Seasoned Ghanaian politician and legal luminary, Cletus Apul Avoka, has been appointed as a member of the Council of State.
This appointment adds to his extensive public service career, reflecting his enduring commitment to Ghana’s governance and development.
Born on November 30, 1951, in Zebilla in the Upper East Region, Avoka’s educational journey began at Navrongo Secondary School.
He later attended the University of Ghana, earning a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree in 1976, followed by a Barrister-at-Law qualification from the Ghana School of Law in 1978.
Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning, he obtained an Executive Master of Arts in Conflict, Peace, and Security in 2015.
Avoka’s political trajectory commenced in 1993 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Bawku West constituency, a position he held until 2005.
During this period, he served as the Minister for Lands and Forestry under President Jerry John Rawlings.
In 2009, he returned to Parliament representing the Zebilla constituency and was appointed Minister for the Interior by President John Atta Mills, serving until January 2010.
He also held the role of Majority Leader in Parliament during his tenure.
In December 2024, after a distinguished 24-year legislative career, Avoka announced his decision to retire from active politics, expressing gratitude to his constituents for their unwavering support.
At 73, Avoka’s appointment to the Council of State is a testament to his vast experience and dedication to public service.
The Council, established to counsel the President in the performance of his functions, will undoubtedly benefit from Avoka’s rich legal and political expertise.
Avoka’s personal life is marked by his Catholic faith.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Cletus Avoka’s wealth of experience is poised to contribute significantly to the deliberations and guidance provided by the Council of State, further shaping Ghana’s democratic journey.