President John Dramani Mahama has made a significant move by appointing Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, effective 17th January 2025. This decision was officially confirmed through a letter signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama.
In accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 11(1) of the Petroleum Commission Act 2011 (Act 821), the appointment of Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle is subject to the necessary advice of the Commission’s Board, in consultation with the Public Services Commission.
Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle boasts an impressive professional background, currently serving as a Director at Lithur Brew & Company (LBC). She was called to the Ghana Bar in 1995 and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Law and Sociology from the University of Ghana, as well as a Master of Law (LLM) in Banking & Finance from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science.
In a parallel move on the same day, President Mahama also appointed Edward Bawa, the former Member of Parliament for Bongo, as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). This appointment aligns with the relevant legal provisions, including Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 10(2) of the GNPC Act, 1983 (P.N.D.C.L.64). The finalization of Edward Bawa’s appointment is contingent upon the advice of the Honourable Minister for Energy, in consultation with the Public Services Commission.
Edward Abambire Bawa, a two-term MP for Bongo representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured his seat in 2016 and successfully defended it in 2020. However, he faced a setback in his quest for a third term when he lost during the party’s primaries in May 2023.
These appointments to key positions in state institutions signal the government’s commitment to ensuring effective leadership and governance in the petroleum sector. Both Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle and Edward Bawa bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles, setting the stage for positive developments within the industry under their leadership.
