The ministerial vetting of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minister of Finance designate, by the Appointments Committee of Parliament appeared to involve some drama, with moments of heated clashes and arguments recorded.

From a clash between the Chairman of the committee, Bernard Ahiafor, and the Ranking member Alexander kwamina Afenyo-Markin, to one between the Chairman and Abena Osei Asare, who are all members of the committee, a moment of laughter erupted, briefly lightening the tense and serious atmosphere.

While addressing the committee, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson took the opportunity to reflect on his early days and the positive relationship he shares with Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament.

According to him, he is more experienced and holds seniority over Afenyo-Markin due to the delays he encountered on his path to becoming a parliamentarian.

In a heartwarming remark, Ato Forson mentioned his early days with Afenyo-Markin, noting how they both shared aspirations of becoming lawmakers.

“Myself and the Minority Leader have a history. We planned to enter this chamber together but unfortunately, in his first attempt, he couldn’t make it and I did. Mr. Chairman, he lost that primary and I won,” he remarked.

Ato Forson jovially pointed out his seniority over Afenyo-Markin, stating that he is a term ahead of the Minority Leader while highlighting that their friendship did not affect or influence their decision-making in carrying out their respective roles.

He admonished that his fellow colleagues consider working diligently in the best interest of the country and staying committed to its progress.

“Today, I am one term older than him and his senior. He is older than me by just four months, same year, and two constituencies apart. We used to do private sector business even before we all entered here, and we have known ourselves growing up.”

He continued, “Everyone knows the relationship between us but working with him didn’t stop me from doing my work and didn’t stop him from doing his work. To add to colleagues, we may have relationships but it shouldn't stop you from doing your work. We should work for God and our country and must be done with the best of intentions to help our country grow.”

Concluding his emotional remarks, Ato Forson playfully encouraged Afenyo-Markin to follow his example and learn from his experience, having once served as a Minority Leader.

“We did just that, had our moments, fought and reunited ourselves. Today, the tables have turned and he is now the Minority Leader. Kwamina, learn from me and be good,” he said, eliciting laughter from the room.

‘I am your senior... Learn from me and be good!’ – Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson tells Alexander Afenyo-Markin during a light moment at his vetting.

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— GhanaWeb (@TheGhanaWeb) January 13, 2025