In the wake of the recent Obuasi AngloGold clash, newly approved Finance Minister Hon. Ato Forson from the majority in Parliament has addressed the press providing clarity on the government’s stance and condemning the politicization of the incident.

Hon. Ato Forson’s statement followed a directive from President John Dramani Mahama for a full-scale investigation into the tragic event, which resulted in various injuries and the regrettable demise of several individuals.

Meanwhile, the clash in Obuasi has sparked significant concern across the nation. In his address, Hon. Ato Forson described the event as “most regrettable,” emphasizing that the government had swiftly responded by ordering a thorough investigation. Hon. Ato Forson assured the public that the investigation would be “impartial, and timely.” He lamented;

“Following this incident, we in parliament have noted a desperate attempt by the NPP minority in parliament to politicize the matter.’’
Hon. Ato Forson Finance Minister

A substantial portion of Forson’s address was dedicated to criticizing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) minority for what he perceived as an attempt to exploit the tragedy for political gain.

“The NPP falsely claims that there is a so-called upsurged in political violence in the country,” Forson remarked. He further condemned this assertion by the NPP for creating “a misleading impression that the unfortunate demise of the minors is as a result of political violence.”

Hon. Ato Forson, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) majority caucus in parliament, firmly condemned the NPP minority’s actions. He labeled their reaction as “cheap politics” and urged them to sympathize with the bereaved families and recognize the government’s proactive measures.

He expressed disappointment in the opposition for not supporting the government’s efforts to address the situation responsibly.

Call for Unity and Collaboration

Amidst the criticism, Hon. Ato Forson extended an olive branch to the NPP, inviting them to collaborate with the NDC in addressing the nation’s challenges. He advised;

“It is obvious that NPP is yet to recover from the shock of its monumental defeat – we urge them to come to terms with the resounding defeat that they suffered in the last election and allow the two weeks old government to stir the affairs of state in line with the mandate of the people of Ghana.’’
Hon. Ato Forson Finance Minister

Hon. Ato Forson’s call for unity emphasized the importance of bipartisan efforts to help build the country amid the economic challenges. He reaffirmed;

“Finally, we wish to assure the people of Ghana that pursuant to the directive of His Excellency, efficient investigations would be carried out in due course in the matter that has just happened at Obuasi and the NDC does not subscribe to violence. We want to assure the people of Ghana once again that the NDC majority caucus stands ready to work with the NPP if they so desire to work with us in ensuring that whatever we do, we will together help the people of Ghana recover from the massive economic shackles that they’ve left behind.”
Hon. Ato Forson Finance Minister

Hon. Ato Forson’s address highlighted the government’s commitment to justice and unity in the aftermath of the Obuasi AngloGold clash.

By condemning the politicization of the incident and inviting collaboration, Forson set a tone of hope and cooperation for Ghana’s future under the NDC’s leadership.