By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
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, citing growing security challenges across the country and the West African sub-region.
His remarks come in the wake of the tragic passing of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, who served as Minister for Defence until his death in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. Following the incident, President Mahama appointed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, to act as interim Defence Minister a temporary measure that has now stretched for nearly three months without a permanent replacement.
Addressing journalists in Parliament on Friday, October 24, Nitiwul expressed deep concern over the prolonged vacancy at the Defence Ministry, stressing that the situation could undermine the ministry’s operational efficiency and Ghana’s overall security preparedness.
“The deputy cannot fulfill the role of the defence minister. This is why the president appointed the finance minister to serve as the interim defence minister. We all recognize that the finance minister has limited availability. I believe it is time for the president to seek and nominate someone to take over the position,” Nitiwul stated.
The former minister, who served under the previous administration, emphasized that the Defence Ministry plays a crucial role in maintaining national stability, particularly at a time when security threats are escalating in neighboring countries.
“In the West African region, terrorism is becoming widespread. While we are currently enjoying peace, we are constantly threatened by surrounding insecurities, and I believe we require someone who can provide effective leadership,” he added.
Nitiwul highlighted that the absence of a dedicated minister could impede strategic decision-making and coordination between the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and regional partners. He therefore urged President Mahama to make an immediate appointment either by promoting the current deputy or nominating a new candidate to restore stability and focus at the ministry.
“That prolonged delay is counterproductive,” he cautioned.
The Defence Ministry’s leadership vacuum has sparked broader debate about the importance of continuity in Ghana’s national security architecture. Analysts warn that as regional conflicts and extremist activities intensify in parts of the Sahel and coastal West Africa, Ghana must maintain strong defence leadership to safeguard its borders and internal peace.
While the Presidency has yet to respond to Nitiwul’s appeal, observers believe that filling the position swiftly would reassure the public and Ghana’s international partners of the government’s commitment to proactive security governance.
