Parliament finally approves 2024 Budget by Majority decision

Parliament has approved the government’s 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy document in a momentous turn of events.

The Majority caucus showed unwavering support for the budget, leading to victory in the critical headcount held on Wednesday, December 7, 2023.

The Speaker declared the results, confirming the House’s resolute endorsement of the budget.

Those in favour (NPP MPs) – 138

Those against (NDC MPs) – 136

Absent – 1 (Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson)

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The headcount

The need for the headcount arose following a challenge by the Minority last week to the initial voice vote.

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin declared the voice vote in favour of the Majority after the budget debate concluded on Wednesday, November 29.

The Minority Caucus contested this decision, leading to heightened tensions and a demand for a headcount.

In response, the Majority group staged a walkout, intensifying the political standoff.

On the scheduled day for the headcount, both caucuses mobilized their members to the chamber, except the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, who was reportedly abroad in Canada for medical treatment.

The vote outcome, marked by the Majority’s numbers, signifies the resolution of the parliamentary impasse and the formal approval of the 2024 budget.

This effectively paves the way for the House to begin considering the estimates for the various ministries.

2024 budget presentation

Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta presented the budget statement to Parliament on 15th November 2023 followed by two weeks of debate by members.

The Minister projected a total revenue of GH¢176.4 billion in 2024.

Highlighting key aspects of the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, Ofori-Atta indicated that the government foresees total expenditures reaching GH¢226.7 billion, constituting 21.6 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He emphasized a significant reduction in total expenditures, amounting to a 6.1 per cent decrease in GDP compared to the 2022 out-turn.