Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has issued a stern warning to the newly inaugurated Board of Trustees of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), urging them to steer clear of politically motivated asset sales and to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability.
At a swearing-in ceremony held in Accra, Dr. Forson emphasized the vital importance of SSNIT in safeguarding the retirement incomes of Ghanaian workers, stating, “This is an institution we will all need one day when we retire.”
With over a million contributors relying on the Trust for long-term financial security, the Minister underscored that the decisions of the new Board carry profound national implications.
“The people of Ghana have entrusted their future into your hands. Your actions must reflect the weight of that responsibility,” Dr. Forson charged.
The Finance Minister’s remarks come at a time of intensified public scrutiny over SSNIT’s investment strategies and asset disposals. He did not mince words in addressing concerns over previous transactions, calling for a departure from opaque or politically influenced decision-making.
“Please don’t sell state assets to politicians. The President will not accept it, and as your sector Minister, I will be the first to oppose it,” he cautioned emphatically.
A Call for Strategic Stewardship
The new Board, chaired by Nana Ansah Sasraku III, assumes office amid growing demand for a more prudent, long-term approach to managing Ghana’s largest pension fund. The Finance Minister called for a strategic shift that aligns investment decisions with the fund’s core mission, preserving and growing contributors’ savings to ensure retirement security.
He further assured the Board that government arrears to SSNIT have been fully cleared, and promised enhanced collaboration with the Ministry of Finance to ensure sustained fiscal support.
“Government is committed to working closely with SSNIT to secure its financial sustainability,” Dr. Forson stated.
Responding to the charge, Nana Ansah Sasraku III acknowledged the weight of public expectation and affirmed the Board’s readiness to act decisively and responsibly.
“We are prepared, united, and committed to ensure that the Trust’s resources are managed with integrity and foresight,” he said, adding that the new leadership intends to reinforce confidence through transparent and effective governance.
The newly sworn-in Board includes a blend of experienced professionals, political representatives, and civil society advocates.
