The Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the government will not return to Parliament to seek supplementary budget estimates for the remainder of the 2026 fiscal year.
Presenting the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament on Thursday, July 23, Dr Forson said the appropriations approved for the year remain intact despite ongoing expenditure needs.
“Mr Speaker, today I am not here to seek supplementary estimates. The 2026 appropriations remain unchanged,” he told Parliament.
Instead of requesting additional funding, the Minister said the government would reprioritise spending within the existing budget to meet its commitments.
He explained that the government would undertake a strategic realignment of expenditure while operating within the approved appropriations.
Dr Forson also highlighted what he described as strong macroeconomic performance during the first half of the year, saying the government had made significant progress towards its fiscal and economic targets.
“Overall GDP growth of at least 4.8%, Non-Oil Real GDP growth of at least 4.9%, End-year inflation of 8% plus or minus 2%, a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP on commitment basis and Gross International Reserves sufficient to cover not less than three months of imports,” he said.
The Finance Minister attributed the improvement to policy measures introduced by the Mahama administration since assuming office.
“President Mahama took over an economy with reckless spending, excessive borrowing, and lack of accountability. President Mahama took over an economy that was on its knees,” he stated.
He also criticised the previous administration’s management of the economy, adding, “The cedi depreciated as never seen before.”
The announcement comes against the backdrop of a firm stance by the Minority in Parliament, which had vowed to reject any request by the government for supplementary funding.
First Deputy Minority Whip and Member of Parliament for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, issued the warning on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, July 22.
He said the budget review should instead focus on accounting for the government’s campaign promises, clearing outstanding payments owed to contractors, and providing updates on flagship programmes.
Mr Iddrisu insisted that Parliament had already approved significant funding for the government and would not support any fresh request for money.
Dr Forson’s confirmation that no supplementary estimates will be sought is therefore likely to ease concerns over a potential budget impasse in Parliament while reinforcing the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline.
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