Policy Analyst Steve Manteaw has slammed critics for comparing the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, with the Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central regarding the finance ministry position.

In his view, Ato Forson possesses the expertise and experience from his tenure as Deputy Minister of Finance, making him the better candidate, over his colleague Adongo, to lead the affairs of the finance ministry.

He further argued in a Facebook post on Saturday, February 8, 2025, that his role as Minority Leader, which he executed exceptionally when the National Democratic Congress party was in opposition, solidified and demonstrated his capabilities in managing the financial sector.

Steve Manteaw has therefore opposed individuals making unhealthy comparisons between the two, urging them to cease such actions.

“Those comparing Adongo with Ato Forson should stop it. When the NDC needed a finance expert to lead the then minority in parliament, it was Ato Forson the party settled for, and he discharged his duties creditably.
“He has the experience, especially having been Deputy Minister of Finance in charge of revenue in the past NDC administration. He has what it takes to hit the ground running,” his post read.

Manteaw further emphasised that the finance ministry is crucial to the country’s economic recovery, stressing the need for someone who is well-versed and reputable, with proven experience, to take control—rather than engaging in trial and error.

He questioned the motive behind individuals campaigning for Isaac Adongo to be appointed Minister of Finance over Ato Forson, arguing that Adongo’s reputation for being ‘loud’ is not a valid indicator of his capabilities.

He, however, suggested that the combination of Ato Forson and Adongo could be a formidable force if paired together at the ministry.

“This is not the time for "ma try ma kwe". If one contends that Adongo and Ato Forson will make a good pair, I will understand, but Adongo cannot be better than Ato Forson, just because he's loud,” he added.

His comments follow calls from some individuals expressing concerns over the non-appointment of notable figures from the NDC, including Isaac Adongo, despite their significant contributions to the party.

Constituents of Bolgatanga Central recently voiced their frustrations over the ‘snub’ of their lawmaker but have since been urged by him to remain calm.



MAG/EK

In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below: