Abena Osei Asare, the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, has called on the government to re-evaluate its spending priorities. She stated that public funds must be directed towards projects that directly improve people's lives. This approach should replace the current emphasis on simply highlighting the amount of money disbursed.
Speaking on Joy FM's Super Morning Show on Friday, July 24, during a discussion on the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review, the former Deputy Finance Minister asserted that the government's economic figures do not reflect the realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians. She urged government officials to engage directly with citizens. This engagement would provide a more accurate understanding than relying solely on statistics.
This call comes amidst broader concerns about the effectiveness of public expenditure in Ghana. The nation has consistently grappled with challenges in translating economic growth figures into tangible improvements for its citizens. Past budget reviews have often focused on fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic stability. However, critics argue that these efforts sometimes overlook the microeconomic impact on households and small businesses.
Ms. Osei Asare specifically pleaded, "I would plead with you that you leave your offices and go down to the markets and hear the sentiments. The numbers that are being churned out are not reflective of what is happening on the ground." She emphasized that the critical issue is not the amount of government spending. Instead, it is whether the money is used in areas that stimulate economic activity and improve livelihoods.
She criticized what she termed government overspending in some areas. This spending, she argued, occurs while neglecting investments that could produce lasting economic benefits. The Atiwa East MP also questioned the effectiveness of funds allocated to Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). She cited findings from the Auditor-General's report to support her concerns.
According to Ms. Osei Asare, the government transferred GHS 3 billion to the assemblies in 2025. Despite this significant transfer, financial irregularities increased sharply. She noted that audit infractions rose from between GHS 18 million and GHS 21 million in 2024 to GHS 134 million. This substantial increase highlights a critical flaw in financial oversight.
"Government sent GHS 3 billion there. It is not okay to just send the monies there," she stated. She added, "For the first time we've sent this amount of money to the district assemblies, but for the first time we've also seen a rather huge escalation of auditing infractions." This suggests a disconnect between funding and accountability mechanisms.
Ms. Osei Asare stressed that the government must strengthen financial management systems and internal controls within the assemblies. This is crucial to ensure public funds are properly utilized. She explained, "You don't just send the money, but then you also strengthen the systems that they use to spend the monies. Maybe that is why you are not seeing the effects that you want to see on the ground."
She also questioned whether district assemblies were using funds allocated for sanitation as intended. This concern is particularly relevant in Greater Accra, where flooding remains a recurring challenge. "Go to the district assemblies and ask them. You mentioned the fact that they should use a percentage for sanitation. Ask them whether the sanitation component is being used, especially in Greater Accra where we saw a huge surge in the flooding issues."
The implications of these observations are significant for Ghana's public finance management. A continued rise in audit infractions could erode public trust and deter future investment. Decision-makers will need to respond by implementing stricter oversight and accountability measures. This will ensure that public funds contribute effectively to national development and improve the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.