The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, has advised staff of the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to eschew laziness as he seeks to rally them for effective and efficient administration.

He made this known when he met the staff on Thursday 23rd February as part of his familiarisation programme at the Council.

Mr Osei-Mensah assured the staff of the Council of his readiness to work with them, further promising that he intends to run an open administration, and, therefore, expects same from the staff.

Describing himself as a "free, fair, and strict" person, the minister said he was in to bring his expertise to bear, assuring that he would make sure the people are motivated enough to work with efficiency.

He also promised to allow the systems to work while giving maximum respect to all, irrespective of position.

While urging them to be serious in their line of duty, he was particular about workers' laziness to duty, adding that he would not allow anything or any lazy attitude to cripple what he intends doing for the region and the country.

Mr Osei-Mensah cautioned against the practice of rumour milling, stating that his regime would have no room for such characters so long as he continues to remain minister of the region.

He explained that the major factors that kill efficient running of any organisation and work against cooperation are rumour mongering, bickering, and backbiting, which he indicated his resolve to deal with.

The minister also expressly indicated that his administration would have no room for sycophants. According to him, he is in the region to put in place government's policies and programmes for the uplift of the region, and as such, will not allow any negative mind to "dare try" and poison him.

"As my president is in a hurry to fix the country and restore its glory, so I'm also in a hurry to make sure we succeed together... I, therefore, will not entertain any character that may seem an impediment on my way. We must work for the forward march of this region," he stated.

Earlier, Mr Osei-Mensah met the Regional Security Council to introduce himself to personnel.