Parliament approves Ayariga, Zanetor as Ministers

Parliament has approved the nominations of Mahama Ayariga and Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings to serve as Ministers for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and Environment, Science and Technology respectively.

The approval came after both nominees appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for vetting, in line with the constitutional requirement for scrutinising presidential nominees for ministerial positions.

Mahama Ayariga, a former Majority Leader and Chairman of Parliament’s Business Committee, was nominated by President John Dramani Mahama to lead the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings was nominated to head the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, where she will be responsible for areas such as environmental protection, scientific research, technological advancement and policies aimed at addressing environmental challenges.

The two nominees appeared before the Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, where they were questioned on their competence, experience and suitability for their respective portfolios.

Following the vetting, the Committee recommended both nominees for approval, leading to their subsequent confirmation by Parliament.

Their approval is part of President Mahama’s ongoing reorganisation of his ministerial team as his government works to implement its policy priorities in local governance, environmental sustainability, science and technology.

Ayariga is expected to draw on his extensive parliamentary and political experience in his new role, while Dr Agyeman-Rawlings will oversee the government’s programmes in environmental protection, scientific development and technology.