President John Mahama has charged Parliament to expedite the vetting process for newly nominated deputy ministers, emphasizing the need for them to support their respective sector ministers in executing government policies.
Speaking on February 7 at the Jubilee House in Accra, Mahama disclosed plans to nominate four additional deputy ministers in the coming days, completing his government’s full slate of 60 ministers.
“So far, 42 ministers have been sworn in, and 13 more are awaiting vetting. I urge Parliament to fast-track their approval so they can immediately begin work. In the coming days, I will nominate four more to complete the team,” he stated.
Among the deputy minister nominees are Samson Ahi for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry; Clement Abas Apaak for Education; and Gizella Tettey-Agbotui for Works, Housing, and Water Resources. Other appointees include Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini for Roads and Highways, Justice Srem-Sai for the Justice Ministry, and Rita Naa Odoley Sowah for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. Additionally, actor-turned-politician John Kofi Setor Dumelo has been tapped as Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture.
Earlier that day, Mahama swore in 17 ministers, including sector ministers, ministers of state, and regional ministers.
The newly sworn-in sector ministers include:
- Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh – Health Minister
- Sam George – Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation
- Kofi Adams – Sports Minister
- Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment and Science
- Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Foreign Affairs Minister
- Joseph Bukari Nikpe – Transport Minister
- Felix Kwakye Ofosu – Minister of State in charge of Government Communications
- Rashid Pelpuo – Labour Minister
- Issifu Seidu – Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability
The newly sworn-in regional ministers are:
- Charity Gardiner – Ahafo Region
- Salifu Bi-Awuribe – Savannah Region
- Joseph Nelson – Western Region
- Wilbert Petty Brentum – Western North Region
- Joseph Addae Akwaboa – Bono Region
- Charles Lwanga Puozuing – Upper West Region
Mahama urged the ministers to exercise financial prudence and remain committed to serving Ghanaians with modesty.
“This government will be defined by its modesty. I expect all of you to be responsible and efficient in your spending,” he stressed.
The president also announced restrictions on non-essential travel for government officials.
“I have directed the Chief of Staff to ban all unnecessary trips. Any travel must receive approval and, if granted, must be conducted cost-effectively—no first-class flights,” he declared.