On Monday, January 13, 2025, Parliament will begin the vetting process for the initial group of ministerial nominees put forward by President John Dramani Mahama.
This process, mandated by the constitution, will be managed by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, which was established on January 9, 2025.
The vetting will kick off with Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the representative for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam and the current Majority Leader, who has been nominated as Minister-designate for Finance.
Dr. Forson is set to present his case to the committee amid Ghana’s pressing economic issues, including soaring inflation, escalating public debt, and increasing demands for sustainable economic reforms. If confirmed, he is expected to lead initiatives to stabilize the economy and enforce crucial reforms to restore fiscal discipline.
Following Dr. Forson, the committee will consider John Abdulai Jinapor, the nominee for Minister-designate for Energy. Jinapor, an experienced politician and former Deputy Minister of Energy, brings significant expertise to this vital role.
In light of Ghana’s ongoing energy challenges, such as unreliable power supplies and growing energy sector debts, his vetting is expected to clarify his plans for revitalizing the sector. Jinapor is poised to outline strategies for enhancing energy supply stability, promoting renewable energy projects, and addressing the financial crises in the energy industry.
The final nominee slated for vetting in this round is Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, designated Attorney-General and Minister of Justice. The Bolgatanga East lawmaker, a distinguished legal scholar and practitioner, previously served as Deputy Attorney-General and is recognized for his profound understanding of constitutional law.
If approved, Dr. Ayine will take on the critical role of the government’s chief legal advisor, with responsibilities that include leading legal reforms, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring fair access to justice throughout the country.
The vetting process is expected to provide the public with critical insights into the nominees’ vision and plans for their respective ministries. With Ghana at a crossroads in several key sectors, the outcomes of today’s vetting sessions will play a significant role in shaping the country’s immediate future.