NDC calls for calm after unanimous approval of Ofori-Atta as Finance Minister

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) leadership has called on members of the party to remain calm following the approval by consensus of Ken Ofori-Atta as Finance Minister.

A statement signed by General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, said the decision to approve the Finance Minister-Designate by consensus was with the view to adopt a common position based on the exigencies of the situation.

“Following what transpired previously in respect of vetting and approval of some Ministers-designate the Minority leadership, the Party leadership, as well as the Council of Elders, have engaged in extensive consultations to approve the candidate by consensus,” said the chief scribe of the major opposition party in Ghana.

“It is hereby announced to the rank and file of the party and to the notice of all Comrades, that a decision by the Appointments Committee to recommend Ken Ofori Atta for the approval by consensus will be made public in Parliament,” the statement added.

“I, therefore, urge all members to remain circumspect when the need for reaction arises. The NDC Parliamentary Caucus and FEC will be fully briefed accordingly” said the statement.

Background

Mr. Ofori-Atta was approved on consensus following recommendations by the Appointments Committee.

He was vetted by the Committee last Thursday and Friday.

Mr. Ofori-Atta was the last substantive minister of President Akufo-Addo to be approved by Parliament.

He had his vetting postponed several times after he suffered post-COVID-19 health complications.

Due to Mr. Ofori-Atta’s situation, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu presented the 2021 budget statement on his behalf.

In his first public comment after seeking medical attention in the United States, Mr. Ofori-Atta recounted the “very trying period,” adding that “it has been a miracle to be here”.

“God has been merciful, and I am particularly grateful for the prayer support,” he said.

He was grateful to his family and support from Ghanaians, as he sang praises unto God.

He alluded to the Bible and how God saved Peter from prison, comparing it to how he has been miraculously saved.

“The doctors here (US) have been fantastic and dedicated but even they, acknowledge that there must be someone upstairs who is watching over you because the numbers have been so critical”.

Mr. Ofori-Atta, however, returned to Ghana on Monday, March 22, 2021.

Presenting the recommendations of the committee, the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annor Dompreh, highlighted a number of questions the nominee was asked.

“The nominee answered a number of questions ranging from the justification for the resubmission of the Agyapa transaction to Parliament, public sector wages negotiations, the rationale for the proposed tax hikes by the government, and the management and use of the petroleum revenue.”

”The committee by consensus recommends to the house to approve the nomination of Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta for appointment as Minister responsible for Finance,” he added.