The Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has vehemently denied claims that Foreign Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was “smuggled in” for vetting during the ministerial screening on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
Speaking before a parliamentary committee investigating the disruptions surrounding the vetting process, Agbodza clarified that Ablakwa’s appearance had been planned well in advance and was in line with procedural arrangements.
He explained that Ablakwa was originally scheduled to be vetted on January 30, but complications arose after the committee failed to vet five nominees slated for Wednesday, January 29. This delay was caused by an unanticipated appearance by social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, which disrupted the day’s proceedings.
“Tensions ran high on January 30 because the Majority insisted on moving forward with the vetting process, even though the Minority raised objections over what they described as a lack of consultation,” Agbodza recounted.
The Minority particularly opposed the vetting of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Health Minister-designate Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, leading to a heated standoff that culminated in the suspension of four MPs. This controversial decision was, however, overturned by Speaker Alban Bagbin on February 4.
In addressing the allegations, Agbodza dismissed assertions that Ablakwa’s appearance was a last-minute maneuver to bypass parliamentary procedures.
“Hon. Ablakwa had been seeking an opportunity to be vetted a week prior, but logistical constraints delayed his session. His vetting on January 30 was neither sudden nor a secret arrangement. These allegations are baseless,” Agbodza stated firmly.
He further elaborated on the committee’s decision to merge the nominees originally scheduled for January 29 with those planned for January 30.
“The spillover from Wednesday, January 29, meant five nominees were added to the three initially planned for Thursday. This brought the total to eight nominees vetted on January 30. This was a collective decision by the Appointments Committee to ensure the vetting schedule remained on track,” Agbodza explained.
He emphasized that this adjustment was a practical response to earlier delays and not an attempt to force through any nominee unethically.
The vetting controversy has sparked significant debate, with some accusing the Majority of disregarding due process, while others view the adjustments as necessary to maintain parliamentary efficiency. Agbodza’s comments aim to clarify the situation and restore confidence in the committee’s work.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
