Hon. Mahama Tiah Abdul Kabiru, Member of Parliament for Walewale, has criticised the government’s economic performance, accusing them of presenting misleading data and failing to address Ghanaians’ everyday concerns.
Speaking in Parliament during the 2026 Budget Debate, Hon. Kabiru questioned the government’s claim of achieving 6% GDP growth, pointing out that the economy grew at 7% in the first half of 2024. He urged caution, emphasising that the current growth rate is actually a decline.
Hon. Kabiru disputed the government’s GDP growth narrative, citing data showing a decline from 7% in 2024 to 6% currently.
On Gross Reserves, the MP noted that the government’s gross international reserves have only increased by less than one month of import cover, from four months to 4.8 months.
Again on the debt situation, Hon. Kabiru attributed the lower debt-to-GDP ratio to external factors, including a debt standstill, bilateral and multilateral debt forgiveness, and renegotiation of obligations, rather than government efforts.
Hon. Kabiru accused the government of failing to address Ghana’s debt situation and urged them to be more transparent about their economic achievements.
Commenting on the government’s Big Push Policy, Hon. Mahama Tiah also criticised the policy, questioning its effectiveness in creating sustainable jobs and driving economic growth.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Kabiru expressed concerns that the policy’s focus on construction jobs, which account for 490,000 of the promised 800,000 jobs, is not a reliable means of providing decent and lasting employment for Ghanaians.
Hon Kabiru doubts the government’s ability to meet its revenue targets, citing a significant gap between projected revenue and actual collections.
The MP highlighted the government’s plan to borrow GHS 8 billion in 2027, GHS 8 billion in 2026, and GHS 9 billion in 2029, questioning the sustainability of such debt accumulation.
Hon. Kabiru noted that only 54% of the allocated GHS 13 billion for the Big Push programme has been spent, with plans to spend GHS 10 billion by year-end, falling short of expectations.
Hon. Kabiru urged the government to prioritise effective implementation and accountability, rather than making unfulfilled promises.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana