Akufo-Addo included more women in governance – Filson Awankua

Filson Awankua, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper East Region, has praised former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his commitment to promoting women from the region in government appointments.

His comments follow President Mahama’s nomination of only two women out of 15 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the region. He said the current number is “appalling” compared to previous administrations.

In an exclusive interview with Mike FM, Awankua expressed disappointment that President Mahama’s administration has reduced women participation in key government positions.

he posited that under Akufo-Addo’s leadership, three women were appointed as MMDCEs in the region in each of his two terms, alongside a female regional minister. Awankua believes this reduction indicates a lack of confidence in women from the Upper East Region.

“In gender terms, Akufo-Addo was a bit satisfactory, and we were hoping John Mahama would increase the number but not decrease it, decreasing it means he doesn’t have confidence in the women of the Upper East Region or he doesn’t see them fit enough to head various government institutions.” he said.

Awankua emphasized that societies with limited women’s participation in leadership roles hinder development. He noted that women have always been the backbone of society, successfully managing households and institutions.

He, therefore, urged President Mahama to consider more women from the Upper East Region in future appointments, promote gender equality and empower women in leadership positions.

“We come from the women of this world, and since creation, women have always been the bedrock and cornerstones of the strength of society.”

“They [Women] are the people who manage our homes, and if a woman can manage our home successfully, why can’t she manage institutions successfully?”

Mike 105.3 FM| Navrongo|Alexander Bombande