2013 budget is a journey to nowhere - Minority

The minority described the 2013 budget statement as a “journey to nowhere” when it was read by the finance and economic planning minister in parliament on Tuesday.

In a brief assessment of the budget shortly after the presentation by Seth Terpker, the minority leader downplayed its relevance, predicting harsh economic conditions this year.

Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, sharing his thoughts on the floor of the house, insisted that Ghana’s development would hit a snail's pace should government continue to make unrealistic projections.

Obviously infuriated by the minority leader’s sentiments, Alfred Agbesi of the majority side abandoned his seat to challenge his claims saying, “the minority leader is at a lost because he is suppose to second a motion and not to digest what is in the budget”.

But not even the latter’s intervention would persuade Osei-Kyei-Mensah Bonsu from hurling further invectives.

“We are all witnesses to what the finance minister read and clearly this budget has no future. It is a journey to nowhere. I am pleased to announce that the minority is ready to debate this budget now,” he stated, amidst yelling and jeering from members of the majority.

Speaker Doe Adjaho therefore adjourned sitting and formal commencement of the debate of the budget to Thursday.

Mr Tepker in presenting the budget touched on a wide range of measures adopted by government to fast track the nation’s development.