Bawku Central member of Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has officially been appointed as the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in the 9th Parliament, succeeding Cassiel Ato Forson, who now serves as Minister of Finance.
The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) announced Mr. Ayariga’s appointment on Thursday, January 23, 2025. The MP for Cape Coast South, Kweku George Ricketts-Hagan, has been named Deputy Majority Leader, while Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, MP for South Dayi, assumes the role of Majority Chief Whip, replacing Governs Agbodza.
In other leadership changes, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada Constituency, has been appointed First Deputy Whip, and Richard Acheampong, MP for Bia East, is now Second Deputy Majority Whip.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ayariga expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the NDC caucus and emphasized the importance of unity, inclusivity, and accountability. “The road ahead for the Mahama administration will not be without challenges. However, I am confident that together, through constructive dialogue and mutual respect, we can overcome any obstacles and deliver on our collective vision,” he stated.
Mr. Ayariga assured Ghanaians that the NDC caucus, backed by the overwhelming mandate of President John Dramani Mahama and its 187 MPs, will work tirelessly to reset Ghana and deliver on their promises. He reiterated the commitment to national unity, democratic principles, and equitable development, adding that the majority caucus would strive to foster inclusivity and consensus-building despite their overwhelming numbers.
Reflecting on the leadership of previous Majority Leaders, including Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, Mr. Ayariga noted their contributions as guideposts for his tenure. He further emphasized that while the majority caucus holds significant influence, they will uphold the principles of probity and accountability in their governance.
With a career spanning two decades, Mr. Ayariga entered Parliament in 2005 and has held key positions, including Deputy Minister of State and Minister of State. Known for his early beginnings as a student leader and Assemblyman in the Bawku Municipality, he now takes on the role of leading the largest parliamentary majority in the history of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Expressing his humility and gratitude, Mr. Ayariga vowed to work steadfastly in service of the Ghanaian people, stating, “Their trust must inspire our actions and guide our decisions. It is for them that we will build a prosperous, united, and democratic Ghana.”
