Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s decision not to immediately appoint a new Minister of Defence following the passing of Dr. Omane Boamah.
Mr. Kotoko described the President’s approach as a mark of composure and sound leadership rather than indecision.
“President Mahama is not under any pressure to appoint a substantive minister at this point. What he is demonstrating is true leadership.
There is already a capable Deputy Minister, my colleague Brogya Genfi, who supports the caretaker minister effectively,” he said on Channel One TV on Monday, October 13.
Mr. Kotoko noted that the President’s decision reflects a commitment to stability and prudent governance.
He stressed that rushing to fill the position could undermine the careful balance the administration is maintaining in the wake of Dr. Boamah’s death.
He further highlighted that President Mahama has managed the affairs of government with remarkable efficiency despite having a lean team compared to the previous administration.
“President Mahama has operated with just 56 ministers for several months. Even with the recent additions bringing the number to 58, it’s still far more efficient than the 125 ministers under the previous administration,” he explained.
According to Mr. Kotoko, the President’s focus remains on maintaining effective coordination across ministries rather than bowing to public pressure.
