Mahama Will Appoint Substantive Defence Minister in Due Course – Kwakye Ofosu

The Minister in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has assured that President John Dramani Mahama will soon appoint a substantive Minister for Defence, following concerns about the prolonged vacancy at the Ministry.

The position has remained without a permanent officeholder since the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, that claimed the life of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah. Until a new appointment is made, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has been serving in an acting capacity.

Calls for a new substantive minister intensified last week when former Defence Minister and MP for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, urged the President to expedite the appointment, citing rising security concerns within the West African sub-region.

Speaking on Newsfeed on Channel One TV on Monday, October 27, Kwakye Ofosu dismissed suggestions that the government was struggling to find a suitable replacement. He emphasised that the President remains fully committed to ensuring strong leadership at the Defence Ministry.

“President Mahama fully understands his responsibilities, and whereas he had a close relationship with the late Minister Omane Boamah, the President is pragmatic and professional enough to understand that life has gone on,” he said.

He added that the government is ensuring due diligence and a careful process to support national security priorities.

“Whatever needs to be done will be done to ensure that the Defence Ministry has the best of leadership and the policies they implement contribute to the overall development of our country and ensure our safety and security. In due course, that announcement will be made,” he assured.

The defence portfolio remains one of the most critical as Ghana continues to navigate heightened regional security threats, including cross-border terrorism.