Parliament has approved the fourth batch of ministers nominated by President John Mahama, following their vetting by the Appointments Committee.

The approval came after the committee recommended the nominations of Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, MP for Wa; Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, MP for Tamale Central; Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo-Prampram; Kofi Adams, MP for Buem; and Joseph Bukari Nikpe, MP for Saboba.

The House debated the motion for their approval on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, with Second Deputy Speaker Andrew Asiamah Amoako presiding.

The Minority Caucus, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, approved four nominees but opposed Samuel Nartey George’s appointment as Communications Minister-designate.

They cited concerns over his past remarks criticising former President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

However, the Majority Caucus rejected this reasoning and expressed disappointment over the Minority’s opposition.

They argued that the Ningo-Prampram MP’s nomination was justified and that the objections against him were untenable.

Following hours of deliberation, the Minority Caucus acknowledged the competence of the four other nominees but insisted on subjecting Sam George to a secret ballot.

However, they ultimately abstained from voting, leaving his fate to be determined by a majority decision.

The Second Deputy Speaker then confirmed the appointments through a voice vote, with the Minority opting out of the process.

The approved ministers and their respective portfolios are: Dr. Rashid Pelpuo as Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment; Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed as Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Samuel Nartey George as Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations; Kofi Adams as Minister for Sports and Recreation; and Joseph Bukari Nikpe as Minister for Transport.