Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, strongly disapproves of the NPP Majority’s decision to recall Parliament to expedite tax incentives.
The recall, which occurred on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, has been criticized by Forson as an attempt by the NPP Majority to secure tax breaks for their businesses just months before the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.
In his address at the start of the extraordinary parliamentary session, Forson argued that the recall was driven by the NPP Majority’s interest in fast-tracking tax incentives amounting to over $350 million rather than addressing pressing economic concerns.
He emphasized that such tax exemptions should not be prioritized when the country grapples with a strained economy and high cost of living.
“Rt. Hon. Speaker, the decision to grant tax exemptions worth over $350 million is not an urgent matter that justifies a parliamentary recall,” Forson stated.
“Ghana’s economy is distressed, and citizens struggle to make ends meet. The focus should be on alleviating ordinary Ghanaians’ economic hardships, not giving away vital tax revenues.”
Forson reiterated the Minority’s stance that these tax exemptions are not in the best interest of the average Ghanaian.
He called for the exemptions to be converted into tax credits or linked to equity shares by the existing tax exemptions law.
“The NDC Minority’s position on these tax exemptions remains unchanged. We will not support allocating $350 million to businesses through a process that lacks transparency and accountability,” Forson added.
The call for a recall has raised concerns about the timing and motivations behind the move, with critics suggesting it may be an attempt to benefit specific businesses ahead of the elections.
