Former Minister for Defence and Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to urgently appoint a substantive Minister for Defence to ensure effective leadership in addressing emerging security challenges across the country.
Following the tragic death of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, President Mahama directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to act as interim Defence Minister. However, more than two months later, the ministry remains without a permanent head.
Speaking to journalists in Parliament on Friday, October 24, Mr. Nitiwul expressed concern over the prolonged delay, warning that the absence of a substantive minister could hamper the ministry’s operations.
“The deputy cannot act as the defence minister. It is the reason the president asked the finance minister to act as the interim defence minister. We all know that the finance minister doesn’t have time. I think that it is time for the president to look for and nominate somebody to take over,” he said.
The Bimbilla MP emphasized that the deteriorating security situation within the West African sub-region requires decisive and focused leadership at the Defence Ministry.
“In the West Africa region, terrorism is becoming endemic. We are enjoying peace, but we are always threatened by insecurities around us, and I think we need somebody who will offer leadership,” Mr. Nitiwul noted.
He urged President Mahama to act swiftly by either promoting the current deputy minister or appointing a new candidate to ensure continuity and stability within the ministry.
“That long delay is not helpful,” he cautioned.
The call comes amid growing regional insecurity and concerns about Ghana’s preparedness to respond effectively to emerging threats.
