Ghana’s national security hangs in the balance as the country awaits the appointment of a new Minister of Defence—a decision that has sparked both concern and controversy. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is President John Dramani Mahama delaying this crucial appointment due to pragmatism or indecision? Let’s dive in.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, recently addressed the growing public outcry over the vacant position. Speaking on Channel One on October 27, 2025, Ofosu assured the nation that President Mahama is committed to selecting the most qualified leader for the Ministry of Defence—a sector vital to Ghana’s safety and stability. And this is the part most people miss: Ofosu emphasized that the president’s decision-making process is both pragmatic and professional, despite the emotional weight of the late Minister Omane Boamah’s passing.
“President Mahama fully understands the gravity of this responsibility,” Ofosu stated. “While he shared a close relationship with the late Minister, he recognizes that the nation’s security cannot wait. The right leader will be appointed, and policies will be implemented to safeguard our country’s development and security.”
These remarks come amid sharp criticism from Members of Parliament, security experts, and the public, who argue that the prolonged vacancy jeopardizes Ghana’s security, especially as instability grows in the West African sub-region. Here’s the bold truth: Some believe the delay is a dangerous gamble, while others trust the president’s timing. Which side are you on?
Dominic Nitiwul, former Minister of Defence and Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, has been vocal about the urgency of the situation. Speaking to journalists on October 24, 2025, he warned that the interim arrangement—with Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson temporarily overseeing the Defence Ministry—is insufficient. “The deputy cannot act as the Defence Minister,” Nitiwul stressed. “We need strong, focused leadership, especially as terrorism becomes endemic in West Africa.”
Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South, echoed this sentiment in a scathing post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 25, 2025. He described the delay as “irresponsible” and warned that Ghana’s territorial integrity is at risk. “Nearly three months without a substantive Defence Minister is reckless,” he wrote. “What a dangerous inaction!”
The pressure on President Mahama intensified following the tragic August 6, 2025, helicopter crash that claimed the life of then-Minister of Defence Dr. Edward Omane Boamah. While the president’s interim solution was understandable, the growing insecurity in the region has left many questioning the delay. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Is the president waiting for the perfect candidate, or is there a deeper political strategy at play? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Ghana’s Defence Ministry needs decisive leadership—and fast. The question remains: Who will step up, and when? Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.
