Godfred Bokpin is a professor of finance and economics at the University of Ghana
A professor of finance and economics at the University of Ghana, Professor Godfred Bokpin, has shared his thoughts on the performance of the Deputy Minister of Finance-nominee Thomas Nyarko Ampem.
Thomas Nyarko Ampem appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, February 24, 2025, for his vetting.
During his vetting, he identified the economic challenges that need to be addressed and proposed solutions to the challenges.
In a conversation on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Prof. Godfred analysed the performance of the deputy minister nominee, observing that the nominee could have demonstrated a deeper understanding of his portfolio.
He emphasised that the nominee will have the opportunity to learn under the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.
“Well, he may not have delivered consistently on our expectations, but I believe that he would learn from this and take advantage to be able to assert himself,” he stated.
Prof Bokpin noted that Thomas Nyarko Ampem did not provide detailed answers to the questions, but relied on general statements.
“There is nothing wrong, and it is not a case of you trying to outshine your minister or so, but within your own space, having listened to the minister during the vetting, you want to be able to fill in the gaps, you want to be able to tighten the loose ends.
“From that perspective, I felt that he could have done better. I was a bit disappointed” he added.
Pro Bokpin concluded that the president shouldn’t rely solely on reducing the number of ministers as a way to solve problems, but also focus on solving the systematic challenges facing the country.
“The over-concentration on cutting the number of ministers and ministries, and all of that, a time will come when that will not have economic value going forward,” he said.
MKA/EK