Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, Member of Parliament for Wa Central and minister of labour, jobs and employment designate, has had a distinguished career in both the private and public sectors. With a diverse academic background and years of experience in governance, Pelpuo has made significant contributions to Ghana’s political landscape.
Early Education and Academic Background
Pelpuo’s educational journey began in the early 1980s when he completed his O-Level education in 1983 and A-Level education in 1986. His academic pursuit continued with a diploma in Economics in 1994 and a degree in Psychology in 1994. Pelpuo’s passion for development and international relations led him to earn a master’s degree in International Affairs in 1998, further bolstered by a PhD in Development Policy from the University of Ghana’s African Studies program in 2013. His rich academic background has shaped his views on governance, policy, and socio-economic development.
Professional Career
Before entering politics, Pelpuo served as a consultant for the Institute of Policy Alternatives. His early involvement with the National Youth Council laid the foundation for his later political career. He worked his way up through various positions, including Deputy Coordinator of Finance, Director, and Agricultural Ag. Regional. This experience helped hone his leadership and strategic thinking.
Political Career and Contributions
Pelpuo entered the Parliament of Ghana in 2005 after winning the Wa Central seat on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). This marked the beginning of a long and influential political career. He quickly became a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics, contributing to national discourse and development.
Pelpuo served as a Minister of State at the Office of the President until September 2009, when President John Atta Mills moved him to the Ministry of Youth and Sports following the resignation of Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak. He held this position until January 2010, after which he became Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament. He was also nominated as one of Ghana’s representatives to the Pan African Parliament in South Africa, serving a term until 2013.
Under the John Mahama administration, Pelpuo was appointed Minister of State at the Office of the President in charge of Private Sector Development and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). He was also a key member of the Economic Management Team (EMT). Pelpuo’s tenure was marked by his strong commitment to economic reforms and fostering public-private collaborations
Return to Parliament and Leadership Roles
Pelpuo continued his political career with success in the 2016 elections, securing his seat in Wa Central for another four-year term. In Parliament, he became the Chairman of the Population and Development Caucus and the Leader of Parliamentarians for Global Action in the Ghana Chapter. He also held the critical position of Ranking Member on the Government Assurance Committee, where he worked diligently to hold government ministers accountable for their promises.
Pelpuo contested and won his fifth term as MP in the 2020 elections, continuing his leadership roles in Parliament. He was reappointed Chairman of the Population and Development Caucus, and also held the position of Ranking Member of the Lands Committee. He remains an active member of the Energy and Business Committees.
Legacy and Impact
Rashid Pelpuo’s career has been marked by his dedication to national development, youth empowerment, and economic growth. His work in both the public and private sectors has had a lasting impact, particularly in the areas of private sector development, governance, and youth affairs. As a minister of labour, jobs and employment designate, Ghanaians are looking forward to a collaborative effort between the labour unions and government when he is finally approved.
