Ghana's Minority in Parliament Flags Contradictory Figures in 2027 Budget

The Minority in Parliament has expressed concerns over the government's 2027 budget, citing contradictory figures that raise doubts about the accuracy and clarity of the financial data presented. According to Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, Ranking Member of Parliament's Finance Committee, a review of the Budget Statement revealed different figures for key spending and economic indicators in various parts of the document.

Dr Amin Adam pointed to specific discrepancies, including Ghana's gross international reserves at the end of September 2026, which were listed as US$12.7 billion in one paragraph and US$12.1 billion in another. He also highlighted varying allocations for the Big Push programme, listed as GH¢27.8 billion, GH¢28 billion, and GH¢29.8 billion in different sections of the document.

Further discrepancies were found in capital expenditure figures, stated as GH¢98.4 billion, GH¢98.3 billion, and GH¢100.4 billion across the document. Dr Amin Adam also questioned the Budget's claim of identifying five principal risks, saying only four were listed. The omitted risks, he argued, included the Bank of Ghana's losses, COCOBOD's GH¢30.55 billion debt, and arrears in the energy sector.

Dr Amin Adam emphasised the need for the government to provide clear and consistent information to enable Parliament to properly scrutinise its expenditure plans, revenue projections, and economic targets. He stated that the Budget's numbers do not add up, and Ghanaians must ask which one is real. The Minority's concerns raise questions about the government's financial management and transparency.

The 2027 budget presentation by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson had aimed to outline the government's fiscal plans and economic projections. However, the Minority's findings have cast doubt on the accuracy of the data presented. The government must address these concerns and provide explanations to reconcile the inconsistencies.

The contradictory figures have sparked debate about the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in its financial dealings. The Minority's concerns may have implications for the budget's approval process and the government's ability to implement its fiscal plans.

The government faces pressure to clarify the discrepancies and provide a clear and consistent picture of its financial plans. Failure to address these concerns may undermine confidence in the government's financial management and transparency.

Key points

• The Minority in Parliament has flagged contradictory figures in the 2027 budget, including discrepancies in gross international reserves and programme allocations.
• The government must provide clear and consistent information to enable Parliament to properly scrutinise its expenditure plans and economic targets.
• The contradictory figures have sparked debate about the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in its financial dealings.