Former CEO of Dalex Finance, Kenneth Thompson, has expressed strong support for the appointment of Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson as Ghana’s Finance Minister.
In an interview, Thompson praised Forson for his youth, energy, and communication skills, stating that these qualities are crucial in navigating the country’s current economic challenges.
He highlighted Ghana’s debt situation and the country’s exclusion from international capital markets as significant issues.
He likened the country’s financial struggles to someone being forced to downgrade from a two-bedroom house to a one-bedroom apartment, emphasizing the importance of leadership in such difficult times.
In his view, the Finance Minister must be someone who not only understands fiscal policy but also has the ability to effectively communicate and manage public sentiment.
“Economy is about sentiment. It’s critical that you communicate,” he said.
He also emphasized the need for a leader who has a strong network of contacts, as this can be vital in times of financial crisis.
Thompson particularly praised Forson’s youthful energy, noting that at 46 years old, he has the vitality needed to tackle the demands of the role. “You need somebody with energy, somebody to run up and down.
For me, he ticks those boxes,” he stated, contrasting Forson’s energy with his own age and experience.
Thompson also stressed the importance of fiscal discipline, simplifying tax structures, and creating investment incentives that are accessible to all, not just foreign investors.
Supporting SMEs, he argued, is essential for the country’s development, with the private sector being the key driver of economic growth.
Thompson expressed confidence in Forson’s appointment, stating that the focus should be on doing the work rather than being obsessed with power. “If the leaders are good, we will all follow,” he concluded.
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed three key ministers:Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson as Minister for Finance ,Mr. John Abdulai Jinapor as Minister for Energy,Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice.
These appointments are scheduled for vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM.
The vetting will take place in Committee Rooms 1 and 2 of the Administration Block.
The Appointments Committee is responsible for reviewing and recommending the approval of ministerial nominees.
The outcome of this vetting process will determine the official appointments of these individuals to their respective positions.
Mahama’s Appointments: Hon. Ato Forson is young, can communicate and is fit to be Finance Minister.
– Kenneth Thompson, Former CEO – Dalex Finance #JoySMS pic.twitter.com/WSDtrGdYv9
— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) January 10, 2025
