Nana Akomea, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s batch-by-batch approach to ministerial appointments, describing it as a reasonable move given the circumstances.
Speaking on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show, Akomea acknowledged the criticism from sections of the public and political opponents over the style of the President.
However, he noted that this practice is not new as it has been used by previous governments.
“Regarding the ‘tot tot’ appointments people are talking about, President Mahama said his full list would be ready in two weeks. If he had been able to release the entire list, it would have been good, but there may be a reason for the delay,” he remarked.
Akomea particularly commended the president for prioritizing critical sectors, including finance and energy, amidst Ghana’s economic challenges.
“Of course, someone must be appointed immediately for the finance ministry. And then, especially the energy ministry—there are issues with the sector because we owe the Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
“It’s not stable, so the energy minister is equally important, just as the finance minister,” he explained.
While noting that no government has been able to release its full list of ministers immediately after taking office, Akomea concluded that the staggered appointments are “in the right direction” and likely serve a practical purpose.
"I do not remember any government that released all its ministers and ministries as soon as possible, so I think it's in the right direction, although I do not know why they do that,” he expressed.