Minority Opposes Approval of Lands and Natural Resources Minister-Designate, Committee Report Reveals

The Minority in Parliament has opposed the approval of Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources-designate, according to the 7th report of Parliament’s Appointments Committee. Despite the opposition, the Committee, by a majority decision, recommended his approval to the House.

The 62-page report highlighted that while the Committee thoroughly assessed the nominee’s responses, vision, and knowledge for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minority members rejected his nomination. The report did not specify the reasons for the Minority’s opposition, but speculations suggest it may be linked to Mr. Buah’s remarks about former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during the latter’s final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 3, 2025.

During his response to the SONA, Mr. Buah had criticized the former President’s tenure, stating, “Mr. President, you will be remembered as the first president who was cushioned by the IMF at the beginning of your term and still being cushioned at the end. You left something important in your account—your promise to God to build a cathedral. I will leave that to you, as it is between you and your God.”

He further remarked, “Let me remind Mr. President that his tenure will remain a timely reminder of how not to govern the country. We can once again rise from the depths of despair and reclaim our glory as the Black Star of Africa.” Quoting Exodus 14:13, he concluded, “Fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. Bye-bye, Mr. President, it is finished.”

During his vetting, Mr. Buah was questioned about these comments and whether he would retract or apologize for them. According to the Committee’s Clerk, Gifty Jiagge-Gobah, the nominee stood by his statement, describing it as accurate and reflective of the circumstances at the time. While he acknowledged that his choice of words might have been perceived as harsh, he maintained that his intention was not to offend the former President but to express his genuine perspective. He added that, given another opportunity, he would have used more appropriate language.

Mr. Buah was vetted alongside three other nominees: Mr. Tia Ibrahim (North East Region), Dr. Frank Amoakohene (Ashanti Region), and Mr. Akamugri Atanga Donatus (Upper East Region). All three were unanimously approved by the Committee.

The report noted that the nominees were evaluated based on their competence, vision, and alignment with national development priorities. It further stated that their responses demonstrated a clear understanding of sector-specific challenges and a commitment to inclusive leadership, emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders across political divides.

Despite the Minority’s opposition, Mr. Buah’s approval by the majority signals his likely confirmation as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. His appointment comes at a critical time as the government seeks to address challenges in the sector and implement policies to promote sustainable natural resource management.

The report’s findings and the ensuing debate highlight the ongoing political dynamics in Parliament as the government works to advance its agenda.