Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is charging new Ashanti Regional Minister, Eric Opoku to work towards achieving government’s aspirations for Ghanaians for improved quality of life. The Otumfuo asked him to collaborate with all interest groups and individuals to bring progress to the region. He made the statement when Mr. Opoku paid a visit to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Tuesday. Mr. Opoku, a native of Bekwai Kokofu in the Ashanti Region, was re-assigned from the Bono Ahafo Region to Ashanti by President John Mahama, in his recent shuffling of Regional Ministers. He assumes duty at a time when residents face serious security concerns especially armed robbery and the involvement of Chinese nationals in illegal mining known locally as ‘galamsey’. Mr. Opoku pledged to team-up with all stakeholders to continue the work initiated by his predecessors in the region, to curb such menace. He called on agitated NDC supporters, in particular, to exercise restraints as President Mahama addresses the socio-economic challenges of the country. Mr. Opoku said immediate familiarization with chiefs, party executives and other stakeholders in the region, would be a key factor for smooth administration. Meanwhile, his out-going colleague, Samuel Sarpong, who heads for the Central Region, has handed over.