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President John Dramani Mahama has submitted the first set of ministerial nominations to Parliament, selecting prominent figures with extensive expertise to tackle the country’s economic, energy, and legal challenges.
The nominations, announced on Thursday, include Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson as Minister for Finance, John Abdulai Jinapor as Minister for Energy, and Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
The appointments are seen as a strategic move to stabilise Ghana’s economy, revitalise its energy sector, and strengthen its legal framework amid growing concerns about fiscal pressures and energy deficits.
Finance expert to steer Ghana’s economy
Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, a five-term lawmaker and seasoned economist, has been nominated as Finance Minister. With a PhD in Finance from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and advanced degrees in Taxation and Economics from the University of Oxford, Forson brings vast experience in public finance, macroeconomics, and tax policy.
“Dr Forson’s expertise in fiscal policy and business management positions him as the ideal candidate to navigate the complexities of Ghana’s economic challenges,” the presidency stated in the announcement.
Energy reforms on the horizon
John Abdulai Jinapor, the nominee for Energy Minister, is expected to bring “dynamism and capability” to a sector in dire need of reform. Jinapor, who holds multiple advanced degrees in economics, finance, and energy management, has been tasked with transforming the energy sector, which has faced persistent power shortages.
“Hon Jinapor brings a wealth of hands-on experience, competence, and know-how to the energy portfolio,” the statement said, emphasising his qualifications in energy economics and development finance.
Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, a seasoned lawyer with three decades of experience, has been nominated as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Ayine, a former Deputy Attorney-General, is renowned for his academic contributions and legal practice. He holds a PhD in law from Stanford University and advanced legal qualifications from the University of Michigan and the University of Ghana.
The presidency described Ayine as “a senior lawyer with a distinguished career,” highlighting his previous role in Ghana’s justice sector and his ability to spearhead legal reforms.
The nominations, submitted in accordance with Article 78 of Ghana’s Constitution, underscore Mahama’s commitment to leveraging expertise to address the country’s pressing challenges.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, acting spokesperson to the president, said, “These nominees reflect the president’s vision to build a team capable of delivering on the administration’s priorities.”
Ghana faces mounting economic pressures, including debt management and energy crises, and Mahama’s government has prioritised stability and growth as key objectives in the coming years.
The appointments include:
1. Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson – Minister for Finance Designate
2. Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor – Minister for Energy Designate
3. Hon. Dominic Akuritinga Ayini – Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate
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