In the wake of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of key government officials, including two sitting ministers, President Mahama has made swift interim appointments to fill the leadership vacuum in critical ministries.
Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the current Minority Leader in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, has been appointed as the Acting Minister for Defence, while Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah, Member of Parliament for Ellembelle and Deputy Minority Leader, will serve as Acting Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.
The appointments were announced in a press statement issued by the Office of the President, following an emergency cabinet session held at the Jubilee House in Accra.
Temporary but Strategic Leadership
The interim appointments are aimed at ensuring continuity and stability in the administration of national security and environmental affairs, especially in a period of national mourning and heightened public concern.
The decision comes after the untimely demise of:
- Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
- Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment
Both officials were among the eight individuals killed in a devastating military helicopter crash near Obuasi in the Ashanti Region earlier this week.
Presidential Directive
According to the statement from the Presidency, Dr Ato Forson and Hon. Buah will assume their respective roles with immediate effect, pending further consultation and permanent appointments.
“In these difficult times, the government remains committed to safeguarding national security and environmental governance,” the statement read.
“The President believes that Hon. Forson and Hon. Buah possess the requisite experience, temperament, and leadership to steer these ministries in the interim.”
National Reactions
The appointments have been widely viewed as pragmatic, considering both men’s extensive legislative experience and deep involvement in national policy development. Though members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), their selection underscores a broader effort at national unity during a time of grief.
Political analysts suggest the appointments also signal a bipartisan approach to national healing and governance, especially as the country awaits the findings of the official investigation into the crash.
State Funeral Plans Underway
Meanwhile, arrangements are being made for a state funeral to honour the deceased, which includes senior military officers and prominent politicians. The government has declared a week of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country.
Stay with My News Ghana for the latest developments on this story and full coverage of the helicopter crash investigation and national response.
Source – My News Ghana
