The recent Budget Statement and Economic Policy for the 2024 financial year have sparked heated criticism from the minority in Ghana's Parliament, with scathing assessments deeming the proposal a cause for concern.
The Minority in Parliament strongly condemned the government's budget presentation, labeling it as a "true definition of an empty budget" that reflects a cruel and insensitive approach, seemingly detached from the realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians and businesses. The accusatory tone targeted Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and the economic management team, led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, citing a perceived departure from the well-being of the populace and a failure to address economic challenges. Notably, the Minority accused the current administration of leaving behind a dire economic legacy characterized by pervasive debt, over-taxation, hyperinflation, and escalating unemployment.
READ ALSO: Akosombo Dam Spillage: Gov't Allocates GH¢220 Million for Flood Relief in 2024 Budget
Allegations of Corruption and Tax Burden
The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, emphasized the anticipated aftermath of the current government's tenure, asserting that they are bequeathing a landscape marred by unruly corruption, highlighting concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops' Conference. Moreover, significant disapproval was directed at what was described as the introduction of additional burdensome tax measures in the budget, including hefty tax introductions totaling GH¢11 billion and modifications to the tax regime that are anticipated to impact informal income and VAT regulations, among other areas.
Retort and Defense from the Majority
In response, the Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, refuted the Minority's claims, pointing to alleged deficiencies during their own administration's tenure, particularly underlining their purported failure to instate the Free Senior High School program without external crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Deputy Majority Leader also highlighted what he portrayed as the present government's achievements in implementing essential infrastructure projects and addressing longstanding challenges like the "dumsor" power crisis.
READ ALSO: 2024 Budget : Key Highlights From Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta's Presentation
Amidst the unending chants echoing from both ends of the political spectrum, and the display of various slogans, the members of the house joyfully expressed their support or dissent regarding the budget. The minority's messages included phrases like "family and friends budget" and "corruption budget," while the majority showcased slogans such as ‘Nkunim’ (victory) budget, and budget for progress and prosperity, among others.
The atmosphere became increasingly clamorous each time either side initiated a new chant. After approximately five minutes of festivity, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, intervened to restore order and enable the resumption of proceedings.
Follow Us On Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/bfmnetwork
Before this commotion, the House was relatively tranquil, with some MPs observed either dozing off or engaged in casual conversations. Following the finance minister's presentation, the House rekindled with activity as the Speaker invited leaders from both sides to share brief remarks.
However, when Afenyo-Markin stood up, the minority reacted with cries of "We want Kyei, we want Kyei," instead of addressing Afenyo-Markin. This protest seemed to be directed towards the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, rather than Afenyo-Markin. Nevertheless, Afenyo-Markin disregarded the outcry and proceeded to launch a personal attack on Dr. Ato Forson, prompting the Speaker to intervene.
Ultimately, the Speaker adjourned the session, rescheduling the debate on the budget statement to continue today.
https://bfmnetworknews.blogspot.com/
Comments
Post a Comment