In a political landscape like Ghana’s often marred by division and self-interest, the appointment of Cassiel Ato Baah Forson as Ghana’s Minister of Finance is a resounding reminder that unwavering values of service, truth, and loyalty can lead to great success.
His journey, one of dedication and resilience, is both inspiring and instructive, particularly for the youth of Ghana.
The youth of Ghana, very disillusioned by the failure of former President Akufo-Addo government to address crucial national issues, particularly the creation of jobs for their teeming masses, will see in Ato Forson’s rise, hope, and the manifestation of the saying, “Perseverance conquers all.”
Under President John Dramani Mahama’s previous administration, Ato Forson served as Deputy Finance Minister under the venerable Seth Terkper.
Ato Forson’s appointment to this role came as a recommendation from Seth Terkper himself. The older and more seasoned politician recognized his exceptional service, discipline, and integrity.
When, subsequently, Terkper faced mounting public criticism with calls for his resignation, Ato Forson displayed remarkable loyalty.
He stood unwaveringly by his boss, never succumbing to the temptation to publicly criticize or distance himself from his leader. Proverbs 20:6 reminds us that, “Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?”
Ato Forson’s faithfulness was evident throughout his tenure, earning him the admiration of his colleagues and the nation.
Indeed, Ato’s name made good rounds in private discussions and conversations among the political elite on both sides of the political divide. His acumen in relevant roles could just not be glossed over.
In recent years, Ato Forson faced one of the most challenging moments of his career when the NPP government wanted to prosecute him over alleged financial loss to the state during the infamous ambulance saga.
Through the ordeal, seen by discerning observers as nothing less than political persecution, he remained steadfast, continuously speaking the truth and exposing the ill motives behind the allegations.
His eventual vindication reaffirmed the biblical promise in John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Ato Forson’s victory was not just a personal one—it was a triumph of truth over deception.
His vindication once again put a good measure of credibility and impartiality back in our justice delivery system who had for long been seen as brazenly doing the bidding of the then government and its leaders. Indeed, a good man is hard to be pinned down by any vicious system.
As Minority Leader in Parliament, Ato Forson continued to serve with distinction, using his platform to advocate for economic transparency, fairness, and the well-being of Ghanaians.
His impact during this period was immense, positioning him as a key figure in shaping the nation’s financial and political discourse.
Indeed, making his powerful submissions on the floor of Parliament with flair and excitement gave credence to the notion that hard and effective work need not be a chore nor grim-faced.
Today, his values of service, loyalty, and truth have been rewarded with the ultimate responsibility of leading Ghana’s Ministry of Finance under President Mahama’s administration.
This appointment is not just a recognition of his expertise but also a testament to the character he has exhibited throughout his journey.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 advises, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” Ato Forson has lived by this principle, serving with excellence and unwavering dedication. Hard work really pays and, indeed, breaks no bones.
For the youth of Ghana, Ato Forson’s journey is a powerful lesson. Success is not always about shortcuts or immediate rewards.
It is about the long journey, filled with moments of service, acts of loyalty, steadfast commitment to truth and integrity as well as the trials that accompany such public prominence.
As he takes on this new role, Ato’s story should inspire us all to hold dear these timeless values. As the Bible observes definitively in Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalts a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people.”
Congratulations, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson. May your leadership continue to uplift the nation, help bring about the reset Ghana desperately needs and serve as a beacon of hope for generations yet to come.