Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has revealed that the government will soon provide detailed updates on outstanding payments owed to road contractors during the upcoming mid-year budget review.

This move forms part of efforts to tackle mounting arrears and maintain fiscal discipline, especially as concerns grow within the construction sector over delayed payments.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, Nyarko noted that a comprehensive audit of the arrears has been completed by the Auditor-General in collaboration with top accounting firms.

He disclosed that some of the claims submitted by contractors were found to be invalid.

“These findings will be factored into the budget. The audit reports have shown that some payment claims have been disallowed,” he stated.

Nyarko added that Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, will present the verified arrears and outline a settlement plan during the mid-year budget presentation.

He also highlighted that the government has already allocated GH¢13 billion for arrears payments in 2025 and is committed to following this plan strictly.

Additionally, he emphasised that the government is taking a cautious approach to spending by approving only expenditures that align with the annual budget to prevent the accumulation of new arrears.

Nyarko further criticised the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration for its handling of public finances, stating that their approach led to unsustainable debt levels.

According to him, repeating such strategies would result in the irresponsible cycle of paying off old arrears while creating new ones.

DR/MA

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