The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on the government to expedite the appointment of a substantive Minister of Defence to enhance oversight and ensure effective reporting on national security matters.
Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday during a statement on the El Wak Sports Stadium stampede, which claimed six lives, Mr Bagbin clarified that his appeal was not due to a lack of confidence in the Acting Minister of Defence.
He explained that a substantive minister would be better positioned to provide timely and comprehensive briefings to Parliament on pressing national security issues.
The Speaker also directed the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament to take a keen interest in the ongoing investigations into the El Wak Sports Stadium recruitment tragedy.
He stressed the importance of parliamentary oversight in promoting accountability and transparency in the probe.
Mr Bagbin’s comments highlighted the need for strengthened leadership within the Defence Ministry, especially at a time when public confidence in security management remains critical.
The call adds to growing appeals for the swift appointment of a substantive minister following the death of Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the former Defence Minister, in the Obuasi helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
