The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called on the government to expedite the appointment of a substantive Minister of Defence to strengthen oversight and reporting on urgent national security matters.
Speaking in Parliament during a statement on the El Wak Sports Stadium stampede tragedy, Mr. Bagbin clarified that his appeal was not due to a lack of confidence in the acting Defence Minister. Rather, he emphasized that a substantive minister would be better positioned to provide timely and comprehensive reports to Parliament on pressing security issues.
The Speaker further directed the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament to take a keen interest in the ongoing investigations into the El Wak Sports Stadium recruitment exercise tragedy, which claimed six lives and left several injured.
He stressed the importance of Parliament’s involvement in ensuring accountability and transparency in the probe.
Mr. Bagbin’s remarks underscored the urgency of strengthening institutional leadership within the Defence Ministry, particularly at a time when public confidence in security management is critical.
His call adds to growing voices urging government to act swiftly in filling the vacancy to safeguard national security.
Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the former Defence Minister died in the Obuasi helicopter tragedy on August 6, 2025.
Credit: GNA
