The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has expressed concern over the outgoing administration’s failure to comply with Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
According to him, the current government has neglected its constitutional duty to present an Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation, which is crucial for the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year.
Speaking to the parliamentary press corps, Dr. Forson criticized the outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration for failing to act in good faith. He emphasized the constitutional requirement for the outgoing president to submit a proposal for expenditure to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of governance.
Dr. Forson underscored the importance of this constitutional mandate, stating that the failure to present the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation could disrupt the public service’s operations. He also noted that the Cooperative Act of 2025, which is expected to come into force on January 1, 2025, does not excuse this lapse.
“Sadly, the outgoing administration has left the public service unprepared for the first quarter of 2025,” he remarked. However, he assured the people of Ghana that the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, led by Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, will act promptly to address this oversight.
Dr. Forson reassured Ghanaians that the NDC government will ensure a seamless transition. He explained that although there may not be a finance minister in place immediately after the swearing-in on January 7, 2025, the Vice President has the authority to present an Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation to Parliament. He expressed confidence that the new Parliament will be properly constituted to expedite the approval process.
“Let me assure Ghanaians and all stakeholders that there is no cause for alarm. The NDC government will act swiftly to cater for the nation’s expenditure needs for the first quarter of 2025,” he said.
The Minority Leader also cautioned the outgoing administration against shirking its responsibilities. He stated that the Akufo-Addo government would be held accountable for any unmet commitments or obligations of the state between January 1 and January 7, 2025.
Dr. Forson took the opportunity to commend the 127 NDC Members of Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament, the Parliamentary Service, and the Parliamentary Press Corps for their hard work and dedication. He also extended festive greetings to all Ghanaians, urging them to look forward to a brighter year under an NDC administration.
“Let us celebrate this Christmas knowing that the decisions made in this election will create a better future for us all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone. God bless our homeland, Ghana, and make our nation great and strong,” he pleaded.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
