The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has described the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy as a bold and strategic plan to revive Ghana’s economy, arguing that the measures outlined will stabilise key sectors, create jobs, and restore growth.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on March 11, 2025, after Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson presented the first budget under the Mahama administration, Mr Ayariga dismissed Minority criticisms, stating that the government is taking firm steps to rebuild the economy after years of mismanagement.

“This budget lays the foundation for economic recovery. It is realistic and directly addresses the challenges facing Ghanaians,” Ayariga said.

“We inherited a struggling economy, but we are committed to restoring stability, ensuring fiscal discipline, and providing relief to businesses and households.”

Tackling economic instability

Mr Ayariga said the Mahama administration is prioritising policies to reduce inflation, stabilise the cedi, and increase revenue.

He blamed the current economic difficulties on the previous administration’s financial mismanagement, which he said led to high public debt and Ghana’s return to the IMF.

“The reckless economic decisions of the past administration put us in a difficult position. This budget is the first step toward reversing that decline,” he stated.

He emphasised that Ghana’s economic recovery would be anchored on improving revenue collection, restructuring debt, and investing in productive sectors such as agriculture, industry, and infrastructure.

Job creation and private sector support

Mr Ayariga defended the government’s employment strategy, stressing that job creation, especially for the youth, is central to the Mahama administration’s agenda.

“This budget is about real economic transformation. The government is investing in skills training, industrialisation, and entrepreneurship to ensure that young Ghanaians have access to sustainable employment,” he said.

He also assured Parliament that the 24-hour economy policy remains a priority and would be rolled out soon, dismissing Minority claims that it was missing from the budget.

“The 24-hour economy is a game-changer. The government is finalising its implementation, and more details will be shared in the coming months,” Ayariga stated.

He added that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will receive financial support, tax incentives, and reduced regulatory hurdles to help them expand and employ more people.

“The Minority can continue to criticise, but the truth is that they left behind an economic mess. This government is working around the clock to fix it, and this budget is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” Ayariga argued.

He urged Ghanaians to support the Mahama administration, assuring that the policies outlined in the budget would restore economic confidence and improve livelihoods.

“This budget is not just about figures,it is about real lives, real jobs, and real businesses. We are determined to ensure that every Ghanaian benefits from the economic reforms we are putting in place,” he added.