Ato Forson warns SSNIT Board against selling assets to politicians

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has delivered a strong message to the newly appointed Board of Trustees of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), urging them to resist any temptation to sell state assets to politically connected individuals.

During the swearing-in ceremony held in Accra, Dr. Forson warned the board to prioritize the public interest in all investment choices and to avoid repeating previous errors that have raised alarms regarding the management of pension funds.

"Please refrain from selling state assets to politicians," the Minister stated firmly. "The President will not tolerate it, and as your sector Minister, I will be the first to stand against it."

His remarks come at a time when there is increased scrutiny over SSNIT’s investment strategies, including efforts to sell off shares in significant national assets. The Finance Minister emphasized that such decisions must be strictly based on value for money, transparency, and the long-term welfare of pension contributors.

Dr. Forson reminded the board that SSNIT is a national entity that every Ghanaian worker will rely on during retirement, and thus its leadership must be accountable to the public.

"The citizens of Ghana have placed their pension investments in your hands. Remember that you are investing our future, our funds, and our very livelihoods," he stated.

He also encouraged the board to broaden its investment portfolio, pointing out that SSNIT was "too focused on real estate" and needed to consider other profitable sectors.

The new Board of Trustees, led by Nana Ansah Sasraku III, committed to managing the Fund’s resources with integrity and foresight.