The out-gonig National Democratic Congress (NDC) minority caucus in Ghana’s parliament has raised red flags over what it suspects to be an attempt by the out-going New Patriotic Party (NPP) government to frustrate the incoming Mahama led administration.
This follows the absence of the finance minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam from Parliament on the first two todays as the House reconvenes for the last Meeting of the last Session of the 8th parliament.
According to business schedules on the Order Paper of the House for Monday 16 and Tuesday 17, 2024, the finance minister was expected to present Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025 as a major item.
The adoption of expenditure in advance of appropriation budget also reffered to as vote on account is crucial in ensuring that monies are made available for government ependitture especially the payment of salaries of workers for first quater of 2025 before the 8th parliament is officially dissolved on 6th January, 2025.
Following the outcome of the 2024 general elections, the new government is expected to present its budget in March 2025 hence the need for a votes on account.
The absence of the sector minister for two consecutive days and leadership of the majority front bench further fueled speculations.
Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, Adomako Kissi who was the available leader informed the House that the NPP leadership had no information about the whereabout of the finance minister.
In response, Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza obsereved the absence may be a calculated move by the NPP to frustrate the incoming new government after the 2024 elections.
The Minority warned of dire consequences should the situation persist and further asserted that if workers face delays in receiving their wages, the NPP government must bear full responsibility.
On his part, the 2024 running mate of the NPP and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, denied claims that the government is trying to exert control and explained that there may be plans by the Finance Minister to amend the document for onward presentation.
By: Christian Kpesese
