Majority Leader defends 2026 budget, highlights gains in inflation, credit rating and infrastructure

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga on Wednesday mounted a strong defence of the 2026 Budget Statement, describing it as evidence of Ghana’s steady progress in economic stability, job creation, and infrastructure development.

Speaking on the Floor of Parliament after Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson presented the budget themed “Resetting for Growth, Jobs, and Economic Transformation,” Mr Ayariga said the document reflected transparency and collective approval by Cabinet ministers.

He pointed to achievements under the government’s key programmes, including the 24-hour economy initiative, and highlighted major infrastructure works such as the Kumasi highway, which he said demonstrated a strong commitment to national development.

According to the Majority Leader, Ghana’s inflation rate had now dropped to eight per cent, with the country’s credit rating upgraded to B- with a stable outlook. He said those improvements were signs of strengthened economic management and urged young people to remain hopeful and continue contributing to the country’s recovery.

Mr Ayariga, who is also the NDC Member of Parliament for Bawku, paused to acknowledge Wednesday’s tragic incident in which six young women lost their lives during a Ghana Armed Forces recruitment process. He extended sympathy to the affected families and stressed government’s resolve to address emerging challenges.

The budget announcement comes as Ghana prepares to exit the IMF programme in May 2026, with analysts projecting a careful balance of growth investments and fiscal discipline in the year ahead.

Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, however, criticised the Finance Minister for what he described as inadequate disclosure and insufficient accounting for certain funds. He stressed the importance of parliamentary scrutiny and voiced disappointment that the minister had not, in his view, duly acknowledged Parliament’s vital role.