Minority will not support over $350 million tax exemptions for NPP cronies' businesses — Ato Forson

The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has reiterated his opposition to the proposed tax exemptions worth over $350 million that would benefit ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) family and friends businesses.

Addressing Parliament in an extraordinary session called by the NPP Majority on Tuesday, September 3, Dr. Ato Forson stated clearly 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 tax payer."

The Minority Leader criticised the lack of transparency of the exemptions.

“Our position has always been that until these exemptions are converted to tax credit or linked to equity shares as stipulated in the Tax Exemptions Act, we will not support giving away over $350 million to crony businesses in an opaque and non-transparent manner," he said.

Dr. Ato Forson questioned the urgency of passing the tax relieves, arguing that Ghana's economic crisis should be the top priority.

“Ghana's economy is still bleeding, cost of living continues to be high and Ghanaians can simply not make ends meet. These are the real bread and butter issues that should concern any serious government and not the giveaway of much-needed tax revenue," the Minority Leader stated.

The outspoken lawmaker emphasized that government shouldn't focus on alleviating the suffering of Ghanaians.

“Our decisions should be people-centered. It should not be about us. It should be about the Ghanaian people. It should be Ghana First!" Dr. Ato Forson noted.