New sports minister named

CAN HE SUCCEED? Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak's faint hopes of holding onto power seem to have gone up in smoke after a replacement for him was named at the Sports Minister.

President John Evans Atta Mills has appointed Wa Central MP, Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, as care-taker minister for the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

 
This directive looks to have sealed the doom of Mubarak as sources say he could even be prosecuted if he is found guilty of malfeasance.

 
Analysts say the appointment of Pelpuo is a diplomatic way of sacking the minister, who is accused of sending his girlfriend on a duty trip at the state's expense.

The appointment of Hon Rashid Pelpuo, also a Minister of State, follows the president's directive to Mubarak to step aside as investigations into allegations of financial malfeasance at the ministry.

Hon Rashid Pelpuo has been duly served a letter, signed by the president's secretary Mr Berbako Mensah, confirming his appointment.

The 46-year-old care-taker minister and foreign relations expert assumes full responsibility until a substantive minister is appointed.

Speaking to Joy News' Sammy Darko Mr Pelpuo said he is ready to take up the challenge.

Asked what his plan of action for the ministry was, Mr Pelpuo said any comments to that effect would be premature.

The avowed youth advocate has, over the years, served in various positions including the head of the National Youth Council.