LIVE UPDATES: Finance Minister presents 2019 Budget statement

Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta is today fulfilling his constitutional mandate of presenting the government's budget statement in parliament. The budget statement which is the third of the Akufo-Addo administration is expected to address very pertinent issues that has arisen over the course of time.

The government's first ever budget, christened 'Asempa budget' read in March 2017 brought to life the flagship policy, Free SHS and the abolishing of taxes termed 'nuisance tax'

The second, 'Adwuma budget' read in November 2017 promised to bring about jobs and economic prosperity for Ghanaians. This brought in its wake the NaBCo programme where 100, 000 graduates are to be given 3-year employment under 7 modules.

Over the two-year period the government has been in power, it has touted its management of the economy especially improving the macroeconomic indicators. Despite its much celebrated feat, many businesses complain about harsh economic times, increasing taxes especially at the ports, increase in fuel prices and for much of the year a depreciating cedi against the dollar.

Civil society Organisations have advised government to prioritise some key sectors. IMANI for instance has tasked government to focus on clearing the exergy sector debts. Akufo-Addo has hinted that the 2019 budget will bring hope to Ghanaians. The minority though believe there will be more hardship as they predict new taxes and cut in expenditure.

The budget is the first of the Akufo-Addo administration after it exits the IMF bailout signed unto in 2015 by the then Mahama-led government