A private legal practitioner has sharply criticised Ghana’s Deputy Minister-designate for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, over what she described as a “shocking” response to a basic question on coding during his parliamentary vetting.
Vickie Bright, speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Monday, said Mr Sukparu’s response revealed a troubling gap in understanding, particularly worrying given the ministry’s central role in driving Ghana’s digital transformation.
“I am truly shocked. This is someone about to become a Deputy Minister of State, a pivotal role in a sector crucial to our national development,” Ms Bright said.
During his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, the Sissala West MP was asked by NPP lawmaker Jerry Ahmed Shaib to explain the term “coding”. Mr Sukparu responded by equating coding with general IT training.
“Coding is providing training for young men and women in the IT space,” he said. “Training them in web design, training them in how to build software, and what have you. Basically, this is what coding is, Mr Chairman.”
The answer drew visible surprise from members of the Committee. Shaib responded tactfully: “You should understand coding some more, but I wish you well.”
The exchange quickly drew public attention, raising broader concerns about the preparedness of key government figures in leading complex digital policy.
Ms Bright, who is also a governance advocate, described the inability to define coding as “very basic” and said Mr Sukparu must “go and do his homework.”
“This Ministry is not just about communication anymore,” she said. “It’s about innovation, digital skills, AI, and preparing our youth for the future. The NDC manifesto is very clear. The Minister-designate should already be fluent in these terms not fumbling over them.”
The ministry is currently rolling out the One Million Coders Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at equipping Ghanaian youth with coding and digital skills to boost employment and technological innovation.
Ms Bright expressed concern that Mr Sukparu’s lack of technical understanding could hinder the ministry’s effectiveness, especially alongside Minister Sam George, whom she described as “very competent”.
“I don’t know whether the Minister is going to operate with one hand behind his back,” she said.
The Communications Ministry, recently restructured to reflect Ghana’s digital ambitions, is expected to play a leading role in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and skills training.
