NPP MP accuses Akufo-Addo of prioritizing the appointment of ‘Area Boys’ over Experts

In a no-holds-barred critique, Eugene Boakye Antwi, Member of Parliament (MP) for the Subin constituency in the Ashanti Region, has unleashed a blistering critique on President Nana Akufo-Addo’s choice of ministers, accusing him of appointing unqualified individuals—whom he derisively refers to as “area boys”—instead of competent professionals with real-world experience.

Antwi expressed frustration over the growing trend of appointing individuals to key ministerial roles despite their lack of professional working experience. He argued that many MPs are handed ministerial jobs not because of their expertise but due to their relationships within the party—a practice he believes is detrimental to the nation’s progress.

“There are people in parliament without professional working experience. Some of the work at the ministries is technical, and appointing people who know next to nothing is damaging,” Antwi stated. He emphasized his preference for appointing individuals with proven professional backgrounds, particularly in technical areas that require specific expertise.

Citing the controversial Ameri Deal, Antwi highlighted the need for technically competent individuals in government roles. “Between an MP with working experience and one straight out of school, which would you prefer for a ministerial job?” he asked, underscoring the importance of experience in handling complex governmental tasks.

Antwi didn’t shy away from pointing out the flaws within his party. Responding to former President John Mahama’s recent jibe that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) had boasted about having “the men and women” but instead appointed “area boys,”

Antwi admitted there was some truth to the criticism. “We know we have the men and women, but the competent ones are not being deployed,” he lamented, adding that the issue is not limited to the NPP but cuts across all governments, including the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

He painted a vivid picture of the injustice within the system, describing how seasoned professionals with years of experience, such as a Director at the Roads Ministry, are often overlooked in favor of less qualified individuals. “Well, we don’t like the truth. You’re in the house, and you know what I’m saying is the truth,” he added, calling out the leadership for its misplaced priorities.

In a sharp rebuke to President Akufo-Addo, Antwi accused him of choosing to “govern with area boys,” a decision he believes is holding the country back. As the nation gears up for future elections, Antwi’s candid remarks are likely to resonate with many who feel disillusioned by the current state of affairs.

The presidency has yet to respond to Antwi’s criticisms, but with public dissatisfaction on the rise, the call for competent leadership is growing louder by the day. Meanwhile, Eugene Boakye Antwi is among the many appointees of President Akufo-Addo from his first term.

Should he be considered one of the ‘Area Boys’?

Source: The Hawk