This Ministerial one made news when he had pressed for a better portfolio soon after he was appointed to oversee travel by land. Later he insisted that he be given charge of travel by air as well.
This Ministerial one is in the news again in connection with an incident where he had flexed his political muscles.
Even before the subjects and functions of his portfolio were gazetted, this one had called at the head office of the country’s national airline and ordered its chief to vacate his chair forthwith. “Now that this company has come under my charge, I want to appoint someone of my choice to run it the way I want,” he had told the incumbent chief.
However, the incumbent air chief being one who cannot be easily browbeaten had stood his ground and answered in a firm tone: “I have been appointed to this position by an authority higher than you! So I am going to stand pat here for all you care!” In a heated exchange that ensured the Ministerial one had his say, but the air chief had his way, they say.
Those who have reasons to be concerned over this row are eagerly waiting to know the final outcome: whether the incumbent air chief will have to go home or the Ministerial one will have to beat a retreat!
.jpg)
