.... They Risk Disqualification
Accra, Jan 29 2005 (JoyOnline) -- Four nominees for ministerial positions stand the risk of been disqualified by Parliament's Appointments Committee which vetted the President Kufuor's nominees throughout this week.

Speaking to a local radio station, JoyFM, a member of the committee, John Mahama, said fresh evidence that have come against the four would make it difficult for them to gain the nod of the committee.

But, the NDC MP for Bole Bamboi, failed to provide any names.

He said evidence seen now suggests that the four lied under oath when they appeared before the committee and unless they are able to prove beyond any reasonable doubt, they might not go through.

The vetting of the first batch of 34 nominees ended on Friday in an exercise which has been described as highly successful in many quaters.

Some minority members on the committee have been commended highly in media discussions for their indepth and critical grilling of nominees who appeared before the committee.

Some nominees who appeared before the committee also made some dramatic revelations.
The minister designate for Fisheries who is acting minister for Women and children's affairs, Mrs. Gladys Asmah told the committee that she had not seen the Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy report on the incidence and prevalence of poverty in the country eventhough she claimed to be fighting poverty all this while.
The committee members saw it strange that she could not even measure her performance in that respect when asked to do so.
On his part, the Trade and Industry, Allan Kyeremateng, could not provide the vision of his ministry when he took over in 2002 and also provide any statistics to support his performance so far. He even did not know Ghana's Balance of Trade Payments as at the time he appeared before the committee.
But Mr. Mahama told JoyNews that the committee would compile a report for the consideration of the entire members of Parliament on Tuesday when the House opens for business.
He said even though the majority members have the numbers to pass their team through, the minority would be quick to let the President know who is capable or otherwise.