The Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has strongly criticized the government’s recent tax exemption policies and the overall state of Ghana’s economy.
Addressing the recall of Parliament, which he noted was initiated by the NPP Majority, Dr Ato Forson accused the government of attempting to fast-track tax giveaways to favoured businesses.
He contended that these exemptions, which could potentially amount to over $350 million, are not aligned with the best interests of the Ghanaian taxpayer.
“Rt. Hon Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to make these brief remarks at this emergency recall of Parliament. Rt. Hon. Speaker, let me state without any equivocation that the Minority’s position on these tax exemptions has not changed. We have always maintained that these tax exemptions are not in the best interest of the taxpayer”.
Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, MP Ajumako Enyan Essiam and Minority Leader
Dr. Ato Forson argued that such a substantial giveaway, especially in an opaque and non-transparent manner, contradicts the principles of fairness and accountability.
He proposed that any tax exemptions should be converted into tax credits or linked to equity shares, as outlined in the Tax Exemptions Act, to ensure they genuinely benefit the public rather than select cronies.
Economic Woes: A Bleeding Economy and a Struggling Cocoa Sector
The National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency did not mince words when discussing Ghana’s current economic state, lamenting over the high cost of living in the country.
He highlighted the severe financial difficulties facing ordinary Ghanaians, pointing out that the cost of living remains high and that many citizens are struggling to make ends meet.
“Ghana’s economy is still bleeding,” Dr. Forson lamented, criticizing the government for prioritizing tax exemptions over pressing economic and social issues.
The Minority Leader also expressed deep concerns over what he termed as the plight of the country’s cocoa sector, which he described as being “on its knees.”
He revealed that COCOBOD, Ghana’s main cocoa regulatory body, has been unable to secure loans from international banks, signalling a crisis in one of the country’s most vital industries.
With the prevailing price of cocoa and the exchange rate, Dr Forson argued that farmers must receive at least GHS 6,000 per bag to ensure they are fairly compensated for their hard work.
“The payment of GHS6,000 per bag of cocoa is critical because cocoa farmers deserve the benefit of their hard labour, Dr Ato Forson emphasized.
Electoral Integrity Under Scrutiny
Beyond economic issues, Dr Ato Forson raised serious concerns about the integrity of the upcoming elections, accusing the Electoral Commission of failing to maintain a credible Voter Register, citing numerous irregularities and flaws that he claimed indicate possible tampering with the database.
“We cannot vouch for the integrity of the Voters Register as it stands,” he declared, calling for a comprehensive forensic audit to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
A Call for People-Centered Governance
Concluding his remarks, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the need for Parliament to focus on the real issues affecting Ghanaians, including healthcare, education, environmental protection, and economic stability.
He urged his fellow legislators, particularly, the members of the Majority Caucus in Parliament to prioritize the needs of the people over partisan interests, advocating for a “Ghana First” approach in all parliamentary decisions.
“Ghana is in crisis,” Dr. Ato Forson stated solemnly, reflecting the somber mood of the country as it heads into a critical election period.
His speech serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the country and the need for decisive, people-centred leadership to navigate these turbulent times.
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