Felix Kwakye Ofosu Criticizes Minority Caucus Over Opposition to Sam George’s Appointment
The Minister of State in Charge of Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has strongly criticized the Minority caucus in Parliament for what he described as their attempt to take on the functions of the judiciary.
His comments came after the Minority opposed the nomination of Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam Nartey George, as Minister of Communications-designate. The Minority’s opposition was based on Sam George’s past remarks, particularly his criticisms of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Felix Kwakye Ofosu expressed concern that the Minority did not base their opposition on constitutional, legal, or moral grounds but rather on issues he described as trivial.
I must express dismay about the reasons assigned for opposing, in particular, the nomination of Sam George. Mr. Speaker, I would have thought that they would cite some constitutional or legal impediments or even moral turpitude as the reason why his nomination cannot see the light of day,” he stated.
He further questioned why the Minority had positioned itself as a defender of the judiciary, arguing that the Chief Justice has her own means of addressing concerns.
Mr. Speaker, they would rather say that Honorable Sam George has run some commentary on the head of another state institution, the judiciary, and this raises the question of when they became the mouthpiece of the judiciary,” he added.
The Member of Parliament for Abura Asebu Kwamankese also raised concerns about the potential implications of the Minority’s stance. He warned that such actions could undermine the independence of state institutions and amount to legislative interference.
“As far as I know, the Chief Justice has adequate outlets to express disapproval or disagreements with anything that anybody says. We must respect the independence of state institutions and not take over their functions,” he emphasized.
Sam George Approved Despite Minority Opposition
Despite the Minority’s decision to abstain from voting, Sam George was eventually approved as Minister of Communications-designate following a majority vote in Parliament.
His appointment comes amid ongoing political debates, but the ruling government insists that he is qualified for the role, dismissing the Minority’s objections as unfounded.
Conclusion
The criticism from Felix Kwakye Ofosu highlights the ongoing tensions between the Majority and Minority in Parliament, especially concerning ministerial appointments. While the Minority maintains that Sam George’s past comments were inappropriate, the Majority argues that such concerns do not disqualify him from serving in government.
As Sam George assumes his new role, political observers will be keen to see how he handles the responsibilities of the Communications Ministry amidst the controversies surrounding his appointment.