In light of a young Ghanaian’s concerns about high taxation and economic challenges, Richard Ahiagbah, the National Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), discussed the urgent issues related to the country’s tax policies.
The young citizen highlighted the difficulty of living under current financial pressures, citing an example where a young man paid GHC 450,000 in taxes to import a luxury car, while the dollar remained high.
Ahiagbah recognized these concerns and restated the NPP’s dedication to resolving the tax problem promptly. He stressed that excessive taxation is counterproductive, as it promotes tax evasion and impedes economic growth.
We oppose over-taxation because it has been shown to incentivize tax evasion,
Moreover, minimal taxation is a core principle of our ethos because it stimulates production, fostering enhanced economic activity and higher tax receipts for the government.
Reflecting on the NPP’s 2016 proposal, Ahiagbah underscored the party’s strategic pivot from taxation to production as crucial for nurturing a strong economy. He urged citizens to support Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, highlighting his ambition to streamline the current intricate tax system into a flat rate and abolish crisis-driven taxes like the e-levy, betting tax, and emissions tax. Dr. Bawumia also aims to lower import duties to bolster the competitiveness of the country’s ports.
Ahiagbah affirmed the NPP’s commitment to alleviating economic pressures on the youth and fostering a conducive environment for growth and development. He emphasized that modest taxation encourages production and stimulates greater economic activity, thereby benefiting both the government and the populace. As the election draws near, the NPP’s tax reform proposals are anticipated to be a pivotal concern for voters seeking relief from soaring living expenses and intricate tax laws. Ahiagbah’s remarks underscore the party’s dedication to these reforms and its resolve to address the concerns of Ghanaian youth.
