The Appointments Committee of Parliament will hold public hearings starting today to vet President John Mahama’s nominees for various ministerial positions. The hearings are scheduled from Monday, February 24, to Thursday, February 27, 2025, beginning at 9:30 a.m. daily at Committee Rooms 1 and 2 of the Administration Block. The President has nominated 13 deputy ministers to assist their respective sectors in promoting national development, fulfilling government promises, and advancing Ghana’s socio-economic agenda.
In addition, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba has been nominated as Minister of State in charge of Public Sector Reforms. Presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who announced the nominees on February 5, stated that they were carefully selected based on their expertise, dedication, and alignment with the government’s vision. “President Mahama is confident that these individuals will bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to their respective ministries,” he said.
Full List of Nominees:
1. Ministry of Finance: Thomas Nyarko Ampem – Tasked with supporting Ghana’s fiscal strategies amidst global economic uncertainties.
2. Ministry of the Interior: Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi – Expected to tackle national security challenges and internal peace initiatives.
3. Ministry of Defence: Ernest Brogya Gyenfi – Set to assist in enhancing Ghana’s defense capabilities.
4. Ministry of Education: Clement Abas Apaak – Poised to champion educational reforms and improved access to quality education.
5. Ministry of Energy & Green Transition: Richard Gyan-Mensah – Will play a key role in promoting clean energy solutions.
6. Ministry of Roads & Highways: Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini – Expected to support critical infrastructure development.
7. Ministry of Justice & Attorney General: Justice Srem-Sai – Will aid in upholding the rule of law and legal reforms.
8. Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources: Yusif Sulemana – Focused on sustainable land use and resource management.
9. Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs: Rita Naa Odoley Sowah – Tasked with strengthening local governance.
10. Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources: Gizella Tettey-Agbotui – Set to address housing challenges and water access.
11. Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts: Yussif Issaka Jajah – Aims to boost tourism and cultural preservation.
12. Ministry of Food and Agriculture: John Kofi Setor Dumelo – Will spearhead agricultural productivity and food security.
13. Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry: Samson Ahi – Expected to drive trade expansion and industrial growth.
Additionally, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba has been nominated as Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms. Her mandate includes streamlining government operations and enhancing service delivery. The public hearings are expected to draw significant attention, with many Ghanaians eager to assess the nominees’ vision for their respective portfolios.
Civil society organisations and political analysts have urged the committee to ensure thorough scrutiny, focusing on integrity, competence, and commitment to national development. Chairperson of the Appointments Committee, First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor has assured the public that the vetting process will be transparent and fair.
By: Abubakar Ibrahim
