The Appointments Committee of Parliament in Ghana was embroiled in a tense and chaotic exchange on Thursday evening as members clashed over the timing of the vetting for two prominent ministerial nominees.
Minority MPs proposed delaying the vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Health Minister-designate, and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, to Friday, January 31, 2025, citing the lateness of the hour. However, the motion was quickly met with resistance from the Majority MPs, who insisted that the vetting proceed without delay.
The situation swiftly escalated, with both sides engaging in a heated verbal exchange, and the committee room becoming charged with tension. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin argued that the late hour—after 10 p.m.—made it impractical to continue the vetting process, suggesting it be postponed to the following day for a more thorough review of the nominees.
Despite his appeal, the Majority firmly rejected the proposal, insisting that the vetting process should continue as scheduled. The standoff between the two factions saw tempers flare, with voices raised and accusations exchanged, leading to a complete deadlock.
“The microphones have been destroyed, and even if we want to proceed with the hearing, the media cannot pick the feed. It is unfortunate this has happened,” Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga told colleagues, noting the disruption caused by the escalating disagreement.
With no resolution in sight, the committee decided to adjourn and reschedule the vetting to Friday, January 31, 2025. The delay has raised concerns about the timely formation of President John Dramani Mahama’s cabinet, as the vetting of key nominees remains unresolved.
The President has nominated a total of 42 ministers, including seven women and 24 members of Parliament. Earlier this week, Mahama swore in six of his ministerial nominees following their parliamentary approval.
As the country awaits a final decision on the vetting, all eyes are on Ghana’s Parliament to see whether a compromise can be reached, allowing the process to move forward without further delays.