Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Leader in Parliament, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Akufo-Addo administration’s failure to comply with constitutional requirements to present an advance expenditure plan for the first quarter of 2025.
Speaking at the conclusion of the seventh meeting of the fourth session of the eighth Parliament, Dr. Forson called attention to the government’s inaction regarding Article 180 of the Constitution, which mandates such a submission in cases where the Appropriation Act for the upcoming year cannot take effect on January 1.
Dr. Forson emphasized the importance of ensuring a smooth transition, particularly in light of the impending change in government. He urged the outgoing administration to act in good faith by proposing expenditures to sustain public services during the transitional period.
“It is expected that the outgoing President, acting pursuant to Article 180 of the Constitution, would bring before this House a proposal for expenditures to cater for the first quarter of 2025,” Dr. Forson stated. However, he noted with regret that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo appears to have neglected this responsibility, leaving critical public services at risk of being unfunded in early 2025.
Despite the concerns, Dr. Forson sought to reassure Ghanaians that the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, which assumes office on January 7, 2025, will act swiftly to address the situation.
He explained that the Vice President, in the absence of a Finance Minister, could present the necessary expenditure proposals for parliamentary approval immediately after the new administration is sworn in.
“There is no cause for alarm,” Dr. Forson assured. “This House will be properly constituted to expedite approval of the expenditure in advance of appropriation.”
The Minority Leader also issued a caution to the outgoing administration, holding it accountable for any unmet financial obligations or state commitments during the transition period from January 1 to January 7, 2025.
In concluding his remarks, Dr. Forson expressed gratitude to the Speaker, Members of Parliament, and the staff of the Parliamentary Service for their dedication throughout the year. He also extended his well-wishes to Ghanaians, commending their electoral choices and expressing optimism for a brighter 2025 under the NDC government.
“Ghanaians deserve a Merry Christmas in the knowledge that they have taken decisions in this election that will create a better year ahead,” he remarked.
Dr. Forson ended with a hopeful message, wishing the country a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and calling for divine blessings on Ghana’s future.
Key Highlights:
- Outgoing government criticized for not presenting advance expenditure for 2025.
- Incoming NDC government pledges swift action to fund first-quarter activities.
- Assurance of a smooth transition and continuity of public services.
- Call for accountability from the Akufo-Addo administration during the transition period.
- Holiday greetings and a message of optimism for the year ahead.
Source: www.kumasimaiil.com
