The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has praised the 2026 Budget Statement presented by the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, describing it as a forward-looking document that positions Ghana for renewed growth and stability.

Concluding the debate on the budget in Parliament, Mr Ayariga said the policy framework demonstrates “prudent management of the resources of this economy to achieve our growth objective.”

He stressed that the shift in economic direction within one year was remarkable, especially when compared to what he called the “criminal handling of our economy” under the previous administration.

According to the Majority Leader, the 2026 budget offers a concrete plan to “reset Ghana for growth, jobs and transformation”, with clear evidence of fiscal discipline.

He reaffirmed that the government has replaced “bloated, opaque and corrupt expenditures” with responsible financial administration.

“We have been able to honour our debt obligations thus far because we have been smart and not looting and plundering the finances of the country,” he argued.

He added that the government’s approach to debt servicing reflects honesty and discipline rather than luck.

Mr Ayariga highlighted major gains in the energy sector as evidence of improved governance.

He cited the suspension of all new Power Purchase Agreements in May 2025, the migration of state facilities to prepaid metering, and the renegotiation of legacy Independent Power Producer (IPP) debts as key successes.

The Majority Leader also commended ECG Acting Managing Director, Julius Kpekpena, for what he described as “excellent handling” of the company, noting significant revenue increases and the termination of underperforming contracts that saved the nation millions of dollars.

He further dismissed criticisms from the Minority about perceived inadequacies in health and mining sector allocations.

Mr Ayariga insisted that the government had restored financial stability to the National Health Insurance Scheme and delivered unprecedented resources to key social sectors.

He said, “Our NHIS is now financially reliable, stable and trusted by service providers,” pointing to the additional GH₵3.4 billion that flowed into the scheme in 2025.

Concluding his remarks, the Majority Leader urged Parliament to recognise the progress made under the current administration and the Finance Minister’s stewardship.

“This is a budget that will generate growth,” he declared. “It is prudent, thoughtful and reflective of a government committed to transformation.”

He encouraged Members of Parliament from both sides to support the implementation of measures that will anchor Ghana’s economic recovery.