Economist and finance professor, Professor Godfred Bokpin, has expressed displeasure at the appointment of former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Ata, as Senior Advisor to the President and Special Envoy for International Finance and Private Investment.
He said he did not believe Ofori-Atta deserved to be reappointed to a higher position, given his performance prior to his recent appointment.
talk JoyFM’s top stories On February 26, Professor Bokpin said that when it was first announced that the former finance minister would become the head of the Ministry of Finance, he enthusiastically supported him as he was one of the most qualified people. However, he claimed that expectations have not been lived up to in recent years, especially considering his legacy.
“I respect His Royal Highness Ken Ofori-Atta. When he was appointed, I saw his achievements in the private sector and supported his appointment, I couldn’t have done it better. But overall, what we’re seeing now is not a compelling reason to give him new responsibilities in government,” he said.
Professor Bokpin explained that leaders are typically visionary individuals who can anticipate problems and adopt strategic solutions. But at a time when the finance minister was expected to display these qualities, he let the country down.
This is leading to economic difficulties for the country, he added.
“Ghana and Kenya came out of COVID-19 with similar economic fundamentals, similar challenges. This is because they were a little more proactive in lobbying the IMF for fund support programs immediately after the
“But Ghana, I think that’s where His Royal Highness Ken Ofori-Atta has let Ghanaians down. Some in the leadership will recognize the signs and magnitude before the average Ghanaian does. That’s because it is.
“And the failure of the then Minister of Finance and the entire government to proactively engage the IMF has actually caused tremendous hardship for the people of Ghana. I said so, I will not run away from it.” he added. .
On February 15, President Akufo-Addo appointed the former Minister of Finance as Senior Advisor to the President and Special Envoy for International Finance and Private Investment. Many expressed concerns as to why he should be promoted to a new position.
Individuals and the grassroots organization Infantry and Advocacy Alliance have since called for the appointment to be revoked.
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