'We only corrected a miscommunication' — Agric Minister dismisses rift with Finance Minister
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has dismissed claims of a rift between his ministry and the Ministry of Finance over recent budget figures relating to agricultural expenditure.
His clarification follows public controversy over claims that the Finance Ministry had released GH¢1.677 billion to support agricultural activities, a figure the Agriculture Ministry disputes as inconsistent with official budget documents.
The disagreement had sparked rumors about possible sabotage between the two ministries, with claims that the two ministers are planning to contest the National Democratic Congress flagbearer slot.
However, speaking to journalists in Accra on Friday, June 19, Mr Opoku said there was no conflict between the two institutions, only a misunderstanding that had been clarified.
“We don't have any disagreement with the Ministry of Finance. Let me state this clearly. There is no disagreement. We are working as a group,” he said.
He stressed that what occurred was a matter of miscommunication rather than policy or operational disagreement.
“There was miscommunication, and there was the need for us to clarify the issues. We clarify them, and we are working together. There is no way we can disagree,” he added.
Mr Opoku further argued that government ministries are aligned in their broader objective of national development and should not be portrayed as being in conflict.
He said both ministries remain focused on delivering government programmes without internal disruption.