Ghanaians React as Deputy Minister Nominee Fumbles ‘Coding’ Definition During Vetting

During a recent parliamentary vetting, Deputy Minister-designate for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, gave a puzzling response when asked to define the term “coding.”

The question, posed by New Patriotic Party MP Jerry Ahmed Shaib, triggered laughter in the chamber after Sukparu’s answer failed to meet basic expectations for someone nominated to oversee Ghana’s digital sector.

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The incident has since sparked widespread reactions online. Many Ghanaians expressed concern over the nominee’s apparent lack of understanding of a fundamental digital concept. Critics argued that such gaps in knowledge raise serious questions about the readiness of appointees tasked with steering the country’s technological development.

At the same time, others defended Sukparu, suggesting he may have attempted to simplify the term for a general audience rather than give a technical explanation. They acknowledged the definition was inaccurate but urged a more nuanced perspective.

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The moment has reignited public debate about the importance of digital literacy in government leadership and the qualifications required for roles in Ghana’s fast-evolving tech space.