Former MP Dickson Adomako Kissi Urges President Mahama to Appoint Substantive Defence Minister
Former Anyaa Sowutuom MP, Dickson Adomako Kissi, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to appoint a substantive Defence Minister and relieve Cassiel Ato Forson of his additional role as Acting Defence Minister, citing administrative inefficiency and potential risks to national security coordination.
Speaking on Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV on Tuesday, March 17, Adomako Kissi argued that the defence portfolio is too critical to be managed alongside the demanding responsibilities of the Finance Ministry.
He stressed that the dual role places excessive pressure on Ato Forson, which could negatively affect efficiency in both sectors.
“I will plead with you, Mr President, that it has been a bit too long. Administratively, it is not helping the country. Ato Forson is already burdened with stabilising the economy, and that load is troubling. Please relieve him of this double role so we can fully appreciate that defence is pivotal to our economic growth,” he stated.
The former lawmaker also highlighted the link between investor confidence and national security, warning that any perceived weakness in defence leadership could discourage investment and slow economic recovery.
His call comes in the aftermath of a tragic helicopter crash in Tema on Monday, March 16, 2026, which claimed two lives. The aircraft, travelling from Ho in the Volta Region to Accra, reportedly went down at Oninku Drive School Park in Tema Community One, near the city’s central business district.
