Health Minister Akandoh: “No One Can Shut Down Public Health Facility Without Minister’s Consent

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has defended his actions in the health sector, insisting that no individual has the right to close any portion of a public health facility without the express consent of the state through the minister.

Responding to concerns raised by Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin in Parliament, Hon. Akandoh stressed that the executive arm of government acts with parliamentary authority when executing its responsibilities.

“Mr. Speaker, the minister will determine as and when to come to Parliament to brief Parliament,” he told the House.

The minister referenced a policy directive from President John Dramani Mahama stating that no health facility should turn away emergency cases. He said the President directed that lives must be saved even “on the ground” if necessary, and it is the minister’s duty to implement such policy.

“Let me put on record that nobody, absolutely nobody in this country, has the right to close any portion of a public health facility without the consent of the state, in this case the minister,” Hon. Akandoh said.

His remarks follow criticism from the Minority Leader over recent decisions in the health sector, complaints from doctors, and delays in recruiting health graduates. Hon. Afenyo-Markin had accused the minister of failing to brief Parliament and ignoring official correspondence.

The Health Minister maintained he will appear before Parliament with a comprehensive statement to address all issues raised.