The Minority in Parliament has sounded a dire alarm regarding the deteriorating state of the Ghanaian Cedi, projecting a continued decline in its value.
Amidst the Cedi’s depreciation, which has now reached GH₵15 to the dollar, traders have begun passing on the increased costs to consumers, resulting in significant price hikes across goods and services.
Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, during a press briefing in Parliament on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, emphasized the grave repercussions of the Cedi’s depreciation on businesses, particularly in key commercial hubs like Okaishie, Abossey Okai, and Kejetia.
Dr. Forson criticized the government’s handling of the currency, despite substantial inflows of foreign exchange from institutions like the IMF and the World Bank.
He expressed disappointment in the Economic Management Team chaired by Vice President Alhaji Bawumia, suggesting that their decisions have failed to stem the Cedi’s decline.
“The reality of the Ghanaian economy today exposes the credentials of the so-called economic wizkid who was marketed as the saviour of Ghana’s economy. Alhaji Bawumia’s credibility is now in tatters,” Dr. Forson remarked.
He also accused Vice President Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, of prioritizing his election campaign over addressing the economic crisis.
“We urge the Vice President to quit his off-beat dancing on the campaign trail and focus on the dancing Cedi,” he urged.
The depreciation of the Cedi has inflicted severe hardships on traders nationwide, with many grappling with mounting debts due to the weakening currency. The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FBAG) highlighted the challenge posed by the credit-based business model prevalent in the country, making it arduous for importers to settle their dues.
Echoing these concerns, the Ghana Union Traders Association (GUTA) expressed frustration over the declining value of the Cedi, stressing its widespread impact on traders across Ghana.