Felix Ofosu Kwakye Clarifies Naa Momo Lartey’s Late Arrival at Swearing-In Ceremony

Felix Ofosu Kwakye, acting spokesperson to the president, has provided clarity regarding the late arrival of Gender Minister-designate Agnes Naa Momo Lartey at the swearing-in ceremony on Friday, January 25.

The delay, which sparked public reaction, was due to an unforeseen family emergency and logistical issues stemming from the President’s tight schedule.

Speaking on Accra-based TV3, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye explained that the delay was beyond Naa Momo Lartey’s control. “The delay was caused by the President’s packed schedule, as he was preparing for travel to Angola, Tanzania, and Kenya for official duties. The preceding day was also filled with engagements,” he said.

The swearing-in ceremony was initially set for six ministerial appointees whose nominations had already been approved by Parliament. However, ongoing deliberations in Parliament led to last-minute changes in the schedule.

“We had been liaising with Parliament to see if they could finalise the approval of other nominees. However, by 4 pm, it became clear that Parliament wouldn’t meet the deadline,” Mr. Ofosu Kwakye explained.

Efforts were made to reach out to all the appointed ministers, five of whom were present and could attend the ceremony on time. However, Naa Momo Lartey, due to her family emergency, was delayed.
“She explained that she had to deal with a family situation that took her out of Accra. Despite this, she made every effort to attend, and she arrived just two minutes after the ceremony had started,” he clarified.

The spokesperson urged the public to understand the situation, noting that Naa Momo Lartey’s late arrival was not intentional. “If the public had been aware of the circumstances, they might have been more understanding,” he said.

Mr. Ofosu Kwakye assured that Naa Momo Lartey would be sworn in during the following week, once President Mahama returns.

He also praised her efforts to attend despite the unforeseen situation.

During the ceremony, five ministers were successfully sworn in, including Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak as interior minister and regional ministers Ali Adolf John, John Kwadwo Gyapong, James Gunu, and Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey.

The spokesperson emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring smooth appointments in the future and thanked Ghanaians for their understanding.

acting spokesperson to the presidentFelix Ofosu KwakyeGender Minister-designate Agnes Naa Momo LarteyLate arrival.