Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah faced opposition from the Minority in Parliament over his approval as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

The 7th report of the Appointments Committee of Parliament reveals that while the Committee carefully reviewed Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah’s responses, knowledge, and vision for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minority opposed his approval. Despite this, the report notes that the Committee, by a majority decision, recommends his approval as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

Although the report did not specify the reasons behind the Minority’s opposition, there is speculation that it may be linked to his response regarding how he addressed former President Akufo-Addo after the latter’s State of the Nation Address (SONA).

After former President Akufo-Addo delivered his final State of the Nation Address, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah remarked that the former president would be remembered as “the first president who was cushioned by the IMF when you began, and you are still being cushioned at the end of your term.” He also referenced Akufo-Addo’s promise to build a cathedral, saying, “You left something very important in your account which is an account of your promise to God to build him a cathedral, but I will leave that to you because it is between you and your God.”

Buah further criticized Akufo-Addo’s tenure, stating, “Let me remind Mr. President that his tenure in office will remain a timely reminder of how not to govern the country. We can once again gain a brighter future from the trolls of despair. Together we will work hard to lift ourselves from this historic low and reclaim our glory and place as the black star of Africa.”

Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, addressing the final moments of President Akufo-Addo’s tenure, quoted a passage from Exodus 14:13, saying, “And Moses said unto the people, fear you not, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord which he will show you today. For the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you shall see them no more.” He concluded his statement with, “Bye bye Mr. President, it is finished.”

Mr. Buah concluded his address by quoting Exodus 14:13 and saying, “Bye bye Mr. President, it is finished.” In response to a question about retracting his comment on former President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address, Mr. Buah defended his statement, acknowledging that while his words may have been perceived as harsh, they reflected the situation at the time. He emphasized that his intention was not to offend, and he would have chosen better words if given another chance.

Mr. Buah was vetted alongside Mr. Tia Ibrahim, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and Mr. Akamugri Atanga Donatus, all of whom were unanimously approved. The Committee’s report highlighted their competence, vision, and commitment to national development, noting their focus on addressing sector-specific challenges and fostering inclusive leadership.