The Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has defended the 2025 budget, stating that it offers real hope to Ghanaians despite criticisms from the Minority in Parliament. 

His comments come after Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson presented the budget to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11. 

According to Dr Boamah, the Minority’s reaction to the budget is nothing more than political theatrics aimed at discrediting the government’s efforts to stabilise and grow the economy.

In a statement addressing the concerns raised by the Minority, Dr Boamah urged Ghanaians to focus on the substance of the budget rather than the opposition’s criticisms. 

“This budget presents a clear and strategic plan for economic recovery, job creation, and energy sustainability. The Minority’s theatrics are nothing but an attempt to distort the facts and mislead the public,” he said. 

He emphasised that the budget includes critical interventions in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and social protection, which will benefit all citizens.

Dr Boamah also dismissed the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s claims that the government is recklessly selling State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and using Value Added Tax (VAT) to exploit businesses. 

“The government remains committed to strengthening our state institutions and ensuring fair taxation policies that support businesses, not cripple them,” he stated. 

He urged businesses and investors to have confidence in the government’s economic policies, assuring them that the budget prioritises economic stability and growth.

The Defence Minister further called on Ghanaians to reject what he described as the opposition’s attempts to create unnecessary fear and uncertainty. 

He encouraged citizens to support the policies outlined in the budget to help drive national development. 

“This is not a time for political gimmicks; it is a time for action. The 2025 budget offers real solutions to our challenges, and we must all work together to achieve our national goals,” he concluded.