‘How can we trust them with our economy?’ – Afenyo-Markin alleges wrong image on new GH¢50 note

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has challenged the government’s economic management credentials, questioning how it can be trusted to deliver on its financial promises after an alleged error in the portrait featured on the redesigned GH¢50 banknote.

Afenyo-Markin made the remarks while speaking to journalists after Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday, November 12.

He accused the government of prioritising the removal of the images of Ghana’s Big Six from the currency over the careful execution of the redesign, which he said had resulted in the wrong portrait being used for Theodosia Okoh.

“They were in haste to erase the Big Six from our currency and our history. Out of that haste and hate, we saw them outdooring a new cedi note bearing the name of Theodosia Okoh,” he said.

The Minority Leader argued that the alleged discrepancy raised questions about the government’s attention to detail and its ability to manage more complex national economic responsibilities.

“So the question is, a whole government machinery that cannot be diligent enough to get the right picture to put on our currency, how can we trust them with our economy?” he asked.

He also questioned whether the administration could translate its economic plans into tangible improvements in the lives of Ghanaians.

“Can we trust them to put money in our pocket?” he added.

The Bank of Ghana has introduced redesigned cedi banknotes under the Cedi Heritage Series, with the new notes scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.

The redesigned currency features national heroes, historical sites, monuments and Adinkra symbols, as part of efforts to reflect Ghana’s heritage and identity.

Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan is among the personalities featured, with his portrait appearing on the new GH¢100 note.

The Bank of Ghana has also highlighted improvements to the notes, including enhanced security features, reinforced cotton paper for greater durability and a smaller size for easier handling.

The central bank has clarified that existing banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the redesigned notes after their introduction.

Afenyo-Markin’s criticism comes as the government seeks to advance its economic agenda through the 2027 Budget, which includes the proposed US$10 billion New Economy, New Ghana: Jobs and Prosperity programme.

The four-year initiative, scheduled to run from 2027 to 2030, is designed to support domestic production, expand manufacturing and create employment through investments in eight priority areas, including agriculture, energy, critical minerals, tourism, textiles, pharmaceuticals and technology.