Alhaji Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak could become Ghana’s youngest Sports Minister after being named by President John Evans Atta Mills for the post.
Mubarak, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase in the Ashanti Region, is among the final 19 Ministerial nominees named for vetting on Tuesday.
The naming of the 37-year-old comes as a major shock for sports analysts in the country as legendary athlete Professor Francis Dodoo was widely tipped for the post.
Others also linked with the post were Kojo Bonsu, Kwabena Yeboah, Abuga Pele, Nii Nortey Duah and Nii Lante Vanderpuye who are all well-known in sporting circles.
But President Mills sprung the major surprise by naming the youngster who is unknown in sporting circles but is said to be a keen sports enthusiast.
Mubarak has been thrown into the deep end of his political career as the sport ministry river is regarded by many as shark infested river.
Some even argue that it is even much scrutinized than the presidency but he will face major clash with King Faisal boss Alhaji Grunsah who openly campaigned against Mubarak during the December’s parliamentary elections.
His major task is to ensure that the Black Stars qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa while the other national football teams also make appearances at their various global tournaments.
While football will enjoy majority of government support, Mubarak must revive other sports in the country like athletics, boxing, hockey, tennis and table tennis.
He must also attempt to introduce alien sports like swimming, rubgy and American football, which are beginning to take hold in the country.