The resignation of Dr. Matthew Opoku-Prempeh as Minister for Energy has prompted President Akufo-Addo to appoint Samuel A. Jinapor, the current Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Damongo Constituency, to assume Cabinet oversight responsibility for the Energy Ministry.

Dr. Opoku-Prempeh, who was recently named as the running mate to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Candidate, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is set to resign from his ministerial position effective July 18, 2024.

This strategic move allows him to concentrate on the upcoming elections and support the NPP's bid to extend their governance.

In a statement released by the Presidency on July 11, 2024, Communications Director Eugene Arhin confirmed President Akufo-Addo’s acceptance of Dr. Opoku-Prempeh's resignation and the subsequent reassignment of duties.

The President expressed gratitude for Dr. Opoku-Prempeh's dedicated service and noted his significant contributions in both the education and energy sectors.

Samuel Jinapor’s new oversight role at the Energy Ministry comes alongside his current duties as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

The statement also mentioned that Hon. Herbert Krampah, the Minister of State designate for the Ministry of Energy, will handle the day-to-day administration of the Energy Ministry.

This latest assignment is the third instance where President Akufo-Addo has entrusted Mr. Jinapor with additional ministerial responsibilities.

Previously, following the resignation of the former Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. John Allan Kwadwo Kyerematen, in January 2023, Mr. Jinapor served as the caretaker Minister for Trade and Industry for three months until Hon. K.T. Hammond assumed the position in April 2023.

Earlier this year, during a ministerial reshuffle in February, Mr. Jinapor was also appointed as the caretaker Minister for the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), pending the parliamentary approval of the then Minister-designate, Ophelia Mensah Hayford. These appointments underscore the government’s confidence in Mr. Jinapor's capabilities.

During his brief tenure at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr. Jinapor championed crucial policy initiatives, including advocating for a Consumer Protection Law and the establishment of a Consumer Protection Agency.

In a policy statement to Parliament, he emphasized the inadequacy of common law remedies under contract and tort in protecting consumers' rights.