Parliament has confirmed the nomination of Sam Nartey George as Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, despite a boycott from the Minority Caucus. His approval was secured by a majority decision, as the Minority members abstained from the vote.
Explaining the decision to withhold their support, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin cited Sam George’s public criticisms of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the Chief Justice.
He also raised concerns about the nominee’s failure to provide certain documents regarding his spouse’s business and secondary income during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
“We are leaving this matter in the hands and on the heads of the Majority in this House. It is their cross to carry, as we, the NPP Minority Caucus of 88, are abstaining,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated.
He further clarified that while the Minority acknowledged Mr. George’s eligibility to serve as a minister, his public remarks, particularly regarding illegal mining and his refusal to retract statements against the Chief Justice, influenced their decision.
Following the approval, Mr. George took to social media to refute claims that he failed to provide the necessary documents.
“For the avoidance of any doubt and to settle any controversy, yesterday, I submitted to the Appointments Committee all the documents required of me, and more,” he posted.
He detailed that his submissions included certified copies of his academic certificates from the London School of Economics (LSE) and the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), proof of travel, accommodation receipts, and payment evidence for his studies.
Reaffirming his commitment to public service, Mr. George stated, “Facts are sacred, and I remain resolute in my quest to serve my nation to the best of my abilities. So help me God.”
While the Minority opposed Sam George’s nomination, four other ministerial nominees received unanimous approval. They include:
Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Kofi Iddie Adams – Minister for Sports and Recreation and Joseph Bukari Nikpe Minister for Transport.
Their approval followed a motion by Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, who urged the House to adopt the committee’s report on the President’s nominees.
“The committee, after thorough deliberation, found the nominees competent, knowledgeable, and well-suited for their respective ministerial roles,” Mr. Ahiafor stated.
While seconding the motion, Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the Minority had no objections to the other four nominees, endorsing them as qualified under Article 78 (1) of the 1992 Constitution and Standing Order 217 of Parliament.
However, regarding Mr. George, he reiterated the Minority’s decision to leave the approval process to the Majority.
“In other words, we washed our hands of his nomination and asked the Majority to carry their burden on their own shoulders,” he remarked.
Despite the controversy, the approval of all five nominees marks a significant step in the government’s ministerial reshuffle.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
