Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has accused the government of attempting to purchase ships at an estimated cost of €140 million, describing the move as unnecessary and fiscally irresponsible.
Raising concerns during parliamentary proceedings, Dr. Ato Forson criticized the proposal, arguing that it places an undue financial burden on the nation at a time when the country’s resources are already constrained.
“There are obvious attempts by this government to saddle the incoming government with a huge financial drain, and I say this because before us they’re proposing to buy ships worth €140m at this time,” he said.
He questioned the timing of the purchase, emphasizing that it is inappropriate for an outgoing government to make such significant financial commitments with only weeks left in office.
“Mr. Speaker, it is very wrong for a government that is leaving office in three weeks to commit €140m. Mr. Speaker, if it is extremely important for the State, allow the new government to commit them.”
Dr. Ato Forson also raised concerns about tax exemptions associated with the deal, warning that their approval would impose an additional fiscal burden on the country’s next administration.
“Mr. Speaker, the tax exemptions before us, if approved, will have a fiscal burden in the next budget. So you are saying that the next government should carry your burden of $350m. Mr. Speaker, no way.”
He assured Ghanaians that the Minority remains committed to fiscal prudence and will resist policies or loans that undermine economic stability.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul defended the proposal, stating that the ships are essential for the Navy’s operations. He added that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the government’s request to secure a loan for their purchase.