The Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Yohane Amarh Ashitey, has commended Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for his ambitious vision outlined during a recent address, expressing astonishment at the transformative promises made.
In an exclusive interview on the sidelines of Dr Bawumia‘s address titled “Ghana’s Next Chapter” on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, Amarh Ashitey lauded the Vice President’s pledges, describing them as both shocking and wonderful.
“I mean, this is Dr. Bawumia and I knew we were going to get an inspiring vision statement from him, but even I must admit that what he delivered is mind blowing. Far beyond inspiration, Dr. Bawumia gave us real hope that the average Ghanaian can trust in”, the MCE said in an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the address.
Among the key announcements made by Vice President Bawumia was the intention to scrap the controversial e-levy, which has burdened the less privileged in society by taxing their means of transferring money. Additionally, he pledged to reform and refocus the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to broaden the tax net, addressing the current imbalance where only a few taxpayers shoulder the burden of the populace.
Dr. Bawumia criticized the archaic tax regime inherited from colonial masters, highlighting existing loopholes that have resulted in substantial uncollected tax revenue, amounting to approximately GHC24 billion. He emphasized that closing these loopholes would alleviate the need for future IMF bailouts.
The Vice President further announced plans to abolish the proposed 15% tax on electricity, emission tax, and the betting tax, which has been a source of discontent among Ghanaian youth.
Despite criticisms from some quarters, particularly the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing Dr. Bawumia of populism, Amarh Ashitey defended the Vice President, asserting that his actions demonstrate independence from the current government’s policies.
“We are seeing a vintage Dr. Bawumia who disagreed with many of the policies that were adopted by cabinet now asserting his own point of view on these issues,” Amarh Ashitey remarked. He added that Dr. Bawumia’s decision to abolish contentious taxes reflects his genuine commitment to the welfare of Ghanaians.
The MCE concluded by stating that Dr. Bawumia’s visionary plans signal a new era of leadership characterized by bold decision-making and a focus on addressing the needs of ordinary citizens.