By Nana Karikari, Senior Global Affairs Correspondent
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Klottey Korle Member of Parliament, Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology in a cabinet shake-up submitted to Parliament on Friday, August 7, 2026. This administrative move addresses long-standing vacancies created by the devastating August 2025 military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers. The process adheres to Article 78(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates parliamentary vetting and approval for all ministerial appointees before they assume office.
Elevation of Dr. Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings
The most prominent nomination is that of Dr. Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle. President Mahama has tapped her to serve as the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. Dr. Agyemang-Rawlings, daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings and former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, has held her legislative seat since 2017. Her appointment follows persistent public speculation regarding her potential entry into the cabinet. She brings relevant experience to the role, having served on the Parliamentary Committee for Environment, Science and Technology. Throughout her tenure, she has been a vocal advocate for systemic solutions to environmental issues, specifically focusing on urban flooding. If confirmed, she will succeed the late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Strategic reassignments across ministries
The reshuffle also involves the redeployment of seasoned legislators to stabilize government operations. Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga has been nominated as the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Additionally, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei moves from the Ministry of Works and Housing to take charge of the Ministry of Defence. Also, Ahmed Ibrahim, the Member of Parliament for Banda, has been reassigned to oversee the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the spokesperson for the Minister for Government Communications and the President, confirmed these changes in a formal statement.
Navigating the aftermath of the August 2025 tragedy
These appointments mark a critical step in President Mahama’s efforts to solidify his administration. The government has faced a challenging recovery period following the August 2025 helicopter crash. That incident tragically claimed the lives of eight officials, including two sitting cabinet ministers: Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and former Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has served as the acting Defence Minister in the interim. He is expected to finalize his transition once the newly nominated officials receive parliamentary approval. The nominees will now undergo the mandatory vetting process by the Appointments Committee of Parliament before the full House votes on their confirmation.
Moving forward, the success of these newly appointed leaders will heavily depend on their ability to restore full institutional capacity while maintaining public trust during a crucial transitional chapter for the nation.
