The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has issued a strong warning to the government, stating that it will be held accountable for any unfulfilled commitments between January 1 and 7, 2025.
His remarks were in response to the Minister of Finance’s failure to present a mini-budget for the first quarter of 2025.
Speaking to the press in Parliament after the House adjourned until January 2, Dr Ato Forson expressed serious concerns about the government’s lack of preparation to ensure the smooth operation of the economy at the start of the new year.
He emphasised that the absence of a mini-budget could disrupt essential services and obligations, placing unnecessary burdens on the Ghanaian people.
“The Vice President can present the expenditure in advance of appropriation to this House after 7 January 2025, following his swearing-in, and this House will be properly constituted to expedite its approval.
"While we are very disappointed, we want to caution the outgoing Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government that they will be responsible for all unmet commitments and obligations of the state from 1 January onwards,” he stated.
Describing the situation as a failure of governance, Dr. Ato Forson urged the government to take immediate action to prevent undue hardships.
He reiterated his side of the House's commitment to holding the government accountable, stressing that transparency and proactive planning are vital to maintaining public confidence.
Meanwhile, watch as the MP for Ada engages in a brief argument with the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament over the payment of $11m for the construction of the Pwalugu Dam, below:
AE