Following concerns over the delay in appointing a substantive Defence Minister after the demise of the illustrious Dr Edward Omane Boamah, a former Deputy Defence Minister Honourable Major (Rtd) Derick Oduro has suggested that ensuring regional balance in ministerial appointments could be one of the reasons causing the delay.
“Ensuring that different regions are represented in the cabinet can be a complex and time consuming process,” he said.
The Minority in Parliament has criticized President John Dramani Mahama for the delay in making the appointment.
Speaking in an interview with Nana Anfreh Damanata of Wenchi-based Radio West Africa on Tuesday morning, Major (Rtd) Derick Oduro explained that a key reason for delays is the need to ensure that all regions are represented in government.
“This can be a challenging task, particularly when the number of ministerial positions is limited.
“Government may need to balance regional representation with other factors such as competence and experience which can lead to further delays in making appointments,” he noted.
He further stated that deputy Minister of Defence is responsible for supporting the Minister of Defence in the formulation and implementation of policies related to national defence and security.
The former Member of Parliament for Nkoranza North therefore recommended Deputy Minister of Defence, Mr Ernest Brogya Gyamfi to government to appoint him to occupy the position of a substantive Defence Minister.
“I am only making a recommendation but President may not take it, honestly Brogya Gyamfi is competent enough to take over as Defence Minister,” he said.
Since the August 6 helicopter crash that took the life of Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the Ministry of Defence has been under the temporary leadership of Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who was appointed as acting Defence Minister.
