It been a long time coming, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been sacked by President Akufo-Addo.
This has been the wish of many, including over 80 members of Parliament on the NPP side of the aisle.
His critics have pointed to his poor management of the economy which has landed the country into a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with all the difficult implications of the conditionalities that come with it.
The much-anticipated announcement was made by the Director of Communication at the Presidency, Mr Eugene Arhin in a release dated February 14, 2024.
One could say that being Valentine’s Day today, this is a love gesture from a senior cousin to a younger one. That’s because Mr Ofori-Atta’s liver ailment which made him bloated may be taking a toll on him as well as his duties as the Finance Minister.
Under the watch of Ken Ofori-Atta, the cedi depreciated, and inflation rate shot up so high. The general economic situation has become unbearable for the majority of Ghanaians.
Although he cites World Bank and IMF reports to say that the ‘economy has turned the corner’, Mr Ofori-Atta knows deep down his heart that times are hard for Ghanaians.
His sack by President Akufo-Addo, who had hitherto defended Ofori-Atta’s ‘excellent handling of the economy’, has varied meanings.
First is the possibility of paving the way for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to lead the charge in reviving the economy between now and December 7, to gain favour with the electorates.
Another, as alluded to above, is the possibility of Ofori-Atta’s health condition having become so critical that he needs time to take care of himself.
Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that many will heave a huge sigh of relief.
President Akufo-Addo himself, has undoubtedly gained some points for his image.
See full list of reshuffled ministers below:
