Dr Zanetor Agyeman Rawlings is Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey
Security analyst Dr Ishmael Norman is calling for a historic shift in Ghana’s defence leadership, urging President John Dramani Mahama to appoint a woman as the country’s next Minister of Defence.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Dr Norman said the time has come to move away from the long-standing tradition of men occupying the defence ministry.
According to him, appointing a qualified woman would not only strengthen policy direction in the sector but also send a powerful message to women and girls across the country.
“It will be for reputational benefit, and this thing will be so high up before all women, all girls, that it will be amazing the benefits of that appointment. We are tired of men; appoint a woman, President. Please, please, appoint a woman,” he appealed.
Dr Norman specifically mentioned Korle Klottey Member of Parliament, Dr Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings, as a strong candidate for the role.
He pointed to her work on Parliament’s Defence and Interior subcommittee, her involvement with the Intelligence subcommittee, and her participation in programmes at the Ghana Armed Forces Staff College as evidence of her preparedness.
Pressure mounts on President Mahama to appoint defence minister
“She has quite a lot of qualifications. She has proven her worth as a medical doctor, parliamentarian, and disciplined professional,” he said.
“There is not an iota of any bad thing said about her. She has been groomed for that role, and it is high time she is elevated to that position.”
Beyond individual credentials, Dr Norman referenced Ghana’s affirmative action law, which seeks to ensure that women occupy at least 25 percent of top leadership positions in organizations, a benchmark he noted has not yet been achieved within the defence sector.
While strongly advocating for a female appointment, he acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with President Mahama, in consultation with the Council of State and the military high command. He stressed that such an important role requires careful deliberation.
Dr Norman also spoke about Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Bronya Genfi, describing him as measured and diplomatic, particularly given the sensitive nature of the ministry. He commended his professionalism and dedication, adding that any final appointment must be the result of broad consultation among key state actors.
NA/AM
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