Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has referred four deputy ministerial nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting, marking what the government says is the final set of deputy ministerial appointments by President John Mahama.

The nominees are Dorcas Affo-Toffey as Deputy Minister for Transport; James Gyakye Quayson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mohammed Adam Sukparu for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation; and Grace Ayensu-Danquah as Deputy Minister of Health.

While announcing the referral on the floor of Parliament, Speaker Bagbin made it clear that the committee was not under pressure to fast-track the process. “The Committee is not compelled to consider them expeditiously,” he stated.

Bagbin noted that the President had completed his deputy ministerial appointments with these nominations.

“The nominees have distinguished themselves in public service and possess the requisite publications, experience, and integrity to support the respective sector ministers in effectively discharging their duties,” he said.

“Their curriculum vitae and supporting documents are attached to facilitate the vetting process. I trust that Parliament will consider and approve the nominations expeditiously,” the Speaker added.

President Mahama announced the nominations on July 9. In a statement on the same day, Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed this was the final round of deputy ministerial appointments.

Kwakye Ofosu explained in a statement dated July 9 that the nominations were made under the authority of Articles 78(1) and 79(1) of the Constitution, and the names had been formally submitted to Parliament through the Speaker for prior approval.