Parliamentary proceedings were disrupted on Tuesday as the much-anticipated presentation of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation, a mini-budget for the first quarter of 2025, was stalled due to the absence of the Finance Minister and the Majority Leader. This development has raised significant concerns among the Minority in Parliament, who argue that the delay could have serious consequences for the nation’s financial stability during the transition period to a new administration.
The mini-budget, which is typically presented before the start of the fiscal year, ensures that the government has the necessary funds to operate for the first three months of the year. With a looming transition of power following the December elections, the absence of this expenditure plan has heightened tensions within Parliament and among government stakeholders.
Addressing the matter on the floor of Parliament, Minority Chief Whip Governs Agbodza expressed deep frustration, questioning why the presentation was being delayed without any official explanation. He emphasized that the document had already been submitted to Parliament and that there was no justifiable reason for the Finance Minister’s absence.
“We are here today, Mr Speaker, and yet again, the Finance Minister is nowhere to be found. The leader of the Majority side is absent too, and we are not being given any explanation. This raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to its responsibilities,” Agbodza said.
He continued, warning of potential constitutional breaches should the delay persist. “The document is in Parliament’s possession, and yet those responsible for laying it have chosen to stay away. This is a mystery, Mr Speaker, and one that could have severe implications for the workers and institutions dependent on government expenditure. If we fail to pass this document before the expiration of the Eighth Parliament, the blame will rest solely on President Akufo-Addo, Dr. Bawumia, and the Finance Minister.”
Agbodza further underscored the potential consequences of failing to present the mini-budget, pointing out that the constitution places clear responsibilities on public officials to ensure the smooth functioning of government. “If you fail to discharge your duties as required by law, there are consequences. Those responsible must be ready to face them,” he added.
The absence of the mini-budget has sparked fears of disruptions in government operations, particularly in areas such as public sector salaries, social interventions, and essential government services. Many civil servants, whose salaries depend on these budget approvals, could face uncertainty should Parliament fail to pass the expenditure plan in time.
In response to the Minority’s concerns, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, sought to downplay the issue, denying suggestions that the government was intentionally delaying the presentation for political or strategic reasons. According to him, there might be plans underway to revise or amend the document before its eventual presentation.
“The government is not trying to manipulate or delay this process unnecessarily,” Opoku Prempeh stated. “It is possible that the Finance Minister is taking another look at the figures to ensure accuracy before laying it before the House. There is no cause for alarm.”
Nevertheless, the Minority remains unconvinced, insisting that any delays could send a negative signal about the government’s ability to manage the transition process effectively. With the clock ticking towards the end of the current parliamentary session, there is increasing pressure on the Finance Minister to appear before Parliament and present the expenditure document without further delays.
The Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation is particularly critical in election years when transitions between administrations often lead to delays in presenting a comprehensive budget. The document ensures that essential government activities such as salaries, infrastructure projects, and social programs remain uninterrupted during the first quarter of the year.
Analysts have warned that any further delays could erode confidence in the outgoing government’s ability to facilitate a smooth handover. Financial experts have also called on the Finance Ministry to provide clarity on the status of the mini-budget and reassure stakeholders of its timely approval.
As Parliament awaits the Finance Minister’s appearance, the Minority has reiterated its demand for transparency and accountability. “This is not about politics; it’s about the lives and livelihoods of Ghanaians. The government must act now to prevent unnecessary disruptions,” Agbodza stated.
The coming days will be critical as Parliament pushes for the approval of the mini-budget to safeguard the country’s financial stability. All eyes are now on the Finance Minister and the Majority leadership to resolve the impasse and ensure that the mini-budget is presented and passed without further delays.
Failure to do so, observers note, could create a ripple effect of uncertainty across the public sector, with civil servants, contractors, and government agencies bearing the brunt of the delay. As tensions mount, stakeholders are calling for swift action to avert a potential crisis in Ghana’s financial operations.
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