Speaker refers two ministerial nominees to Appointments Committee

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has referred two ministerial nominees to the Appointments Committee for review and consideration. The nominees are Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who is the Minister-designate for Environment, Science and Technology, and Mahama Ayariga, who is the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

This referral took place on Monday, August 24, 2026, during an emergency session of Parliament after the Speaker formally informed the House of the President's nominations.

Bagbin stated, "I accordingly refer the two to the Appointments Committee for consideration and report to the House." He also reminded the Appointments Committee of the limited timeframe for the emergency recall of Parliament. "I want to remind the House that the period I gave in my notice is for a sitting of one week and that should be taken into consideration by the Appointments Committee," he added.

The Appointments Committee will need to complete its work within the available period to permit the necessary subsequent motions to be brought before the House, as per Parliament's Standing Orders. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings is set to head the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, while Mahama Ayariga is expected to assume the role of Majority Leader for the Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs portfolio, should Parliament approve these nominations.