accountable.

Mr Kwadwo Nyamekye-Marfo, Minister Nominee for the Brong Ahafo Region, told the Committee in response to a question on Regional Ministers, who controlled District, Municipal and Metropolitan Chief Executives under them that he would give them free hand to work.

He said he would consult with them on critical issues to bring development to the area.

On plans to deal with the forest cover of the Region, which was being depleted and turned into a savannah, he said it would be proper to embark on a re-forestation programme and to enforce laws related to the issue.

Mr Nyamekye-Marfo said the Region had various areas such as the quarry and agro sectors that could be developed to create jobs for the people.