Abena Osei-Asare, Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, firmly refuted claims that the current government has deviated from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program.

During the mid-year budget debate in parliament, Osei-Asare emphasized the government's strict adherence to the IMF program, contrasting it with the previous administration's actions.

"I want to clarify that we did not stray from the IMF program prior to 2020," Osei-Asare affirmed.

She highlighted the government's successful management of the program, mentioning the recent receipt of a third tranche of $306 million, bringing the total disbursement to $1.56 billion.

Osei-Asare elaborated on the government's achievements, mentioning a positive review in April and the approval of the third tranche on June 28.

"We anticipate another successful review in September and October. The opposition may not understand, but I am basing my statements on data," she stated.

In a direct criticism of the opposition, Osei-Asare pointed out the derailment of the IMF program under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2016.

"We have not strayed from the IMF program, unlike our friends who caused significant harm to the nation in 2016," she remarked.

Osei-Asare emphasized the government's commitment to meeting the approved limits and targets outlined in the IMF program.

"We are dedicated to agreeing with and adhering to the targets we have set for ourselves under the IMF program," she concluded.

The mid-year budget debate continues as parliament assesses the government's financial progress and future plans.



NAY/OGB