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Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the finance minister-designate, has firmly rejected media reports suggesting that the new government intends to seek additional financial support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking during his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, Dr. Forson clarified that his previous comments had been misinterpreted and taken out of context.
“I didn’t say I was going to request additional finance from the IMF,” Dr. Forson stated unequivocally. “It’s inaccurate reportage. What I said was that we could request additional finance if the need arises,” he explained.
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His comments followed media reports that had sparked public speculation about the government’s intentions regarding future IMF support.
Dr. Forson was quick to clarify that his remarks were purely speculative and were meant to highlight the need for flexibility in managing the country’s economic affairs.
He emphasised that the decision to request additional IMF assistance would only be made if the country’s financial situation required it and not as a predetermined plan.
The finance minister-designate stressed that he had not made any definitive statements regarding additional IMF funding.
“The government will continue to assess our financial needs on a case-by-case basis, and we will explore all avenues to stabilise the economy,” he said. “But I want to make it clear that this is not something we have already decided to pursue.”
Dr. Forson also urged the media to be cautious in their reporting to avoid unnecessary public confusion.
He reiterated that his comments were in no way an indication of an imminent request for more IMF support but rather a reflection of the need for the government to remain adaptable to changing circumstances.
On the broader economic picture, Dr. Forson reaffirmed his commitment to prudent financial management and transparency.
He assured Ghanaians that the government’s focus would remain on ensuring sustainable economic recovery, tackling key issues such as revenue generation, public debt, and inflation.
“We are committed to working with all stakeholders, including the IMF, if necessary, to ensure that Ghana remains on a path to long-term economic growth and stability. But let me be clear: any such decisions will be based on the needs of the country and not a presupposed course of action,” he concluded.
