Two Members of Parliament (MPs) nominated to critical ministries declined offers to serve in President Akufo-Addo's government, citing personal reasons.

Sources from the Jubilee House, the official residence and office of the President, have confirmed that Dr Nana Ayew Afriye and Kwaku Agyeman Kwarteng, representing the Effiduase Asokore and Obuasi West constituencies in the Ashanti Region respectively, rejected ministerial appointments extended to them by the President.

Dr. Ayew Afriye, the MP for Effiduase Asokore, was offered the position of Minister of Health but declined the appointment due to his principled stance against the size of the government.

Sources close to him revealed that he has been vocal about the need to downsize the government to curb excessive spending, and his refusal to accept the ministerial offer reflects his commitment to his principles.

The presidency was reportedly surprised by Dr Ayew Afriye's refusal, given his prominent role as the Chairman of the Health Committee of Parliament.

Similarly, Kwaku Agyeman Kwarteng, the MP for Obuasi West Constituency, expressed dissatisfaction with how he had been treated by the President and declined another ministerial position.

Mr. Kwarteng, who previously served as a Deputy Minister at the Finance Ministry, conveyed his contentment with his current role as the Chairman of Parliament's finance committee and opted not to accept a new appointment.

These developments come in the wake of President Akufo-Addo's recent major reshuffle, the first in almost eight years. The reshuffle saw significant changes in key ministerial positions, including the removal of the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, and the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Atta, among others.

In total, 13 ministers and 10 deputies were relieved of their duties, with some being reassigned to different roles within the government.