President John Dramani Mahama has downplayed growing public pressure for the immediate appointment of substantive Ministers for Defence and Environment, Science and Technology, stating that both vacancies will be filled early next year.
Speaking during a meeting with Muslim leaders at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, November 25, the President urged Ghanaians to avoid speculation surrounding the appointments, which became necessary following the tragic deaths of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Murtala Muhammed.
“They say Allah gives and Allah takes. He took two of our comrades and we haven’t filled those positions yet,” Mahama said.
He stressed that rumours of imminent ministerial announcements were unfounded.
“I can see people speculating that we are going to appoint a new Defence Minister or a new Environment Minister. We are not in a hurry,” he clarified.
Mahama assured that the government will make the necessary appointments after the festive season.
“We will do those appointments next year. After Christmas and the holidays, we will fill those positions,” he stated.
The President also urged the public to disregard claims that new ministers would be announced soon.
“So those speculating about somebody being appointed tomorrow, take your time. Go and enjoy Christmas, and after Christmas we will fill those positions,” he added.
The late ministers were among eight people who died in a helicopter crash on August 6 while on their way to a national assignment in the Ashanti Region.
