Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Finance Minister-Designate, endured a marathon vetting session lasting 4 hours and 39 minutes. The event, broadcast live on ChannelOne TV, delved into pressing national issues, with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin dominating the session by asking a staggering 33 questions.
The vetting revolved around five primary areas: taxation, expenditure cuts, policy measures, Free SHS and school feeding programs, and Ghana’s ongoing engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Numbers at a Glance
- Total questions asked: 64
- Majority MPs: 15 questions
- Minority MPs: 49 questions
- Most questions by one MP: Alexander Afenyo-Markin – 33
- Session duration: 4 hours, 39 minutes
Key Issues Raised
IMF Agreement and Economic Policy
Dr. Forson faced scrutiny over Ghana’s current IMF program, specifically the timeline for economic recovery. Afenyo-Markin pressed him on how his policies would balance debt restructuring and the welfare of Ghanaians.
“Our people need solutions, not just macroeconomic jargon,” Afenyo-Markin remarked, demanding clarity on projected timelines for exiting the IMF program. 
Taxation and Revenue Mobilisation
Questions regarding taxation centered on the sustainability of current tax measures. Forson was asked about potential reforms to broaden the tax net without overburdening citizens. He assured the committee of prioritising efficiency in tax collection and introducing measures to address tax evasion.
Free SHS and School Feeding Programs
A major point of contention was funding for flagship social programs like Free SHS and school feeding. Forson pledged to preserve these initiatives but hinted at exploring cost-saving mechanisms.
“We cannot compromise access to education, but we must ensure efficiency in funding such programs,” he said.
Breakdown of Questions
The questions ranged from technical queries on policy to personal assurances:
- Personal Background: 4.68%
- Policy Assurances: 9.37%
- Comments and Amendments: 18.75%
- Manifesto Promises: 25%
- Current Issues and Statements: 20.3%
Key Exchanges
Afenyo-Markin’s Probing
Afenyo-Markin, known for his sharp questioning, raised concerns about past statements by Forson on fiscal policies. One exchange saw the Minority Leader asking, “Would you admit that your past opposition to certain tax policies contributed to today’s fiscal constraints?”
Forson diplomatically responded, “Criticism of policy is not opposition to progress. Constructive dialogue builds better policies.”
Majority MPs’ Focus
While Majority MPs raised fewer questions, they concentrated on manifesto promises and ongoing expenditure cuts. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah led these inquiries, pressing for specifics on reducing waste in public spending.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Forson highlighted his intent to balance austerity with growth, prioritising revenue generation over new taxes.
- He promised transparent management of IMF funds to safeguard Ghana’s economy.
- Social interventions like Free SHS would remain intact, albeit with improved efficiency.
Public Reactions
The vetting session has sparked widespread commentary, particularly on Afenyo-Markin’s intense line of questioning. Social media users praised the rigor of the session, with some dubbing it “the Afenyo-Markin show.”
Political analysts commended Dr. Forson’s composure, describing his responses as “measured and reassuring.”
Conclusion
As Parliament prepares to make its decision, the vetting of Dr. Ato Forson has reinforced his reputation as a seasoned policymaker. Whether his assurances translate into action remains to be seen, but his session underscored the high stakes of managing Ghana’s economic recovery.
Stay tuned for more updates on parliamentary proceedings and governance highlights.
