Parliament has approved the fourth batch of ministers nominated by President John Mahama following their vetting by the Appointments Committee despite attempts to hack off nominees for Foreign Affairs and Communication and Digitalization, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Samuel Nartey George respectively off the list.
The committee had recommended the nominations of Dr. Rashid Pelpuo (MP for Wa), Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed (MP for Nanton), Samuel Nartey George (MP for Ningo-Prampram), Kofi Adams (MP for Buem), and Joseph Bukari Nikpe (MP for Saboba)
The House debated the motion for the nominees’ approval on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, with Second Deputy Speaker Andrew Asiamah Amoako presiding.
While the Minority Caucus, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, endorsed four nominees, they opposed Samuel Nartey George’s appointment as Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations. Their objections were based on his past remarks criticizing former President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
The Majority Caucus dismissed these concerns, expressing disappointment over the Minority’s stance. They defended George’s nomination, arguing that the objections raised were unfounded.
After prolonged deliberations, the Minority acknowledged the competence of the four other nominees but insisted on subjecting Sam George’s appointment to a secret ballot. However, they ultimately abstained from voting, allowing the Majority to decide the outcome on the faith of the fourth batch of nominees.
With the Minority opting out, the Second Deputy Speaker confirmed all appointments through a voice vote.
Parliament also approved Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, as Minister for Foreign Affairs after the Minority Caucus of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) abstained from the approval process.
Their decision was based on concerns regarding the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative and the nominee’s alleged failure to submit certain documents requested by the caucus. Ablakwa’s approval was ultimately secured through a voice vote, with the Minority opting out.
Approved Ministers and Their Portfolios:
- Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Minister for Foreign Affairs
- Dr. Rashid Pelpuo – Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment
- Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology
- Samuel Nartey George – Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations
- Kofi Adams – Minister for Sports and Recreation
- Joseph Bukari Nikpe – Minister for Transport
By Osumau Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com
