Accra, Ghana – On March 8, 2025, Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana’s Finance Minister and a prominent figure in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), made a heartfelt and impactful visit to Makola Market, one of the nation’s most vibrant commercial hubs. The visit, documented in a post on X (formerly Twitter) with the handle
@Cassielforson
, showcased Forson’s commitment to connecting with ordinary Ghanaians as part of the NDC’s ambitious "ResettingGhana" campaign tied to Budget 2025.The post, which included a vivid image of the bustling Makola Market—filled with colorful umbrellas, bustling traders, and shoppers—highlighted Forson’s gratitude toward the market’s traders. “I am deeply grateful to you all our compatriots at Makola who welcomed me with open hearts, sharing your thoughts, fears, challenges, and ideas,” Forson wrote. He assured the traders that their voices would remain at the forefront of government priorities, emphasizing, “As a government, we will do all we can to truly represent you. This is just the beginning of many meaningful engagements—we are here to serve you!” The post was accompanied by hashtags such as #ResettingGhana, #Budget2025, and #TogetherWeGrow, signaling the NDC’s broader vision for economic transformation.
Makola Market, located in the heart of Accra, has been a cornerstone of Ghana’s trade and culture since its establishment in 1924. As the nation’s primary wholesale and retail marketplace, it is an epicenter of economic activity, dominated by women traders selling everything from fresh produce and imported goods to clothing and household items. The market’s significance extends beyond commerce, serving as a social and cultural institution that reflects the vibrancy of Ghana’s informal economy. However, it has also faced challenges, including economic pressures and past government interventions, such as its controversial demolition in 1979 under the Rawlings administration, which aimed to address perceived economic issues but disrupted livelihoods.
Forson’s visit comes at a critical juncture as the NDC, under his leadership in the Finance Ministry, pushes forward with its "ResettingGhana" agenda. This initiative responds to criticisms from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has questioned the NDC’s vision of “resetting” Ghana to a “factory setting”—a metaphor suggesting a return to foundational economic and governance reforms. The NDC, however, frames this as a necessary step to address inequality, stimulate job creation, and bolster public-sector-led economic recovery, as outlined in their policy vision for the 2024 elections and beyond.
The response on X to Forson’s post was overwhelmingly positive, with users praising his accessibility and leadership. Comments ranged from “Leader 
” and “This is beautiful” to remarks on his lack of heavy security, which one user noted as a sign of genuine connection with the people. However, some responses, like “Hunger 
,” hinted at the ongoing economic challenges facing Ghanaians, underscoring the urgency of the NDC’s reform agenda.
As a seasoned politician, fiscal economist, and chartered accountant, Forson brings over two decades of experience in both public and private sectors to his role. His previous tenure as Deputy Minister of Finance under former President John Mahama equipped him with deep expertise in managing Ghana’s fiscal policies, negotiating financial agreements, and driving economic initiatives. His engagement at Makola Market aligns with his advocacy for good governance, transparency, and accountability—principles that have defined his career and the NDC’s platform.
The "ResettingGhana" campaign, tied to Budget 2025, promises structural reforms and public investment to reset the economy, contrasting with the NPP’s focus on private-sector-driven growth and fiscal discipline under Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Forson’s visit to Makola Market symbolizes the NDC’s commitment to grassroots engagement, particularly with the informal sector, which plays a pivotal role in Ghana’s economy.
As Ghana navigates a critical period of economic recovery and transformation, Forson’s outreach at Makola Market signals the start of a broader dialogue with citizens. Whether this engagement will translate into tangible policy outcomes remains to be seen, but for now, it has struck a chord with Ghanaians eager for leadership that listens and acts. With #ResettingGhana and #Budget2025 gaining traction, the NDC’s vision for a revitalized Ghana continues to take shape—one market visit at a time.
I am deeply grateful to you all our compatriots at Makola who welcomed me with open hearts, sharing your thoughts, fears, challenges, and ideas.
— Cassiel Ato Forson(PhD) (@Cassielforson) March 8, 2025
I assure you that I will always remain mindful of your needs, and as a government, we will do all we can to truly represent you.… pic.twitter.com/T2JijuD1By
