By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The newly appointed Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, says he will not deviate from economic policies his predecessor, Mr. Ken Ofori Atta, has put forth.
Speaking in an interview hours after his appointment to replace Mr. Ofori Atta was announced, Dr. Adam who has been part and parcel of government’s planning and negotiations with the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) bailout programme assured the fund managers that government of Ghana will not deviate from the ongoing programme.
Dr. Amin Adam underscored the government’s determination to stay on the course laid out in collaboration with the IMF.
“If you look at the budget that was presented this year, there were a number of pro-poor initiatives, and I do not intend to depart from those pro-poor initiatives.
And I will ensure that business follows as usual as it should. We will make sure that we move faster to implement the tax reliefs that were made in the budget, and I am going to make sure the poor are insulated.
It is important to note that we are under an IMF programme and I want to assure the IMF and the business community that I will ensure that the programme remains on track. I will work to ensure that the programme does not suffer,” he reiterated.
The Akufo Addo-Bawumia led administration sought assistance from the IMF to address fiscal challenges, implement economic reforms, and strengthen macroeconomic fundamentals.
Officials of the ruling party say the ongoing programme reflects a strategic partnership aimed at addressing economic challenges and fostering fiscal responsibility in Ghana.
Ghana’s current programme with the IMF makes it the 17th time the country has gone to seek financial assistance. It involves a set of policies and reforms designed to enhance economic stability, boost growth, and create a favourable environment for sustainable development.
Ghana’s engagement with the IMF has been driven by various economic factors, including fiscal deficits, external imbalances, and the need for structural reforms.
The programme typically includes measures to contain inflation, reduce budget deficits, and enhance overall economic resilience.
