The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially unveiled its leadership for the Ninth Parliament, with Mr Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament (MP) for Bawku Central, as the Majority Leader.
The Deputy Majority Leader is Mr Kweku Ricketts-Hagan, NDC MP for Cape Coast South and Mr Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, NDC MP for South Dayi, is the Majority Chief Whip.
Madam Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, NDC MP for Ada, is the First Deputy Majority Whip, while Mr Richard Acheampong, NDC MP for Dormaa East, is the Second Deputy Majority Whip.
This marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s political landscape.
A statement signed by Mr Fiifi Fiavi Kwettey, the General Secretary of the Party and issued to Mr Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament said the appointments followed the NDC’s selection process, which involved consultations with the party’s Majority Caucus.
Mr Ayariga, a seasoned politician with extensive experience in governance, is expected to bring his expertise to bear in leading the NDC Caucus and Government business to ensure success in Ghana’s democratic process.
“…The party has requested that the necessary steps be taken to formalise these appointments, in line with established parliamentary procedures,” the statement said.
The NDC’s leadership appointments are seen as a strategic move to strengthen the party’s presence in Parliament and advance its legislative agenda.
As the Majority Leader, Ayariga will play a crucial role in coordinating with the NDC’s parliamentary business and ensuring the passage of key legislation.
In his acceptance statement, Mr Ayariga said: “I am honoured to have been chosen by my party to lead the NDC caucus in the 9th Parliament.”
“I assure the people of Ghana that we will rigorously pursue the agenda to reset Ghana, while striving for inclusivity, consensus building, and upholding the principles of probity and accountability.”
Meanwhile, an an emotional address to Parliament, outgoing Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, formally relinquished his position, marking the end of his tenure as leader of the NDC Caucus.
“Mr Speaker, today marks the official conclusion of my journey within the Leadership ranks of this august House,” he stated, reflecting on his two-year tenure as Minority and Majority Leader.
“… It has been a remarkable period during which I transitioned from Minority Leader to Majority Leader,” he said on the Floor of the House on Thursday.
Dr Forson expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, the Speaker, Mr Alban Bagbin and the NDC leadership for their support throughout his tenure.
“Mr Speaker, leading the NDC’s Parliamentary Caucus has been an honor of the highest order,” he said.
“…The unwavering support and collaboration of colleagues is a privilege I have never taken for granted,” Dr Forson Noted.
The outgoing Majority Leader also acknowledged the achievements of the NDC Caucus, including providing constructive alternatives to government policies, safeguarding public funds, and championing groundbreaking legislation.
“Mr Speaker, our unity of purpose is what delivered an overwhelming and decisive victory for the NDC in the 2024 elections,” he noted.
As Dr Forson transitions to his new role as Finance Minister, he welcomed the new leadership of the NDC Majority Caucus, led by Mr Mahama Ayariga as Majority Leader.
“… Mr Speaker, I extend my best wishes to the incoming Leader of the House, the Honourable Mahama Ayariga, and his team,” Dr Forson said. “May they be guided by wisdom and grace as they steer the affairs of this House and oversee the successful conduct of government business,” he added.
