Social commentator Andrew Atariwini has noted that the fiscal targets set by the current administration are conservative, stating that they do not surpass the economic indicators of the previous government, reflecting a more moderate approach.
“If you look at their macroeconomic indicators and the targets they are setting for themselves, they are not even at the levels the previous administration left. So it simply means they are trying to be moderate.”
Speaking on A1 Radio following the presentation of the 2025 budget by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson on March 11, Mr. Atariwini expressed his belief that while the presentation was solid, he had expected the Minister to display more ambition in the budget proposals.
Despite this, he acknowledged that the presentation was well-delivered, and the Minister appeared confident in outlining the government’s plans. Mr. Atariwini also pointed out that while some aspects of the presentation may have been influenced by political messaging, the overall public sentiment was positive.
On the allocation of GH¢3.5 billion for the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, Mr. Atariwini stressed the significance of the sum, describing it as a substantial amount. He expressed hope that these funds would be effectively managed and used to support the development of secondary education in the country. Furthermore, he endorsed the proposal by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to decentralize school feeding and shift some responsibilities to the local level, seeing it as a beneficial approach if implemented.
“GH¢3.5 billion is not a small amount of money. I’m just praying that it doesn’t remain only on paper but is properly managed. If all this money actually goes into the senior high schools, and if, as the NDC is proposing, the feeding program is decentralized and some responsibilities are shifted to the secondary school level, then I believe it’s a very good idea.”
Meanwhile, the social commentator highlighted the need to monitor progress, noting that the true test of the budget will come in the next six months. He stated that the public will be watching to see if the government meets its targets and delivers on its promises, as the outcome will likely shape political discourse in the coming months.
“Now, the die is cast. We are waiting. In the next six months, towards the end of the year, we’ll see whether or not the government has been able to meet its targets and do exactly what it is proposing.”
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
