Appoint Substantive Defence Minister Now – Dominic Nitiwul Urges Mahama

Former Minister for Defence and Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to urgently appoint a substantive Minister for Defence to ensure strong leadership amid emerging security concerns across the country.

Following the tragic death of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, the Defence Ministry has been left without a substantive minister. In the interim, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has been directed by the President to oversee the ministry’s operations.

Speaking to journalists in Parliament on Friday, October 24, Nitiwul expressed worry over the prolonged delay, cautioning that it could impede the effective functioning of the security sector.

“The deputy cannot act as the defence minister. It is the reason the president asked the finance minister to act as the interim defence minister. We all know that the finance minister doesn’t have time. I think that it is time for the president to look for and nominate somebody to take over,” he said.

The former Defence Minister highlighted that growing instability within the West African sub-region requires strong, focused, and dedicated leadership at Ghana’s Defence Ministry.

“In the West Africa region, terrorism is becoming endemic. We are enjoying peace, but we are always threatened by insecurities around us, and I think we need somebody who will offer leadership,” he added.

Nitiwul urged President Mahama to act swiftly — whether by promoting the current deputy minister or appointing a new candidate — to ensure continuity and stability in the country’s defence administration.

“That long delay is not helpful,” he cautioned.