Ndoum Forced To Proceed On Leave?

The Minister for Economic Planning and Regional Integration, Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom has begun a one-week holiday. When the news broke out, it was quickly interpreted to mean that Dr. Ndoum has fallen victim to the “proceed on leave” syndrome, which gained popularity in the early days of the NPP government. The misinterpretation was heightened by the wording of the government’s statement whch indicated that the Minister has begun his ‘leave.’

Government Spokesperson Elizabeth Ohene has however been quick to to dismiss the rumours, explaining that Dr. Nduom requested to be allowed to take one-week out of his annual leave between the 12th and 20th of August.

She told JOYFM that the statement announcing Dr. Ndoum’s leave of absence has been misunderstood, adding that “President Kufuor expects that all Ministers, government appointees and indeed all Ghanaians will take their leave.” The Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Kwadwo Baah Wiredu has been appointed to act in his absence.

Dr. Ndoum was the Convention People’s Party (CPP) Parliamentary candidate for Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abirem in the last elections but lost to the National Democratic Congress candidate Dr. Ato Quarshie. He was appointed by the NPP as part of its “all-inclusive” government policy.