Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has sharply criticized the 2025 budget presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, calling it an “Azaa” (deceptive) budget.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament after the budget announcement on March 11, Afenyo-Markin expressed disappointment that the much-anticipated 24-hour economy policy, a cornerstone of the government’s economic agenda, was not included in the fiscal plan.

The 24-hour economy, touted by President Nana Akufo-Addo as a critical strategy to boost economic activity, was expected to be featured prominently in the budget. However, Afenyo-Markin pointed out that the policy was notably absent from Forson’s address, with the Finance Minister instead stating that the proposal would be brought to Parliament at a later date.

“This is what we can best describe as an ‘Azaa’ budget,” Afenyo-Markin said, referencing the term for deception. “The youth of this country have been eagerly awaiting the 2025 budget, but instead of concrete measures, the Finance Minister tells us the 24-hour economy policy will be presented later.”

In contrast, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga praised the budget, describing it as a strong step forward. “The budget provides solid reforms, shifting our growth from a ‘galamsey’ economy to a real one,” he said, referring to the government’s efforts to move away from illegal mining and promote more sustainable economic development.

During his budget presentation, Dr. Forson outlined several key initiatives, including the creation of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), aimed at boosting foreign exchange inflows and gold reserves. GOLDBOD will regulate and oversee activities related to the gold industry, including purchasing, refining, and exporting.

In addition, the Finance Minister emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the Ghanaian cedi and address macroeconomic challenges through an economic recovery program. This includes building economic buffers through external reserves to help cushion the cedi.

The much-discussed 24-hour economy policy, which seeks to boost productivity by encouraging businesses to operate round-the-clock, was highlighted as a key long-term growth strategy. Dr. Forson assured Parliament that the policy would be formally presented for approval in the coming months, further underlining its importance to the government’s economic agenda.

Source:TheDotNews