Mahama will appoint new Defence Minister soon – Kwakye Ofosu

The Minister in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has assured Ghanaians that President John Dramani Mahama will soon appoint a substantive Minister for Defence to fill the vacancy created by the tragic death of Dr Edward Omane Boamah.

Following the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed Dr Omane Boamah’s life, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has been serving as Acting Minister for Defence. The prolonged vacancy has, however, sparked growing public concern, with some political figures urging the President to expedite the appointment process.

Former Defence Minister and Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, recently called for urgent action, warning that emerging security challenges across West Africa require strong and decisive leadership at Ghana’s Defence Ministry.

He urged President Mahama to either promote the current deputy minister or nominate a qualified replacement to ensure operational stability and continuity.

But addressing the issue on Newsfeed on Channel One TV on Monday, October 27, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu dismissed suggestions of hesitation on the part of the President, assuring that the appointment process is well underway and will be completed “in due course.”

“President Mahama fully understands his responsibilities, and whereas he had a close relationship with the late Minister Omane Boamah, the President is pragmatic and professional enough to understand that life has gone on,” he said.

He added that the government remains focused on ensuring that the Defence Ministry continues to function effectively despite the loss of its substantive minister.

“Whatever needs to be done will be done to ensure that the Defence Ministry has the best of leadership and that the policies they implement contribute to the overall development of our country and ensure our safety and security. In due course, that announcement will be made,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu stated.

He reaffirmed that President Mahama’s administration is committed to maintaining national security and ensuring the ministry’s smooth operations as the nation mourns one of its key ministers.