Parliament approves Mahama Ayariga and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as ministers

Parliament Gives Nod to Two Nominees

Parliament has approved the nominations of Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. The approval was given on Thursday evening, August 27, 2026, after the two nominees appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for vetting earlier in the day. The House approved both nominations through a voice vote, with the Speaker declaring that the Ayes had it.

Approval in Accordance with Constitution

Announcing the decision, the Speaker said the approval was made in accordance with Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

“Honourable Members, the Ayes have it. This Honourable House has accordingly approved the nominations of His Excellency the President of the following persons as Ministers of State in accordance with Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution,” the Speaker declared.

The decision followed consideration of the Appointments Committee’s report on the nominees after their vetting.

Zanetor Outlines Environmental Priorities

During her appearance before the committee, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings outlined her vision for the Environment, Science and Technology Ministry, touching on climate finance, plastic waste management and the application of science and technology to environmental challenges.

She called for increased investment in research and innovation, particularly support for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to develop biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics.

Dr Agyeman-Rawlings also advocated stronger measures to tackle pollution from landfills. Among her proposals was the use of non-permeable bases at landfill sites to prevent leachate from seeping into and contaminating soil and groundwater.

Ayariga Set to Lead Local Government Ministry

Mahama Ayariga, whose nomination was also approved by Parliament, is expected to take charge of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

His vetting provided an opportunity for the Appointments Committee to assess his competence, policy priorities and plans for the ministry.

His responsibilities will include matters relating to local governance, chieftaincy and religious affairs as he prepares to assume the portfolio.

Approval Clears Way for Ministerial Roles

The parliamentary approval clears the way for both nominees to be formally appointed and assume their respective ministerial responsibilities, subject to the completion of the remaining constitutional processes.

Their approval brings them a step closer to taking up their portfolios and implementing their respective policy priorities within government.