Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has given a stern warning to the newly established Board of Trustees of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), advising them to avoid selling government-owned assets to individuals with political ties.
He stated that President John Mahama detests such dealings and emphasised that, as sector Minister, he would strongly resist any effort to transfer state assets to politicians.
Dr. Forson instructed the board to focus on careful asset management and diversification of SSNIT’s investment portfolio to guarantee the pension fund’s long-term financial viability.
He confirmed that the government is up to date on all SSNIT obligations and reiterated the Finance Ministry’s dedication to maintaining that record.
His comments follow the recent uproar regarding SSNIT’s plan to sell a 60% interest in four hotels – La Palm Beach Hotel, Labadi Beach Hotel, Ridge Royal Hotel, and Elmina Beach Hotel to Rock City Hotel, which is owned by former Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.
The agreement was ultimately retracted in July 2024 due to strong opposition from Organised Labour, which warned of a nationwide strike.
Chairman of the newly constituted Board, Nana Ansah Sasraku III, acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead but expressed the Board’s readiness to deliver. “We are prepared, united, and committed to ensure that the trust resources are managed with integrity and foresight,” he said.
Members of the SSNIT Board of Trustees:
1. Nana Ansah Sasraku III – Chairperson
2. Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, MP – Member
3. Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney – Member
4. Ms. Ama Serwaa Bonsu – Member
5. Mr. Michael Bozumbil – Member
6. Dr. Emmanuel Adu-Sarkodee – Member
7. Mr. Abdul-Moomin Gbana – Member
8. Ms. Salamatu Braimah Mahama – Member
9. Mr. Thomas Tanko Musah – Member
10. Mr. Benjamin Arkaah Otoo – Member
11. Dr. Frank A. Odoom – Member
12. Ms. Gifty Adishetu Mahama Biyira – Member
NKONKONSA.com
