The incoming Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, is expected to deliver a temporary budget statement in Parliament on January 7, 2025. This move aims to address concerns about the outgoing government’s failure to present the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation.
Typically, the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation allows the incoming administration to access public funds for a three-month period before presenting a full budget statement to Parliament . This practice is usual in election years to ensure a smooth government transition.
In the past, similar temporary budget statements have been presented, such as the 2021 Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation, which authorized the withdrawal of GH¢27,434,180,520 from the Consolidated Fund for the first quarter of 2021.
By having Professor Opoku-Agyemang deliver the temporary budget statement, the National Democratic Congress administration can mitigate potential disruptions in public spending and ensure continuity in government services.
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to present the 2025 mini-budget, sparking concerns about funding arrangements for early next year .
According to him, Vice-President can present the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation to Parliament after being sworn in on January 7, 2025, ensuring a smooth transition despite the absence of a Finance Minister.
“There is no cause for alarm! Even though there will be no Minister of Finance on January 7, 2025, the Vice-President can present to this House the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation any time after swearing-in on January 7, 2025, and Parliament will be properly constituted to expedite approval of the same.” he said.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has warned that the outgoing Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government will be held accountable for any unmet state commitments from January 1 to January 7, 2025 .
Great woman of all standards.
We need to reset this country and we are in the right direction now.. Prof manage the house