Parliament confirms Sam George, four others as Ministers

Parliament on Tuesday confirmed the nominations of Mr Sam Nartey George as Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, and four other ministerial appointees.

   
Mr George’s confirmation was secured through a majority decision, as the Minority caucus abstained from endorsing him.

  
The Minority Leader, Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin, explained that the Minority rejected George’s nomination due to his accusations against former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his criticism of the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkonoo.

   
Mr Afenyo-Markin stated, “We are leaving this matter in the hands and on the heads of the Majority in this House.

It is their cross to carry as we the NPP Minority Caucus of 88 are abstaining.” 

 
In addition to Mr Sam George, the following ministerial appointees were confirmed:  
Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment; Mr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Mr Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation and Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister for Transport.

  
The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Mr Bernard Ahiafor, recommended the approval of the four nominees by consensus, stating that they were found to be competent, knowledgeable, and well-suited for their respective roles.

  
Mr Afenyo-Markin seconded the motion, noting that the Minority had no objections to the four nominees, believing they qualified under Article 78 (1) of the 1992 Constitution. 

  
However, he reiterated the Minority’s concerns regarding Mr George’s nomination, citing his inability to address certain issues during the vetting process.