Ghana Faces Potential Budget Crisis Ahead of Election

Ghana faces a potential unprecedented government shutdown as its parliament is unlikely to pass a provisional budget before the December 7 elections, according to former finance officials. Traditionally, such budgets are passed in November during election years to ensure continuity, but this year has been complicated by a parliamentary deadlock that has left legislators on an indefinite break since October 23. Former Minister Seth Terkper warned that without a budget, the government may have to cut back on important expenditures, including interest payments and funding for transitions. The Supreme Court's ruling regarding the Speaker's declaration of vacant seats has exacerbated the situation, as Speaker Alban Bagbin refuses to reconvene parliament, citing disruptions to the election campaign. Labour unions are expressing concern about the potential impacts on public sector salaries, urging for a solution before January. This scenario would mark the first time in over 30 years that Ghana has failed to pass a budget, raising alarm about its governance stability.