Claims that Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson is refusing to release funds to government ministries are false. Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, called these assertions "laughable." He stated that government continues to release funds to ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). These releases follow approved budgetary allocations. This is all done while maintaining careful management of the economy.
Mr. Ampem spoke on Asempa FM's Ekosii Sen show. He said the Finance Minister is committed to Ghana's development. He would not deny funding due to personal reasons. "Every ministry has received its funds," he said. "Even the Ministry of Education has received 4.5 billion cedis from us." Funding requests that fit within the national budget are being honoured. Significant budget allocations have already been made to MDAs.
Ghana's economy has faced challenges. The government is working to manage public finances. This includes adhering to the national budget. The claims of withheld funds come at a time of careful fiscal planning. This is important for investor confidence. Prudent economic management is key for Ghana's stability. These actions aim to ensure resources are used effectively.
Mr. Ampem emphasized that Cassiel Ato Forson is dedicated to Ghana's progress. He is not petty. He would not block funds out of spite. "Close to 40 percent of the budgetary allocation for MDAs has already been released," Mr. Ampem revealed. "No ministry has been denied funding." All approved budget items are being processed.
The Deputy Finance Minister also addressed employment concerns. He acknowledged a backlog of trained teachers and nurses awaiting payroll placement. Government faces financial constraints. It cannot absorb all qualified personnel at once. "We gave the Education Ministry clearance for about 7,000, but the numbers are more than that," he explained. This highlights the scale of the challenge.
Aside from staff compensation, the Education Ministry received substantial funding. Approximately GHS 4.5 billion was released. This supports ongoing operations and programs. "Education alone, apart from staff costs, has received about 4.5 billion cedis, and we are on course," he added. The Finance Ministry remains focused on economic prudence. It ensures key sectors get necessary financial support.