Barring any changes, Parliament’s Appointments Committee, will vet three more of President John Dramani Mahama’s ministerial nominees today, as part deliberate plan to swiftly ensure state machinery operates efficiently without any disruptions.
The nominees, include Haruna Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale South, who has been nominated as Minister for Education; Eric Opoku, the MP for Asunafo South, nominated as Minister for Food and Agriculture; and Obed Governs Kwame Agbodza, the MP for Adaklu, nominated as Minister for Roads and Highways.
The Herald, understands that the vetting of sector ministers, unlike that of regional ministers, is being expedited to ensure the smooth running of government operations.
There are concerns that, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, is currently overwhelmed, as all ministries, departments, and agencies rely on him for critical authorizations in the absence of sector ministers.
Parliament, therefore, aims to speed up the approval process to avoid further delays in state operations, including payments to companies with outstanding contracts under the Akufo-Addo administration.
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The absence of sector ministers, has also sparked fears of potential corruption and uncertainty among civil servants in many MDAs.
The Appointments Committee, chaired by First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, with Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin as Ranking Member, is, therefore, committed to ensuring the nominees are vetted and approved promptly.
So far, Dr Ato Forson, Dr Dominic Ayine, and John Abdulai Jinapor, have been vetted for the Ministries of Finance, Justice and Attorney General, and Energy, respectively. However, none of the 16 regional ministers, has been vetted yet.
Haruna Iddrisu is a seasoned politician and lawyer. He has held several leadership roles, including Minister for Communications and Minister for Labour and Employment. The former Minority Leader brings extensive experience to the Ministry of Education.
Eric Opoku, who has been nominated for the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, has a strong background in agriculture, law, and leadership, with over 12 years of parliamentary experience. He is currently the Ranking Member on the Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs Committee.
Obed Governs Kwame Agbodza, who is heading to the Ministry of Roads and Highways, is an accomplished architect and the Majority Chief Whip in Parliament. He has managed key projects in healthcare, education, and housing both locally and internationally.
Nine additional ministerial nominees are awaiting vetting to strengthen the government’s focus on governance, infrastructure, youth development, and economic transformation.
These, include Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, nominee for the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. A development expert and legislator with over two decades of experience in governance, education, and women’s rights.
Abla Dzifa Gomashie, who is heading to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. A creative arts advocate and two-term MP for Ketu South, she has a rich background in promoting Ghanaian culture and tourism.
Emelia Arthur, the nominee for the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture. A development specialist with expertise in local governance and natural resource management.
George Opare-Addo, has been nominated for the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment. A lawyer and experienced party organizer, he has served as Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North and National Youth Organizer of the NDC.
Ahmed Ibrahim, has been nominated for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. He has been a legislator since 2009, he has a background in finance and public administration.
Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, is heading to the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry. A lawyer and former Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, she has vast experience in legal practice and international relations.
