The minority in parliament requests that Ken Ofori-Atta, the finance minister, brief the chamber on Ghana’s rescue plan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
On May 19, 2023, Ghana received the first payment of $600 million from the IMF as part of a $3 billion, three-year extended credit facility to help the country’s faltering economy.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a member of parliament for North Tongu, stated on the floor of the legislature that Ofori-Atta, who is scheduled to appear in the chamber on Wednesday to address unanswered questions, should be requested to update the House on the IMF agreement.
“Mr. Speaker, I note that the Minister for Finance has been programmed to answer questions in the ensuing week, specifically on Wednesday. On Tuesday, I did make an application with the Majority Leader for the appearance of the Finance Minister who said it will be considered which is a briefing on the IMF programme. I would have thought that since the Finance Minister is available next week to answer questions, is it not possible to take full advantage of his presence and have him brief the House on the IMF programme”.
“I just want to know if the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Majority Leader has considered that or will consider that?”
The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu on his part, assured of efforts to liaise with the Minister on the concern.
“It is a legitimate concern and I will do my best, but I can only act based on the Speaker’s direction and the Speaker did not direct and so that request is in limbo.
“But I certainly had some engagements with the Finance Minister this evening and if it works, it will be helpful to us, so I will touch base with him and ferry the concerns of the House to him if it will be possible on Wednesday, it will be a good day.”
