Michael Donyinah Mensah, Executive Director of the Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA), a nonpartisan, non-governmental civil society organisation, has urged President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) not to take Ghanaians’ solidarity for granted.
He reacted to the newly introduced GH¢1 Energy Sector Recovery Levy.
According to the policy analyst, the previous government was removed from office due to their recklessness, deception, and disregard for the people’s solidarity.
He stated that it is not wrong for any government to impose new taxes in order to generate revenue for the country’s development; however, the way and manner in which this new levy was implemented were appalling.
“I am not saying that the government should not introduce new taxes in order to develop the country, but the manner in which the new levy was imposed was unfortunate and deceptive.” The previous government was removed from office for deceiving, gaslighting, and taking the people for granted. Ghanaians have become wiser, and if you fail to consult with them before implementing any new tax measures, you are likely to fail or have your new measures opposed.”
He advised the government to be guided by the loud and emphatic votes it received during the elections and to avoid engaging in similar activities that would cause them to lose public support.
”The previous administration’s eight-year tenure was marked by significant challenges, necessitating a national reset that will undoubtedly incur costs. Nevertheless, when introducing a new levy, it is crucial for the government to provide a clear rationale to the citizenry, outlining the specific problems it aims to address. The Energy Sector Levy Act (ESLA) was established in 2015, yet upon assuming office, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) used it as collateral for alternative purposes. To effectively tackle the current issues, transparency is essential; therefore, the government should elucidate the rationale behind the new levy and any additional pertinent factors.”
He emphasised, “First and foremost, the move is absolutely necessary, but I believe the government failed to engage the citizens. President John Dramani Mahama has a lot of solidarity with the people, and they need to manage it well because if they don’t, it may turn against them. They did not properly engage Ghanaians about this levy, and Ghanaians believe they are being taken for granted”.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
