Parliament has approved the nominations of Mahama Ayariga and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman‑Rawlings as Ministers for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and Environment, Science and Technology, respectively. Their appointments followed vetting by the Appointments Committee, in line with constitutional requirements for scrutinising presidential nominees.
Mr. Ayariga, a former Majority Leader and Chairman of Parliament’s Business Committee, was nominated by President John Dramani Mahama to head the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Dr. Agyeman‑Rawlings was nominated to lead the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, with responsibility for environmental protection, scientific research, technological advancement, and policies addressing ecological challenges.
Both nominees appeared before the Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, where they were assessed on competence, experience, and suitability. The Committee subsequently recommended their approval, paving the way for Parliament’s endorsement.
The approvals are part of President Mahama’s ongoing changes to his ministerial team, as his administration aims to advance its policy agenda in local governance, environmental protection, science, and technology. Mr. Ayariga is anticipated to leverage his parliamentary and political experience in the Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs portfolio. Meanwhile, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings will oversee the government’s initiatives in environmental sustainability, as well as science and technological development.
