“Ato Forson is the right person for the position” – Expert endorses Finance Minister nominee

Renowned economist and Finance Minister nominee, Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, has received strong endorsements following his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama.

Speaking on ABC Midday News, Prof. Lord Mensah of the University of Ghana Business School lauded Dr. Forson’s qualifications, experience, and prudence, describing him as an ideal candidate for the critical role of Finance Minister.

Highlighting Dr. Forson’s track record, the commentator stated, “Dr. Ato Forson is someone who is conservative and knows how to manage his lifestyle in the public space. He is not extravagant when it comes to the use of resources. His educational background is exemplary, and he has gathered significant experience in the finance sector. I can confidently say he is the right person for the position.”

The endorsement also referenced Dr. Forson’s proactive approach during previous economic challenges, saying, “When the economy was heading for trouble, he was the first to hold a forum and accurately forecast the direction of the economy. The numbers eventually reflected what he had projected.”

Presidential Nominations

Dr. Forson’s nomination comes as part of President Mahama’s announcement of the first batch of ministerial appointees submitted to the Speaker of Parliament in line with Article 78 of the 1992 Constitution.

Other nominees include:

• Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor – Minister for Energy Designate
• Hon. Dominic Akuritinga Ayini – Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate

About Dr. Ato Forson

Dr. Forson, a respected economist, chartered accountant, and tax practitioner, brings over 20 years of expertise spanning public and private sectors.

As a long-serving Member of Parliament for the Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency since 2009, he has held prominent positions such as Minority Leader and Ranking Member of the Finance Committee.

Educational Background

Dr. Forson’s academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Finance – Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
• MSc in Economics – KNUST
• MSc in Taxation – University of Oxford, UK
• BSc in Accounting – London South Bank University, UK
• Fellow, Chartered Institute of Taxation (Ghana)
• Member, Institute of Chartered Accountants (Ghana)

Government and Professional Roles

As Deputy Minister for Finance (2013–2017), Dr. Forson oversaw budget preparation, debt management, and tax policy, contributing to significant policy measures such as the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921).

He also played a key role in Ghana’s IMF Extended Credit Facility negotiations in 2015 and served on boards such as the Bank of Ghana and COCOBOD.

His expertise in macroeconomics, treasury management, and fiscal policy is expected to guide Ghana through its current economic challenges.

Parliament is however anticipated to review and approve these nominations in the coming weeks.