In a decisive move, Parliament has approved President John Dramani Mahama’s first batch of ministerial nominees.
The appointees include Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako Enyan Essiam, as Minister for Finance; Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, MP for Yapei Kusawgu, as Minister of Energy; and Hon. Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine as Attorney General and Minister for Justice.
The approval came after rigorous deliberations that underscored the nominees’ qualifications, vision, and the pressing challenges ahead.
Members of Parliament from both the NDC Majority and Minority caucuses voiced their opinions on the nominees, providing a thorough examination of their qualifications and the roles they are expected to assume.
Hon. Yussif Sulemana, MP for Bole Bamboi, extolled the virtues of the nominees, emphasizing their track records and the potential they bring to their respective ministries.
“The 3 gentlemen who have been nominated and vetted have served this nation. Mr Speaker we all know Honourable Ato Forson and we are aware of his humility as somebody who is very focused, very diligent and very knowledgeable and this was demonstrated when he was vetted his responses were apt”.
Hon. Yussif Sulemana, NDC MP for Bole Bamboi
He also lauded Hon. John Jinapor, highlighting his competence in energy and finance, and his promise to end the recurring energy crisis, popularly known as “dumsor.” “This young visionary leader has already assured us that pragmatic steps will be taken to ensure the lights stay on. His nomination is a beacon of hope,” Hon. Sulemana said.
Turning to Dr. Ayine, Hon. Sulemana praised his legal acumen, calling him a seasoned lawyer and educator whose credibility on both domestic and international fronts would enhance Ghana’s justice system. “This is a man of integrity who commands respect globally. His appointment brings a wealth of experience and credibility to the Ministry of Justice,” he added.
NPP Minority’s Perspective
On the other hand, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, MP for Ofoase Ayirebi, also weighed in, acknowledging the nominees’ competence but raising critical expectations.
He described the trio as “three wise men,” likening them to a similar team under the late President Mills administration. Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah highlighted the ambitious economic goals of Dr. Ato Forson, particularly his target to increase Ghana’s tax-to-GDP ratio from 13% to 18%.
While commending the initiative, he expressed concerns about balancing this goal with the removal of revenue-generating taxes, such as the e-levy and COVID-19 levy. “If he can achieve this without introducing new taxes or sacrificing ongoing projects, it will benefit all of us,” he stated.
Regarding Hon. Jinapor, Oppong Nkrumah underscored the need for tangible outcomes in energy management, such as stabilizing fuel prices and ensuring consistent electricity supply. “The people of Ghana expect solutions, not explanations,” he noted.
For Dr Ayine, Hon. Oppong Nkrumah stressed the need for infrastructure development in the justice sector, including magistrates’ residences and legal aid services. He urged the Attorney General-designate to prioritize these issues while maintaining fairness and integrity in the justice system.
The debate concluded with the Second Deputy Speaker, Hon. Andrews Asiamah, calling for a vote on the motion to approve the nominees. The majority of MPs resoundingly supported the motion, leading to the formal adoption of the President’s nominations.
“The motion is hereby adopted, and this honourable house has approved His Excellency the President’s nomination of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, John Abdulai Jinapor, and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine as Ministers for Finance, Energy, and Attorney General and Minister for Justice, respectively.”
Hon. Andrews Asiamah Amoako, MP for Fomena and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament
With their appointments confirmed, the three ministers are expected to be sworn into their respective roles by President John Dramani Mahama.
