The Minority in Parliament has issued a strong caution ahead of the forthcoming presentation of the 2024 Annual Budget Statement and Economic Policy, set for November 15, 2023.

The NDC MPs have declared that they will resist the budget if it does not adequately tackle the immediate issues confronting everyday Ghanaians during the ongoing economic difficulties.

Addressing the Parliament following the recess, the MP for Ajumaka-Enyan-Essiam and Minority leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson underscored their commitment to easing the hardships experienced by the Ghanaian public rather than exacerbating them.

“The prevailing economic conditions have already made it very difficult for the ordinary Ghanaian and businesses, and therefore, we can’t be a party to any policy or measure which makes things even more unbearable for the already suffering Ghanaian and businesses."

"Mr. Speaker, let me be blunt; the upcoming budget statement will encounter resistance if it does not prioritize the needs of people and businesses. That is our bottom line.

"So, if the government knows that its upcoming budget does not prioritize the needs of the people, then they should get ready for a SHOWDOWN!” he said.

Nonetheless, the former Deputy Finance Minister clarified that the Minority's stance is not aimed at obstructing the government's policy implementation.

“Mr. Speaker, the position taken by the Minority Caucus is not intended to frustrate the government; far from that.

We have taken the position to be on the side of the people of Ghana as we have always done in the life of this Parliament, and Parliaments before this one.”

The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, is scheduled to deliver the government's 2024 Annual Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on November 15, 2023.

This announcement was made by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, during the parliamentary session on Tuesday. He underscored the significance of thoroughly reviewing the budget to ensure it meets the requirements of all Ghanaians.

“I believe this house will adopt a consultative and consensus-building approach throughout this process. We have demonstrated enough capacity and experience in budget approval deliberations, and this will be no different,” he said.