Two ministers appointed by President John Dramani Mahama are likely to face approval through secret balloting following contentious developments during their vetting process.
The two ministers in question are Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, nominated as Foreign Minister, and Sam Nartey George, nominated as Communications Minister. Their confirmation in Parliament has been called into question due to controversies surrounding their past comments and actions.
While the Minority initially hinted that three ministers would undergo secret voting, the situation shifted after Emmanuel Kofi Armah-Bauh, the nominee for Land Minister, issued an apology for his comments about former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s final State of the Nation Address. This has left the Minority with two key ministerial candidates who may face significant hurdles in their approval process.
Sam George Under Fire Over Comments and Social Media Posts
Sam George’s vetting has attracted widespread attention, particularly due to his outspoken comments during TV interviews and on social media. His remarks about former President Akufo-Addo, the Chief Justice, and the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill have raised eyebrows. Despite being pressed during his vetting, George stood firm on his views, refusing to apologize, arguing that his comments were made in context and were not intended to disrespect the individuals involved.
Additionally, George was questioned about his personal finances and lifestyle, specifically regarding how he funds his lavish living. In response, George revealed that his wife takes care of his financial needs, but his answers did little to quell suspicions about his wealth.
While a recent poll by Global InfoAnalytics suggested that the Minority Leader’s questions may have been personal in nature, the Minority remains adamant that the ministers must be held accountable for their actions. Deputy Majority Leader Afenyo-Markin even criticized George’s responses, describing them as “aggressive and brash.”
Ablakwa Accused of Concealing Wealth and Property Ownership
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Minister designate, has also faced intense scrutiny. Afenyo-Markin raised questions about Ablakwa’s financial transparency, accusing him of concealing the sources of his wealth and his property ownership. Specifically, he pointed to a property in the prestigious Airport Hills area, suggesting that Ablakwa’s claim of renting was disingenuous, as “no one rents in Airport Hills — that place is built to own.”
Ablakwa, who has positioned himself as a figure of righteousness, has come under fire for what the Minority views as an attempt to create a false image of humility. Afenyo-Markin’s remarks echo growing concerns that some public figures are attempting to shield their wealth and evade scrutiny.
Minority Plans to Delay Approval
Given the contentious vetting of both Sam George and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minority in Parliament is unlikely to approve their nominations easily. Although the Majority has the numbers, the Minority is determined to challenge the confirmation of these two ministers, which could lead to further delays in the approval process.
This strategic move by the Minority underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in government, even as it seeks to put pressure on the executive to address the concerns raised during the vetting.
WRITER: NAYA
