President John Dramani Mahama has appointed maritime academic Evans Ago Tetteh as Ghana’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), tasking him with leading the country’s engagement on global maritime governance, safety and security.
Dr Ago Tetteh, a lecturer at the Department of Transport of the Regional Maritime University, will represent Ghana at the London-based United Nations agency responsible for regulating international shipping.
In his new role, he will serve as the main diplomatic and technical liaison between Ghana and the IMO, handling matters relating to maritime policy, regulation and cooperation between the organisation and the Government of Ghana.
The appointment introduces a shift from the previous practice where Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom simultaneously served as the country’s representative to the organisation. Until now, the position had been held by Sabah Zita Benson, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, who recently led the country’s delegation at the 34th IMO Assembly in London.
Sources indicate that as Permanent Representative, Dr Ago Tetteh will enjoy privileges and responsibilities similar to those of a Ghanaian ambassador abroad, including official accommodation, transportation and other diplomatic entitlements.
His appointment has sparked discussion within sections of the maritime and academic community, particularly among some lecturers at the Regional Maritime University who have expressed disappointment over the selection.
Dr Ago Tetteh is married to journalist and presidential staffer Bridget Otoo, who was recently appointed to the Office of the President.
Despite the concerns raised by some critics, there has been little dispute over Dr Ago Tetteh’s academic background and expertise in maritime and transport studies.
He is expected to assume office soon and present his credentials to the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization as Ghana’s official representative to the global maritime body.
