Ghana’s Finance Minister Appointed Returning Officer for AfDB Presidential Elections

Ghana’s Minister for Finance, *Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has been officially appointed as the **Returning Officer* for the *African Development Bank (AfDB) presidential elections, currently taking place during the Bank’s **2025 Annual Meetings* in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The appointment places Dr. Forson at the center of one of the most significant events on the continent’s development finance calendar. As Returning Officer, he will oversee the conduct of the election, ensuring that the process is transparent, fair, and in line with the governance protocols of the AfDB.

The AfDB Annual Meetings, which run from *May 26 to 30, 2025*, have drawn over 3,000 delegates from the Bank’s 81 member countries, including African heads of state, ministers of finance and economy, central bank governors, and leaders from international development institutions.

Dr. Forson’s selection is a nod to his extensive experience in public financial management, economic policy, and parliamentary leadership. Prior to becoming Minister for Finance, he served as the Ranking Member of Ghana’s Finance Committee in Parliament and has long been involved in shaping fiscal policy and promoting economic reforms.

The AfDB presidential election is a critical process that determines who leads the multilateral institution for the next term. The president of the Bank plays a key role in driving development strategies, financing major infrastructure and social projects, and shaping Africa’s integration into the global economy.

This year’s election comes at a pivotal time, as African economies continue to recover from global economic shocks and work toward inclusive, sustainable growth. The outcome is expected to influence the Bank’s strategic direction over the next five years.

Dr. Ato Forson's appointment also reflects Ghana's rising stature in African and international financial circles. His leadership in the electoral process is seen as a testament to Ghana's credibility in governance and its commitment to continental cooperation.

The results of the AfDB presidential election are expected to be announced before the close of the Annual Meetings.

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