The Finance Minister Dr. Amin Adam has failed to show up in Parliament to present the 2025 mini budget, leaving the Speaker Alban Bagbin to adjourn the session to January 2, 2025.
The absence of the minister has raised concerns, with many questioning the preparedness of the outgoing government as it prepares to hand over to the incoming administration of the National Democratic Congress.
Speaking to the press after proceedings was adjourned, the Minority Leader, Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, voiced his disappointment and frustration. He emphasized that it was the outgoing government’s responsibility to ensure a smooth transition, particularly with regard to the country’s fiscal plans for the early months of 2025.
“In the spirit of a good transition, it is expected that the outgoing president, acting pursuant to Article 180 of the Constitution, could have acted in good faith and brought before Parliament a proposal for expenditure to cater for the first quarter of the year 2025”, he said
He continued, “Sadly, President Akufo-Addo planned to leave the public service uncatered for in the first quarter of the year 2025.”
The Majority Leader’s comments highlight the crucial role the outgoing administration was expected to play in ensuring that the country’s budgetary needs were met for the first quarter of the year before the NDC government takes office on January 7, 2025.
Despite the setback, Hon. Ato Forson sought to reassure Ghanaians and stakeholders that the incoming NDC government would act swiftly to address the situation.
“However, let me give assurance to the people of Ghana and all stakeholders that the NDC government will take office on 7th January 2025, and we will act with dispatch to cater for expenditure for the first quarter of the year 2025.”
Source: Ghana/ Starrfm.com.gh/ 103.5FM/Amuzu Deborah
