Akufo-Addo Retained Me Because He Trusted My Integrity – Simon Osei-Mensah

Former Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah says former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo retained him in office for eight years because of the trust he had in his character, honesty, and record of public service.

Speaking in an interview with Kofi Boakye on Nkwantannanso on Opemsuo Radio, Mr. Osei-Mensah said his relationship with the former President predated his appointment as Regional Minister and was built over years of working together in Parliament.

According to him, former President Akufo-Addo had the opportunity to observe his conduct after he entered Parliament in 2005 and later during his service at the ECOWAS Parliament.

Mr. Osei-Mensah said he believes the former President’s decision to keep him in office throughout his administration was influenced by the trust he had developed in his work ethic and personal values.

“One thing he (Nana Addo Dankwa) appreciated about me was that I always spoke the truth,” he said.

The former Regional Minister revealed that the same advice was given to him by the Asantehene, who encouraged him to remain truthful regardless of circumstances.

“He (Asantehene) told me that my greatest strength was my commitment to telling the truth and urged me never to abandon that principle or change because of people,” Mr. Osei-Mensah recounted.

Reflecting on his tenure, he described the position of Ashanti Regional Minister as one of the most demanding in the country because it requires balancing government administration with the traditional authority system in the region.

According to him, the office demands constant engagement with political leaders, public institutions and traditional authorities, making it a uniquely challenging assignment.

“The work of an Ashanti Regional Minister is very challenging, especially in the Ashanti Region, because you have to balance both the political and administrative structures alongside the traditional leadership system,” he said.

He added that successfully serving in the role for eight years without major disagreements with either the President or traditional leaders was something he regarded as a blessing.

“If you are able to serve as Regional Minister for eight years without having serious issues with either the chiefs or the President, then you should thank God,” he stated.