In a heartfelt farewell address in Ghana’s Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency, formally concluded his tenure as Majority.
His speech, delivered before the August House, highlighted a legacy of service, unity, and leadership that has significantly shaped the nation’s parliamentary history.
Dr. Forson, who led the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus for two years, transitioned from Minority Leader during the 8th Parliament to Majority Leader following the party’s resounding victory in the 2024 general elections.
Reflecting on his time in leadership, he expressed profound gratitude to his colleagues in leadership, the Speaker of Parliament, and key figures within the NDC for their unwavering support and guidance.
“Today marks the official conclusion of my journey within the leadership ranks of this August house. It has been a remarkable period during which I transitioned from minority leader to majority leader. With this address, I formally take my leave as the leader of the NDC super majority caucus in parliament.
Mr Speaker, allow me this moment to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, the national chairman of the NDC, Honorable Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the general secretary of the NDC, the Honourable Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, and the entire Functional Executives of the National Democratic Congress.”
Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency
Taking the mantle of Minority Leader on January 23, 2023, Dr. Forson recalled the arduous yet fulfilling journey of navigating parliamentary leadership during a critical period.
Under his leadership, the NDC caucus demonstrated resilience and unity, delivering robust alternative policies and holding the government accountable.
These efforts, he touted culminated in the party securing an additional 50 parliamentary seats in the 2024 elections, shifting the NDC from a minority of 137 to a commanding majority of 187 seats.
Dr. Forson celebrated the collective achievements of the caucus, particularly their role in championing groundbreaking legislation and shaping national discourse. “Together with my NDC colleagues, we provided constructive alternative government policies and safeguarded millions of Ghana Cedis in public funds,” he noted.
He attributed the success of the NDC’s parliamentary caucus to unity and dedication, underscoring their shared commitment to the values of transparency, public service, and a brighter future for Ghana.
Acknowledgement of Support and Lessons in Leadership
Dr. Forson’s farewell was marked by humility and reflection. He acknowledged the support of his deputy leaders, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, and Hon. Comfort Doyo Cudjoe.
He also eulogized the guidance of Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament saying “Your fatherly guidance has been instrumental in my journey”, expressing gratitude for the Speaker’s mentorship.
In a candid moment, Dr Forson sought forgiveness from those whose toes he may have inadvertently stepped on during his tenure.
Dr. Forson emphasized that leadership is not about perfection but sincerity of purpose. He urged members of Parliament to unite in the shared goal of advancing Ghana’s development agenda. “Our actions must always be guided by good faith and the overarching interest of our dear country,” he said.
Transition and a New Chapter
As he transitioned from Majority Leader to Minister of Finance, Dr. Forson reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Ghana. He pledged to work tirelessly to address the nation’s financial challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across political divides.
He further pledged to prioritize the concerns of Parliament in his capacity as Minister of Finance and to ensure the aspirations of Ghanaians remain central to the government’s policy direction.
Dr. Forson also took a moment to commend his successor, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central, along with the newly appointed leadership team. He expressed confidence in their ability to steer the affairs of the house with wisdom and grace.
Dr. Forson’s farewell was not just a reflection on his tenure but also a call to action. He urged the house to remain steadfast in its commitment to serving the people of Ghana, reminding members of the responsibility entrusted to them by their constituents.
In his closing remarks, Dr Forson expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Ajumako Enyan Essiam for their unwavering support throughout his parliamentary career.
He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of parliamentary staff and his “mutual respect” for Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, despite their political differences.
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