The Member of Parliament (MP) for Bole/Bamboi, Yusif Sulemana, has dismissed claims that he has been sidelined following the announcement of President John Dramani Mahama's ministerial list, which did not feature his name.

The MP assured his constituents that he remains in close communication with the President and is focused on serving their interests.

Speaking in an interview with JoyNews on Wednesday, January 22, Mr Sulemana addressed concerns that emerged after some disturbances broke out in his constituency.

These were reportedly linked to dissatisfaction over his absence from the President's ministerial appointments. He emphasised that his relationship with President Mahama remains strong.

“I’ve not been sidelined, and I am closely in touch with President Mahama,” he stated. Mr Sulemana explained that the President's decision to limit his cabinet to 60 ministers was a reflection of his commitment to a lean and efficient government.

He further highlighted that President Mahama’s roots in Bole provide a unique advantage for the constituency.

“The President promised to appoint 60 ministers, and he is a man coming from Bole. What do we need a minister for? We are looking for a minister or an appointment to bring development to our people. So if we have the President himself coming from the constituency, what will be a minister’s duty in this equation?” Mr Sulemana asked.

The MP called for calm among his constituents and urged them to rally behind President Mahama's leadership.

He reiterated that the President's presence and influence would ensure development for Bole/Bamboi, even without a ministerial appointment from the area.