News:
February 5, 2025
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Samuel Nartey George, Ministers -designate for Foreign Affairs and Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation respectively have received parliamentary approval by majority decision with the loudest ‘Aye’.
The Minority side of the House, though present and fully participated in the processes leading to the question being posed by the Speaker, however abstained from voting on their approval.
The Minority Leader after the debate on the nominees make clear that they were unable to give their blessings for the two and indicated that they will abstain from the voice vote.
In the specific case of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said, ” bring me water, I need proper water! We wash our hands off Okudzeto Ablakwa. May all his sins be upon you”, he told the House referring to the Majority.
The situation was no different in the case of Samuel George as the Minority opposed his appointment as the Minister -designate for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations citing some concerns over his past remarks that criticized former President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
These two nominees have drawn the most attention from the general public since their names were announced and the enthusiasm about their names was affirmed during their vetting.
It was therefore not surprising that their approval would have to be subjected to a vote.
Meanwhile, the following nominees were approved by consus.
*Dr Rashid Pelpuo as Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment
*Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed as Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology
*Kofi Adams as Minister for Sports and Recreation and
*Joseph Bukari Nikpe as Minister for Transport.
Dominic Shirimori/Ghana.com