Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has revealed plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with all potential governments ahead of the forthcoming elections.
This initiative aims to safeguard the interests of its members and ensure that political parties fulfill their promises if elected.
GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng, speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, emphasized that, unlike in previous elections, the association now insists on having input in the development of party manifestos.
“In the past, they would formulate their own manifesto, and at the end of the campaign, they’d come and show it to us. But this election, we demanded that we want to factor our input into their manifesto because they are all potential governments,” Dr Obeng stated.
He highlighted the significance of this agreement, stressing that GUTA is determined not to be overlooked.
The Association intends to hold future governments accountable to the terms outlined in the MoU.
“We are very serious about this so that we are not taken for granted and can call the government back to order when it fails to fulfil its end of the bargain,” he added.
GUTA has been outspoken about the economic difficulties its members are experiencing, especially due to the cedi’s depreciation and escalating freight charges from Asia, which have significantly increased the cost of doing business.
The Association has called on the government to maintain the economic progress made since re-engaging with the IMF, as these gains are vital for the business community.
Dr Obeng also expressed the need for greater accountability, stating, “First, we were just building the manifesto. Then after you finish, we demand that let’s put a signature somewhere so that we can refer to it.
I think it’s fair because we have to go beyond some of these red territories and then demand proper accountability.”
GUTA’s decision to secure formal agreements with political parties highlights its commitment to safeguarding the interests of traders and ensuring that their voices are heard in the policymaking process.