There is no hope in the 2025 budget statement - Afenyo-Markin Slams 2025 Budget
The Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has strongly criticized the 2025 Budget Statement presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, describing it as an "Azaa budget"—a term suggesting deception and lack of substance. According to Afenyo-Markin, the budget fails to inspire hope and does not introduce any significant measures to address Ghana’s economic challenges. He particularly expressed disappointment over the exclusion of the much-anticipated 24-hour economy policy, which had been a key campaign promise of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its flagbearer, John Mahama. The Minority Leader argued that Ghanaians, especially the youth, had been expecting clear strategies for job creation and economic transformation, but the budget failed to deliver on these expectations.
Beyond the absence of the 24-hour economy policy, Afenyo-Markin also raised concerns about the government’s economic projections. He pointed out that while the previous administration left Ghana with four months' worth of import cover, the 2025 budget forecasts a decline to three months, raising concerns about economic stability. Additionally, he accused the government of breaching procurement laws, specifically in the road sector. Citing an ongoing project at Chain Homes, where a new roundabout is reportedly under construction without proper approvals, he questioned the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public spending. These concerns, he noted, further undermine confidence in the budget’s ability to steer the country towards economic recovery.
In his final remarks, Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the 2025 budget offers no new direction for Ghana’s development, merely repackaging existing social intervention programs without meaningful innovation. He criticized the government for failing to outline concrete steps toward addressing the nation’s economic woes, instead presenting what he believes is a document filled with empty promises. According to him, Ghanaians were expecting policies that would bring real relief and prosperity, but the budget lacks the vision and bold initiatives required to drive the country forward. As the debate over the budget continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will make adjustments to address these concerns or maintain its current course.
