Former Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Abena Osei Asare, has challenged the government’s assertions of economic recovery, arguing that the lived experiences of ordinary Ghanaians tell a vastly different story.
Contributing to the debate on the mid-year budget review on the floor of Parliament on Monday, July 28, the Member of Parliament said that citizens continue to grapple with the soaring cost of living.
Madam Osei Asare criticised the government’s heavy emphasis on macroeconomic indicators, stating that such figures are far removed from the realities on the ground.
“Mr Speaker, ask about the prices of plain rice, not aromatic rice. Ask about cassava, not all the sophisticated things the Minister came here to announce,” she said.
“Go to the market and ask for prices — it is evident that Ghanaians are not feeling the so-called economic stability.”
She further questioned the coherence of the government’s economic policies, highlighting contradictions in the Finance Minister’s strategy.
“The Minister claims he is working hard to reduce the number of items in the inflation basket by targeting food prices.
“On one hand, he speaks of increasing food production, but on the other hand, he introduces measures that will raise transport fares by 30 to 40%,” she pointed out.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson had earlier stated that the prices of goods and services had significantly declined due to sound fiscal policies and disciplined economic management.
However, Madam Osei Asare disputed that position, urging the government to prioritise practical, citizen-centred interventions that would translate any macroeconomic gains into tangible relief for households across the country.
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