The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for the immediate appointment of a permanent Minister for Defence to provide strong leadership for the ministry.
Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, Speaker Bagbin stated that the Defence Ministry requires steady, full-time oversight given the complex and demanding responsibilities it faces.
He acknowledged that although the acting minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has shown competence and dedication, the burden of his multiple roles makes it necessary to appoint a full-time minister to oversee defense affairs.
“I will instruct the committee to follow up on the process and reiterate the call for the swift appointment of a substantive minister. This is not a question of capability. Dr. Forson is more than capable, but the workload is heavy, and we need someone who can give the ministry’s operations and reporting their undivided attention,” the Speaker explained.
His remarks came as Members of Parliament took turns sharing their condolences and concerns over the tragic stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, which happened during the ongoing Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise.
Speaker Bagbin also used the opportunity to question Ghana’s recruitment model, urging authorities to adopt a more consistent and structured approach to prevent overcrowding and related incidents.
“Have to wait for one large intake every year or two, creating backlogs and pressure that lead to chaotic situations. With your support, I expect the Defence and Interior Committee to take this up and later provide a comprehensive report to the House,” he added.
The Speaker stressed the importance of a transparent, well-organized recruitment process, noting that civil society and stakeholders have put forward several proposals to enhance the current system.
