Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story, he dismissed concerns that the delay in appointing a substantive minister has created a vacuum within the country’s security architecture.

Responding to criticism from sections of the opposition and security analysts, he noted that there is currently no governance gap at the Ministry of Defence.

The government also rejected suggestions that the President is facing difficulty in identifying a successor, insisting that no such indication has been given.

“The President has not indicated any difficulty whatsoever in naming a substantive minister. He believes it ought to be done at the right time and within a given timeframe. When that decision is made, it will be communicated,” he explained.

He added that the acting minister is fully empowered to execute all duties of the office in line with policies approved by Cabinet and led by the President.

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Madam Desoso’s assurance, however, signals her continued loyalty and contribution to the party and national governance.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Before the 2024 election, Nana Yaa Jantuah had expressed her readiness to work with Mr. Mahama if given an appointment.

Additionally, Mrs. Joyce Bawah Mogtari has been appointed as Presidential Adviser and Special Aide to the President, while Stanislav Xoese Dogbe has been named Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations).

Former Finance Minister Seth Emmanuel Terkper has been appointed as Presidential Adviser on the Economy, and gender activist Shamima Muslim has been named Deputy Presidential Spokesperson.

Former National Security Coordinator Larry Gbevlo-Lartey has been appointed Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahelian States, with Professor Francis Dodoo overseeing the National Anti-Corruption Programme.

For the position of Secretary to the Cabinet, President Mahama has appointed Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo.

The appointments were announced in a statement signed by Acting Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

The statement highlighted the appointments as a testament to the President’s commitment to effective leadership and a responsive administration.

President Mahama expressed confidence that the appointees would leverage their expertise and dedication to advance national progress and development.

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The office has described as false, the letter, alleging the former Trade Minister’s appointment as Acting Director for the establishment of the 24-hour Economy.

It added the letter was a malicious fabrication intended to mislead the public.

The clarification was contained in a statement signed by Kwame Owusu Danso, Esq., Special Advisor on Communications to Alan Kyerematen.

“This blatant attempt to create confusion and misinformation will not be tolerated. Please, treat this fake appointment letter with the contempt it deserves,” the statement noted.

The statement further called on citizens to remain vigilant and verify information through credible and official channels to avoid the spread of falsehoods.

Read the alleged letter below:

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Prof. Atsu Aryee, speaking on Joy News’ Upfront, highlighted the delicate interplay of merit and loyalty in public appointments, commending the President for achieving this critical equilibrium.

“I think both are important because, whether we like it or not, you must have the merit, and you must also have the loyalty. That is a fine balance, which we have not always kept in Ghana when appointing people to public office,” Prof. Aryee explained.

“You must strike the right kind of balance between merit and loyalty, and I think the President has done well in this regard.”

He described the President’s choices as reflective of both trust and competence, stressing the humanity of the appointees.

“I always say that, whether you like it or not, we are all human beings. We have our weaknesses. But even though you can have weaknesses, you can actually work around them and make yourself better,” Prof. Aryee added.

“These ministers are human beings. They have their weaknesses, but at the same time, they have the merit and loyalty required to serve.”

Prof. Aryee expressed confidence in the ministers’ ability to meet the expectations placed upon them, noting the high level of public anticipation surrounding the NDC administration.

“Honestly, whether you like it or not, there is euphoria about the NDC coming to power. I don’t think these ministers will want to let that euphoria fade away. A lot is being expected from them.”

He urged the ministers to focus on self-improvement and build on their strengths while addressing their limitations.

“They must work on their weaknesses and then, of course, continue trending where they have done well. When they are able to do this, I’m sure they will succeed in office and not disappoint the President or Ghanaians.”

Prof. Aryee’s remarks underscored the optimism surrounding the NDC’s return to power, as well as the collective expectation for the administration to deliver on its promises.

He expressed confidence that the President’s appointees would rise to the occasion and fulfill the mandate entrusted to them.

“I believe that these appointees will make the President happy. They will make Ghanaians happy with their performance. It’s a lot of responsibility, but I trust that they are up to the task.”

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