Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has praised Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson following the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review, saying he appreciates the minister’s commitment to prudent management of the country’s finances.

In a social media post on Friday, Mr Cudjoe said he remained unfazed by criticism he had received for openly commending the Finance Minister’s stewardship of the economy.

“I’m grateful to all who insulted me for speaking highly of Finance Minister Ato Forson’s unmatched dedication—not only to build on the more stable economy that he and his team have curated, but also to ensure that our money is safe with him,” he wrote.

Mr Cudjoe contrasted the current administration’s handling of public finances with that of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, accusing it of reckless spending and poor accountability.

“He promises not to recklessly devalue its worth, give us unidentifiable financial haircuts, spend on frivolous and fraudulent projects like the faithless Cathedral, run away from accountability, or be called a brave coward,” he stated.

The policy analyst further described Dr Ato Forson and his economic team as “THE MEN,” while taking a swipe at some members of the opposition.

“Ato is the real man-along with his great team are THE MEN!! Not the Sankwa’s Area Boys, who are now lotto forecasters.”

He concluded by saying the criticism directed at him only strengthened his resolve.

“I’m sorry, guys… keep your insults coming—they motivate me. KOKLOVIWO.”

Mr Cudjoe’s comments come a day after Dr Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review to Parliament, outlining what the government described as steady progress in stabilising the economy and improving key macroeconomic indicators.

In the review, the Finance Minister reported that inflation had continued its downward trend, the cedi had remained relatively stable against major trading currencies, and the country’s gross international reserves had improved significantly. He also highlighted stronger domestic revenue mobilisation and renewed investor confidence, attributing the gains to fiscal discipline and ongoing economic reforms.

Dr Ato Forson told Parliament that the government would maintain expenditure controls while prioritising investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and social protection. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and assured Ghanaians that public resources would be managed transparently to sustain the country’s economic recovery.

The budget statement has generated mixed reactions, with supporters hailing it as evidence of improving economic management, while critics have questioned whether the reported gains are being felt by ordinary Ghanaians. Franklin Cudjoe’s endorsement has therefore added another prominent voice to the ongoing debate over the government’s economic performance.