Former President John Dramani Mahama has accused the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of deceiving Ghanaians during the 2016 elections by promising to reduce taxes and shift the country’s focus from taxation to production.
Speaking during his campaign tour of the Ashanti Region at Nsuta-Kwamang-Beposo, Mahama emphasized that eight years into the NPP’s governance, their promises have not only gone unfulfilled but have been outright broken.
“Under the NDC, the NPP, then in opposition, made bold claims that they would reduce the burden of taxes on Ghanaians and create a more business-friendly environment. Instead, after winning the 2016 elections, they increased taxes, introducing over 54 new levies on goods and services,” Mahama said, noting that these tax hikes have had dire consequences for local businesses.
He further stated that the rise in taxes has had a stifling effect on the economy, with many Ghanaian businesses struggling to stay afloat.
International companies, Mahama pointed out, are now looking to neighboring countries like Benin and Côte d’Ivoire—countries with more favorable tax regimes—for opportunities instead of Ghana.
“Ghana’s tax system now compares poorly with our neighbors, and this is forcing international companies to look elsewhere for business. This has contributed to the ongoing economic challenges we face today,” Mahama added.
In response to these issues, Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to reducing the tax burden on Ghanaians if the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is returned to power.
He specifically mentioned the e-levy and the betting tax as two major taxes the NDC would scrap in its efforts to revitalize the economy and restore confidence among local and international investors.
“Under the NDC, we will cancel many of the burdensome taxes imposed by the NPP. We believe in creating an environment where businesses can thrive, where Ghanaians can keep more of their hard-earned money, and where the economy can be driven by production, not excessive taxation,” Mahama concluded.
His remarks were met with applause from the crowd as he pledged to continue championing the cause of the Ghanaian people throughout his campaign.
The NDC, he said, remains the party that truly understands the needs of Ghanaians and will prioritize their welfare once again.
By: Shadrack Odame Agyare | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
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