Security Expert Backs Zanetor Rawlings’ Appointment, Urges Patience With New Defence Minister

Security Expert Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has welcomed the appointment of Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, describing it as a good decision while urging Ghanaians to give newly appointed Defence Minister Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei time to prove his competence. Speaking in an interview with Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi on ICADTV’s Ghana Nti Morning Show, Mr. Asiedu Tetteh said Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, possesses the professional background and capacity to perform effectively in her new role. He pointed to her medical background as an indication of her ability to handle demanding responsibilities and expressed confidence that she can deliver in the Environment, Science and Technology Ministry. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings is expected to replace Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. On the appointment of Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei as Defence Minister, Mr. Asiedu Tetteh called on Ghanaians to exercise patience and assess the minister based on his performance rather than rushing to judgment. He said knowledge, sound judgment and experience are essential qualities for effectively managing the Defence Ministry. According to him, although Hon. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei previously served as Minister for Works and Housing, he has had exposure to the defence sector and should therefore be given the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities. Mr. Asiedu Tetteh further argued that considerable deliberations would have taken place within government and Cabinet before the recent ministerial reshuffle, and therefore the new appointees should be given sufficient time to work. Galamsey Concerns Touching on the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, the security expert alleged that some district commanders and members of the armed forces take bribes from illegal miners. He said such alleged conduct undermines efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural resources. Mr. Asiedu Tetteh also criticised what he described as a culture of waiting until problems escalate before taking decisive action. He expressed disappointment in President John Dramani Mahama for failing to declare a state of emergency to address the galamsey menace. According to him, if the President is genuinely committed to protecting Ghana’s environment and natural resources, stronger and more immediate measures must be adopted. He called for persons who deliberately continue engaging in illegal mining despite government directives to be arrested and prosecuted. Mr. Asiedu Tetteh also expressed disappointment over President Mahama’s reported position that three of his security advisers had advised him against declaring a state of emergency on galamsey. Edit by Angelina FOSUAA