Economist and University of Ghana lecturer, Dr. Adu Sarkodie, has criticised the government for defaulting on its promises in the 2026 national budget, arguing that fiscal policy shifted into an unexpectedly conservative mode despite projections of economic expansion.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on TV3’s Business Focus, Dr. Sarkodie acknowledged that while Ghanaians experienced general macroeconomic stability throughout 2026, the government failed to deliver on its growth-oriented commitments.
“Even though the 2026 budget promised to be expansionary, unfortunately, by mid-year, it reverted to the same trend seen in 2025, where the government remained conservative and focused on fiscal consolidation,” Dr. Sarkodie noted.
He highlighted that vital capital expenditures, including investments in roads, railways, aviation, water systems, power infrastructure, housing, health, and education, were largely neglected. According to the economist, this underinvestment resulted in overly restrictive fiscal and monetary policies that dampened growth.
Looking ahead to the upcoming 2027 budget presentation, Dr. Sarkodie urged policymakers to move away from aggressive fiscal consolidation and instead prioritise critical capital expenditure to stimulate macroeconomic activity and improve livelihoods across the country.
By Ishmael Oduro Acheampong
