Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem has hit back at the Minority in Parliament, dismissing their criticisms of Ghana’s economic trajectory as unsubstantiated and politically opportunistic.
Delivering the closing remarks during the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review debate, the Asuogyaman MP asserted that the country’s ongoing economic rebound is a result of deliberate, disciplined, and data-driven policy choices—not media spin or partisan theatrics.
“Mr. Speaker, let our friends on the other side take note. Recovery is not by press conferences. It is not found in recycled rhetoric or speculative pessimism. It is earned, through policy, perseverance and performance.”
Hon. Nyarko Ampem praised the Finance Minister’s restraint, pointing out that the entire budget presentation made no mention of external factors like the Russia-Ukraine war or global inflation to justify Ghana’s economic challenges.
“Unlike his immediate predecessors, the Minister for Finance did not blame the performance of the economy on any external factor in the entire one and half hours of presentation. In fact, the Russia-Ukraine war is still ongoing,” he noted.
According to the Deputy Minister, the government has delivered 205 straight days of macroeconomic stability, evidenced by falling inflation, a strengthening cedi, and renewed fiscal discipline.
Nyarko Ampem did not mince words about the legacy of the previous administration, accusing them of reckless economic management that led to spiraling debt, loss of investor confidence, and harsh living conditions for Ghanaians.
In a veiled jab at former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, he recalled the infamous “driver’s mate” analogy:
“We all recall how a certain ‘driver’s mate’ took control of the economy and recklessly drove it into a ditch.”
Contrasting current leadership with the past, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the Mahama-led administration is anchoring recovery on clear, measurable policies aimed at sustainable progress—not electoral catchphrases.
“These gains are not episodic.They are the result of carefully crafted and boldly implemented economic policies anchored on vision, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility.”
“This marks the end of an era of empty political sloganeering. We remain unwavering in our commitment to deliver stable prices and decent jobs for our fellow countrymen and women.”
He concluded with optimism, declaring that Ghana’s economic future is back on track:
“Ghana is rising again. The foundation is being rebuilt, the confidence is returning, and the momentum of our recovery is becoming stronger.”
