Ato Forson appointed Returning Officer for AfDB presidential elections

Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has been appointed as the Returning Officer for the presidential elections of the African Development Bank (AfDB), being held today, Thursday, May 29, 2025, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The elections will determine the next President of the AfDB as the tenure of the current President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, comes to an end.

Five distinguished candidates are vying for the top job: Dr. Hott Amadou from Senegal, Dr. Maimbo Samuel Munzele from Zambia, Dr. Tah Sidi Ould from Mauritania, Dr. Tolli Abas Mahamat from Chad, and Ms. Tshabalala Bajabulile Swazi from South Africa.

Announcing his appointment via Facebook, Dr. Forson expressed gratitude for the role and highlighted the importance of upholding transparency and credibility throughout the process.

Dr.Forson said, “I am honoured to have been appointed as the Returning Officer for the presidential elections of the African Development Bank (AfDB), taking place today. The elections will determine the next President of the AfDB Group, following the conclusion of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s tenure. Five candidates from across Africa are contesting for this important role.”

“As Returning Officer, my duty is to ensure a transparent, credible, and orderly election process in accordance with the Bank’s electoral rules. I will be working closely with the Secretary General, the General Counsel, and a technical team to safeguard the integrity of the vote.”