The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has launched a scathing attack on the 2025 budget presented by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, describing it as “Azaa” (deceptive) and “419” (a Ghanaian and Nigerian slang for scam).
According to the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Afenyo-Markin, the budget failed to address the expectations of the youth, particularly with regard to the government’s proposed 24-hour economy policy.
“We have witnessed what we can best be described as Azaa budget. Their own much-talked-about 24-hour economy, the president came here and said it is not ready, again the Finance Minister comes here and the 24-hour economy is not included in his budget statement,” Afenyo-Markin stated on the floor of Parliament.
Afenyo-Markin’s criticism comes on the heels of the Minority’s long-standing concerns about the government’s economic policies. In a previous statement, Afenyo-Markin accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of fostering disorder and obstructing consensus-building in Parliament.
“The youth of this country have been waiting for the 2025 budget, but the minister tells us that the policy will be brought later. This is a clear indication that the government is not serious about implementing the 24-hour economy policy,” Afenyo-Markin added.
In contrast, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga described the budget as “solid,” stating that it provides reforms to move Ghana’s growth from a “galamsey economy to real”.
“The budget provides solid reforms, moving our growth from galamsey economy to real. We are committed to creating a prosperous and inclusive society, where every Ghanaian has access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities,” Ayariga stated.
The 2025 budget has allocated significant funds to various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Some of the notable allocations include:
– GH¢13.85 billion for the Big Push Programme
– GH¢3.5 billion for the free secondary education program
– GH¢9.93 billion for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)
– GH¢2.81 billion for the Ghana Road Fund
– GH¢7.51 billion for the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF)
However, Afenyo-Markin’s criticism highlights the ongoing debate about the government’s economic policies and their impact on the country’s development.
His statement reflects the opposition’s concerns about the budget and its potential consequences for Ghana’s economy.
“The Minority will scrutinize the budget and ensure that the government is held accountable for its promises. We will not allow the government to deceive Ghanaians with empty promises and unfulfilled expectations,” Afenyo-Markin indicated.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
