Ofori-Atta To Appear Before Parliament Today Over Debt Exchange Programme

Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta will today, Thursday, February 16, appear before Parliament over the controversial Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.

It will be recalled that the Speaker of Parliament summoned the sector minister after the North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed concern over the continuous picketing of the pensioner bondholders at the Finance Ministry.

Adding his voice, the Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin said it was necessary for the Minister to appear before Parliament to provide answers to questions raised by constituents of members of the House.

“Mr. Speaker, on the issue of the DDEP, pursuant to your directive, we engaged the Finance Minister, and we have his assurance to be here on Thursday, February 16, 2023,” the deputy Majority leader said.

The programme, since its announcement, has met fierce opposition from diverse groups and individuals, with pensioners leading the charge.

The Ministry of Finance however said it has achieved 85% of its target under the programme.

Meanwhile, members of the Pensioner Bondholders who are demanding an exemption, say they would be in Parliament to witness proceedings.