Parliament Approves Kwabena Donkor As Power Minister

Kwabena Donkor 
Parliament has approved Kwabena Donkor as the Minister for the newly created Ministry of Power.

Shortly after the Speaker, Edward Doe Adjaho announced the decision of the House on Thursday, he reminded the nominee that 'so much is expected of you' at the Power Ministry.

The Speaker made the comments in reference to concerns raised by MPs on the floor over the protracted power problems that have crippled key sectors of the economy.

During the debate, the Minister for Justice and Attorney General, clarified the names of the two ministries formed out of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.

Kofi Buah will head the Ministry for Petroleum, whereas Dr. Donkor will lead the Ministry for Power.

A statement signed by the Chairman of the Appointment Committee of Parliament Barton Oduro indicated that 'the Committee is satisfied that nominee [Dr. Kwabena Donkor] is suitable to be appointed as nominated'

With Dr Donkor's nomination having been approved by Parliament, the road is now clear for President Mahama to swear him into office as Minister in line with the provisions of article 78 of the 1992 constitution.

The inconsistent supply of power featured strongly in the debate on the floor of a House that has over the last few weeks been hit by disruptive power problems that have caused suspension of sittings of the House.

President John Dramani Mahama appointed him Minister designate for the newly created Power Ministry after a series of energy crisis which prompted various groups to protest.

According to government, the Ministry of Power was created as part of measures to restructure the power sector to ensure that more stability and security of power.

Some critics including Dr. Wereko Brobby have stated that the creation of the Ministry will not resolve Ghana's energy challenges.

'A more technocratic organisation being supervised by a Minister in a President's office, as a special minister will save us all the cost of creating directors, chief directors which is not what is required to solve the power problem,' the former VRA boss suggested.

Source: Citifmonline.com