Parliament approves Appointments C’ttee to vet key nominees

Parliament has formally approved the establishment of its Appointments Committee, an essential body responsible for reviewing and recommending nominees for key government positions, including ministers.

The committee will be chaired by First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, with Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as the Vice Chairperson. Notable members include Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, who will serve as the Ranking Member, and Patricia Appiagyei as the Deputy Ranking Member.

The full list of committee members is as follows:

1. Hon. Bernard Ahiafor (Chairman)

2. Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (Vice Chairperson)

3. Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin (Ranking Member)

4. Hon. Patricia Appiagyei (Deputy Ranking Member)

5. Hon. Mahama Ayariga (Member)

6. Hon. Agness Naa Momo Lartey (Member)

7. Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Member)

8. Hon. Patrick Yaw Boamah (Member)

9. Hon. Shaibu Mahama (Member)

10. Hon. Alhassan Umar (Member)

11. Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza (Member)

Mandate of the Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee plays a critical role in scrutinizing the President’s nominees for major roles such as Ministers of State and their Deputies. It ensures that these appointments undergo thorough vetting before gaining parliamentary approval. This process is governed by the Constitution and relevant laws.

Leadership’s assurance

During a session in Parliament on January 8, 2025, Majority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the importance of the committee’s composition.

“The committee respectfully recommends to the House to adopt this report and approve the membership of the Appointments and Business Committees as composed, based on the ratio of 183 to 88,” he remarked.

With the approval now in place, Parliament is poised to begin the rigorous vetting process of nominees, reinforcing transparency and accountability in the appointment procedure.

The work of this committee will be vital in selecting the leadership team to support President Mahama in his new term.