Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has advised President John Dramani Mahama to address the nation regarding the ongoing delay in appointing a substantive minister for defence.
While acknowledging that the delay may be rooted in sound strategic reasoning, Mr Tetteh emphasised the importance of transparency to curb public speculation.
He noted that because there is no shortage of qualified individuals capable of occupying the role, the president should communicate his specific motivations to the Ghanaian people.
Although the ministry is capable of functioning without a formal head in the short term, Mr Tetteh argued that a permanent appointment is necessary to maintain public confidence and eliminate any sense of uncertainty within the security sector.
Regarding the current leadership structure, Mr Tetteh described the decision to have the finance minister serve as the acting defence minister as a daunting arrangement.
He pointed out that the finance minister already manages an incredibly demanding schedule, making the addition of the defence portfolio an overwhelming responsibility that could hinder efficiency.
“In all honesty, we have to have a substantive defence minister. There are several people who can be appointed, and so we cannot delay with the appointment. President Mahama must communicate with Ghanaians why he has delayed. He may have sound reasons for the delay, and there is nothing wrong with telling us why he has delayed.
Beyond this viewpoint, as analysts, we don’t think it was so crucial for a defence minister to be at post before the place can work efficiently. There may be many reasons for the delay, but to avoid speculations and expel fear out of the system, we have to get the substantive defence minister.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana