Recent news surrounding the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed ministers has been dominated by the late arrival of Gender Minister-designate Agnes Naa Momo Lartey.
The acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, has offered clarification regarding the circumstances surrounding her delayed arrival, moving beyond simple explanations of lateness.
This situation highlights the complex interplay of personal emergencies and demanding political schedules.
The swearing-in ceremony was initially planned for six ministerial appointees whose nominations had been approved by Parliament.
However, the schedule was impacted by ongoing parliamentary deliberations that prompted last-minute adjustments.
The President’s team was also managing a heavy schedule that included travel to Ho and preparations for President Mahama to travel to Angola, Tanzania, and Kenya. Because of the scheduling conflicts, the swearing-in ceremony time was changed.
Efforts were made to contact all six approved nominees when it was clear Parliament could not meet the deadline for approvals of more nominees.
Five of the six nominees were nearby and could arrive at the Jubilee House quickly.
However, Naa Momo Lartey had traveled out of Accra due to a family emergency. She was encouraged to come and was told that if she arrived in time, she would be added to the ceremony.
The President’s team prepared two alternative speeches, one anticipating her presence and one her absence, indicating their preparedness for either scenario.
Despite the challenges, Naa Momo Lartey made an effort to attend, arriving just two minutes after the President began the ceremony.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye emphasized that the situation was beyond her control and that her effort to attend was out of respect for the president.
He also acknowledged public criticism of the delay but noted that the situation was not her fault.
The spokesperson assured that Naa Momo Lartey would be sworn in next week, dismissing any blame on her part.
