The Deputy Minister Designate for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has admitted that he was too excessive in criticising the Akufo-Addo government’s handling of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
During his appearance before the Appointment Committee of Parliament for vetting, Dr. Apaak said the language in his past comments against the government was “harsh”.
In social media posts before the December 7 election, Dr. Apaak accused the previous government of enabling illegal mining and benefiting from the menace.
The Deputy Education Minister nominee also admitted that he judged the government based on the actions of a few people.
This, he said, was due to a report that was published by Professor Frimpong-Boateng, which accused some elements in the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration of being involved in galamsey.
“The language was rather harsh. Given the context provided, it is only fair and appropriate that I concede that I was rather too excessive in blaming an entire government for the infractions of a few.
“Given my responses so far, I would admit so,” he stated.
He further urged parents to take full advantage of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, emphasizing its long-term benefits for the nation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the policy, and assuring that it has come to stay.
He encouraged parents and guardians to enrol their children, stressing that quality education remains a priority.