Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to announcing ministerial appointments, describing it as a “piecemeal” process.
He made the remarks in Parliament following the announcement of three ministerial nominations by Speaker Alban Bagbin.
The nominees, as announced, include; Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson – Minister for Finance (Designate)John Abdulai Jinapor – Minister for Energy (Designate) and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine – Attorney-General and Minister for Justice (Designate).
In his critique, Afenyo-Markin argued that the government’s staggered approach to appointments demonstrates a lack of preparedness and undermines public confidence.
“This ‘tot-tot’ appointment of ministers is unacceptable. A government should be ready from day one, but what we are seeing are just three key positions—Finance, Energy, and Attorney-General. What about Agriculture, Trade, and Industry? These are critical sectors, and we expect them to be addressed immediately,” he said.
The Deputy Majority Leader further accused the government of failing to prioritize economic recovery and sectoral leadership at a time when decisive action is needed. He emphasized that the delay in announcing a full slate of ministers contradicts the government’s promises of efficiency and readiness to govern.
“This government promised to hit the ground running in 2024, but this piecemeal approach signals otherwise. A serious government must show that it is prepared to tackle the economy and other pressing issues holistically,” Afenyo-Markin added.
In response, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, who is also the Minister for Finance designate, called for calm and assured the house that the government would soon announce additional nominations to complete its ministerial team. He urged MPs to exercise patience as the vetting process begins for the initial nominees.
The exchange highlighted the growing tension in Parliament as stakeholders await the full composition of President Mahama’s ministerial team. Observers expect the government to announce further appointments in the coming days.
Stakeholders and political analysts have also weighed in, urging the government to expedite the process of filling critical positions. Many argue that delays in appointing ministers for key sectors such as Agriculture, Trade, and Industry could hinder the government’s ability to implement its policy agenda effectively.
The nation awaits further announcements as the vetting process for the three nominees gets underway.
