Speaker of the House of Representatives Alban Bagbin has demanded that a substantive defense minister be appointed as soon as possible in the wake of the deadly stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium during the Ghana Armed Forces recruitment drill.
Concerns regarding the Ghana Armed Forces’ hiring procedure and safety protocols have been brought to light by the tragedy, which claimed six lives and injured numerous more.
In his Wednesday speech to the House, Bagbin underlined that although Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Acting Defense Minister, is competent, the position needs a substantive leader to deliver comprehensive reports and handle urgent matters.
“I will direct our committee to follow up on the process and emphasize what others have said, to expedite the appointment of a substantive minister,” he stated.
Bagbin clarified, “It’s not because the current acting minister is not capable, but we know the pressures on him, and we need someone who can provide full reports and address some of the issues you’ve raised.”
The Speaker also called for uniformity in reporting and oversight, cautioning against delays that can result in catastrophic consequences and administrative errors.
“We don’t have to wait and do it once every year or sometimes two years, causing a backlog that leads to rushed processes and tragic outcomes,” he stated.
Bagbin also urged the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament to consult with interested parties and report comprehensive results to the House.
“With your support, the Committee on Defence and Interior should follow up on this matter. Later, you can schedule a date to present a full brief from the committee and the minister, as civil society is actively debating this issue, and many proposals have been put forward,” he continued.
Source: newsthemegh.com