Ephson warns Mahama over Flagstaff House “turf wars”

General News of Thursday, 5 February 2015

Source: Starrfmonline.com

Ben Ephson Dispatch Editor

There are ongoing “turf wars” at the Flagstaff House, Managing Editor of the Daily Dispatch Newspaper Ben Ephson has told Kafui Dey on Morning Starr Thursday January 5, 2015 and urged the President to take that into consideration when effecting any changes in his Office.

His caution follows the exit of the President’s Communication Adviser Ben Dotse Malor and Executive Secretary Dr Raymond Atuguba, from the presidency.

A statement from the presidency, which confirmed their exit also said more changes were expected to be effected by the President at the Flagstaff House.

Ephson, however, says President Mahama must have those turf wars on his mind when he effects further changes.

Malor, who also doubled as the spokesperson of President John Dramani Mahama, assumed office in January 2014.

“Having completed the term of the contract, Mr. Malor is returning to the United Nations, from where he had taken a one-year leave of absence,” a statement signed by chief of staff Prosper Bani said on Wednesday.

The statement said until further notice, the Minister for Communications will now serve as Spokesperson for the President. The Flagstaff House Communications Bureau will be responsible for all other communications operations and functions of the Presidency.

Additionally, Cabinet Secretary Mr. Roger Angsomwine has been asked to act as Secretary to the President. He replaces Dr. Raymond Atuguba, who returns to the University of Ghana at the end of a two-year sabbatical leave.

“These changes,” the statement added, “are part of changes which will be taking place at the Flagstaff House over the next few days.”