The Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has sharply rebuked President John Dramani Mahama for what he terms an “irresponsible delay” in naming a new Minister for Defence, warning that the vacancy has left Ghana exposed during a period of mounting security threats.
It has been almost three months since the passing of the late Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, who held the defence portfolio.
Despite the critical nature of the ministry, President Mahama is yet to nominate a substantive successor, a move Rev. Fordjour says is endangering the nation.
“Nearly three months without a substantive Defence Minister is a dangerous gamble and reckless potential compromise of our territorial integrity. What a dangerous inaction!” the MP wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) page on Saturday, October 25.
Rev. Fordjour’s statement comes at a time when Ghana is grappling with ongoing tensions and instability in border regions such as Gbenyiri, Sampa, and conflict-prone Bawku, as well as the persistent threats posed by illegal mining syndicates.
According to recent reports from the Ghana Refugee Board, more than 23,000 Ghanaian citizens have crossed into neighbouring countries in recent months, fleeing violence and insecurity.
The MP questioned the President’s reluctance to fill the vital post, raising concerns about leadership within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its ability to respond to the country’s defence needs.
“No serious country will run three months without a substantive Defence Minister,” Fordjour asserted, demanding immediate action to reinforce the Ghana Armed Forces and protect the nation’s borders.
Security analysts have noted that the protracted vacancy comes amid a regional surge in cross-border crime, armed incursions, and the threat of extremist violence spilling into Ghana from the Sahel.
The Defence Ministry oversees not only the military but also key national security operations and international defence partnerships.
A leadership vacuum, experts warn, could slow response times, affect morale within the ranks, and weaken Ghana’s security posture.
While the Presidency has yet to respond publicly to Rev. Fordjour’s criticism, opposition and civil society groups have echoed calls for swift appointment to the ministry, emphasising the need for continuity and strong leadership.
Rev. Fordjour ended his critique with an appeal for President Mahama to act urgently, arguing that the stability and safety of millions depend on decisive leadership.
He asked pointedly whether there was “no suitable person in the NDC who can be trusted” to take up the role, amplifying public debate about the government’s succession planning and crisis management protocols.
As insecurity grows and pressure mounts, the spotlight remains firmly on the Presidency to fill the critical gap and reassure Ghanaians of the government’s commitment to national defence.
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