I regret Ghana’s insulting political environment – Mustapha Hamid

The Information Minister-designate, Mustapha Hamid, has expressed remorse over some scathing invective he spewed on his political opponents during electioneering last year.

“I regret the polluted political environment that enables people from both sides of the political divide to throw such invective into the public space and poison the atmosphere,” he told the Appointments Committee of Parliament Thursday during his vetting.

“I regret that environment very much,” he reiterated, adding that “If by your grace I’m Minister In Sha Allah I shall work to rid our environment of such pollution – I promise you.”

He said if approved by the committee as a minister, he would contribute his quota in ensuring a serene political environment devoid of “insults and mudslinging” of one another.

“I will try my best to create that environment,” he emphasized. Continuing, he said among other things that the Information Services’ Department is heavily under resourced requiring immediate retooling to ensure effective delivery.

“When we retool the Information Services’ Department, I believe the Staff can do a good job,” said Mr. Hamid.

Also, he said the aim of the Akufo-Addo government will be to revamp the Ghana Publishing Company pledging that he would position the Information Ministry as the lead government agency for the “timely and efficient dissemination of information.”

Profile of Mustapha Hamid

Mustapha Abdul-Hamid is 45 years old. He holds a Diploma in Education, Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious Studies and a Master of Philosophy Degree, also in Religious Studies, all from the University of Cape Coast.

He is presently a Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Cape Coast, where he specializes in the areas of Islam & Gender and Political Thought in Islam.

Prior to take up teaching, he worked in the media in various capacities as Editor of the High Street Journal, Editor of the Statesman newspaper, News Editor at the then Choice FM and Strategy 4 Planning Manager at Media Majique & Research Systems.

He has published widely in many prestigious academic journals around the world. In politics, he was National Youth Organiser of the NPP from 2002-2005.

He has been Spokesperson for the President from 2007 to date. He is married with five children.