Proud to have led a minority that saved public funds – Ato Forson

Former Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has recounted the achievements of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus during his tenure, emphasising their pivotal role in influencing national policies and safeguarding public resources.

Dr. Ato Forson, who has now assumed the position of finance minister, handed over the leadership baton to Mahama Ayariga, the member of Parliament for Bawku Central. Reflecting on his two years as minority leader, he expressed pride in the caucus’s ability to provide critical alternatives to government policies and advance legislative reforms.

Speaking in Parliament on January 23, Dr. Forson said:

“Two years ago, I was entrusted with the responsibility of the minority leader, and within this short period, we have collectively achieved remarkable milestones, together with my NDC colleagues. We provided constructive alternatives to the government’s policies. We safeguarded millions of cedis in public funds. We championed groundbreaking legislation, including the Private Members’ Bill. These efforts shaped national policies and efforts.”

Dr. Forson highlighted the caucus’s efforts in advancing the Private Members’ Bill, a landmark achievement in Ghana’s legislative history.

The bill has enabled Parliament to play a more active role in proposing and shaping laws, reflecting the concerns of the citizenry.

The former minority leader also noted the caucus’s critical oversight role in ensuring accountability, which he said resulted in significant public savings. While he did not provide specific figures, Dr. Forson underscored the importance of such vigilance in promoting fiscal responsibility.

As he transitions into his new role as finance minister, Dr. Forson urged his former colleagues to prioritise the nation’s interest above all else.

“Our actions must always be guided by good faith and the overarching interest of our dear country,” he advised.

Mahama Ayariga, his successor, inherits the leadership of the minority at a critical time, with heightened expectations for effective opposition in Parliament. Dr. Forson’s tenure sets a precedent for a proactive and solution-orientated approach to parliamentary leadership.

His move to the Finance Ministry marks a new chapter in his public service career, with stakeholders eager to see how his legislative experience will influence his management of Ghana’s economy.