The Minority in Parliament has opted to boycott the vetting process for Herbert Krapah, who President Akufo Addo nominated as Minister of State at the Energy Ministry.
President Akufo Addo justified the nomination, citing the increased workload at the Energy Ministry, where Krapah currently serves as a deputy minister.
However, during the Appointments Committee session convened to consider Krapah’s nomination, Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah outlined reasons for the caucus’ decision to boycott.
Buah criticized the nomination process, noting that it did not adhere to parliamentary norms requiring public notification in a national newspaper. According to Buah, this oversight denied the public the opportunity to submit memoranda or representations to the committee.
The Minority questioned the necessity of appointing a Minister of State at the Energy Ministry alongside an existing substantive Minister. They accused the majority of attempting to expedite the process without adequate public participation, thereby perpetuating what they perceive as a bloated government.
“The Minority Council has observed attempts by the majority to circumvent due process in appointing the President’s nominee,” Buah stated. “Parliamentary tradition mandates that nominees be publicized for public input, which has not been adhered to in this instance.”
Buah affirmed the Minority’s stance against participating in a rushed process that, in their view, undermines Ghana’s democratic principles and excludes public engagement.
“The caucus stands firm in its decision not to partake in vetting any ministerial nominee that contributes to the perceived expansion of the current administration,” Buah emphasized.
The boycott underscores ongoing tensions in Ghana’s political landscape regarding governance practices and the accountability of ministerial appointments.
Source:newsghana.com.gh