'Why present the Budget at 6 pm?' – Afenyo-Markin challenges Dr Ato Forson

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has questioned the decision to schedule the presentation of the 2027 Budget for 6 p.m., accusing Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson of deliberately choosing a time when many Ghanaians may not be paying attention.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the Minority Leader expressed concern about the unusual timing, suggesting that the government may be attempting to avoid public scrutiny of its economic policies.

He argued that the Finance Minister should have no reason to present the Budget late in the evening if he is confident about the government’s economic performance and the measures contained in the financial statement.

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“We find it very strange that the Finance Minister has chosen 6 p.m. as the only time for him to come, because he wants Ghanaians to be sleeping,” he stated.

The Minority Leader further questioned the justification for the timing, asking why the Minister would prefer an evening presentation rather than appearing before Parliament earlier in the day.

He also raised concerns about other government activities reportedly scheduled around the same period, including the launch of the new Heritage Cedi.

The concerns follow an announcement by Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin on Tuesday, November 10, that he had approved the Finance Minister’s request for an evening presentation.

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The Speaker explained that the Minister had provided reasons for the change and that the arrangement would help prevent MPs from becoming fatigued before the Budget presentation.

DR/MA

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