In a significant development within Ghana’s political landscape, Parliament has approved 12 additional ministers-designate nominated by President John Dramani Mahama. This approval comes amidst notable dissent from the Minority, particularly concerning the nomination of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for the position of Foreign Affairs Minister.
Background of the Nominations
President Mahama has been actively assembling his ministerial team to steer various sectors of the nation’s governance. The recent batch of 12 nominees was subjected to a vetting process by Parliament’s Appointments Committee. Following this scrutiny, the committee recommended their approval, leading to a parliamentary vote.
The Approved Nominees
The 12 ministers-designate who received parliamentary approval include:
1. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Foreign Affairs Minister-designate
2. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh – Health Minister-designate
3. Felix Kwakye Ofosu – Minister of State in charge of Government Communications
4. Salisu Be-Awuribe Issifu – Savannah Region Minister-designate
5. Wilbert Petty Brentum – Western North Region Minister-designate
6. Joseph Nelson – Western Region Minister-designate
7. Joseph Addae Akwaboa – Bono Region Minister-designate
8. Francis Owusu Antwi – Bono East Region Minister-designate
9. Puozuing Charles Lwanga – Upper West Region Minister-designate
10. Ali Adolf John – Northern Region Minister-designate
11. John Kwadwo Gyapong – Oti Region Minister-designate
12. James Gunu – Volta Region Minister-designate
These individuals are expected to assume their respective roles upon swearing-in, contributing to the administration’s agenda across various sectors and regions.
Minority’s Rejection of Ablakwa’s Approval
Despite the overall approval, the Minority in Parliament expressed strong reservations regarding Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s nomination as Foreign Affairs Minister. Their dissent was evident during the vetting process and subsequent discussions. Specific reasons for the Minority’s rejection have not been detailed in the available sources.
Implications of the Approval
The endorsement of these ministers-designate signifies a step forward in President Mahama’s efforts to establish a functional and comprehensive government. The approved ministers are anticipated to bring their expertise to bear in their respective domains, addressing both national and regional challenges.
However, the Minority’s opposition to Ablakwa’s appointment highlights ongoing political tensions and differing perspectives within Parliament. Such dissent underscores the challenges inherent in achieving consensus in a diverse political environment.
The parliamentary approval of 12 ministers-designate marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s governance, reflecting both progress and the complexities of political dynamics. As these ministers prepare to assume office, their performance will be closely monitored by both Parliament and the citizenry, ensuring accountability and effective service delivery.
Source: Ghanaweb