Tensions are mounting in the Ashanti Region as the Asante Youth Association has strongly opposed the reported removal of Dr. Otchere Addai-Mensah as Chief Executive Officer of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), urging President John Dramani Mahama to reverse the decision immediately.
The group fears the change in leadership could derail the high-profile “Heal Komfo Anokye” project—an ambitious hospital renovation initiative championed by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Speaking at a press briefing in Kumasi on Monday, May 5, Vice President of the Association, Nana Oppong Boadi, cautioned against allowing political maneuvering to interfere with the region’s healthcare priorities.
“This is not about politics—it’s about health,” Boadi stated. “Dr. Addai-Mensah has proven himself a capable and professional leader. Removing him now threatens the gains made under his leadership.”
A letter from the presidency, obtained by Citi News, confirmed the appointment of Dr. Paa Kwasi Baidoo, Ashanti Regional Chair of the Ghana Medical Association, as the new CEO. However, the youth group believes the move lacks transparency and may have been influenced by political actors operating behind the scenes.
“There are claims that the President may not even be fully aware of the implications of this change,” Boadi added. “We suspect elements within the government are working to undermine Asante interests, and we won’t allow that.”
The association is also calling on the hospital’s board chair to suspend any plans to inaugurate Dr. Baidoo until the matter is fully addressed. They insist that continuity at KATH is crucial, especially during the ongoing renovations which are vital to improving healthcare delivery in the region.
