Smauel Okudzeto Ablakwa has claimed that on Friday, March 31, 2023, the National Democratic Congress caucus in parliament prevented the administration from obtaining approval for two loans.
The North Tongu MP said that the minority prevented the approval of two loan agreements totaling US$210 million on Friday because the government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is addicted to borrowing.
In a Facebook post he said, “The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/Ofori-Atta government is notoriously incorrigible. Despite plunging Ghana into debt distress and bankruptcy, they are still chronically addicted to borrowing. I commend NDC MPs for mounting Friday’s successful blockade of these US$150million and US$60million loan requests. Ghana First.”
On the other hand, after a lengthy session on Friday, the parliament approved three additional tax measures. The government has previously indicated that the tax laws are necessary in order to help the government finish processes for the about $3 billion IMF deal and improve the revenue condition of the country.
The bills were introduced in Parliament as part of the government’s efforts to mobilise domestic revenue of around 4 billion Ghana cedis each year. The House finally passed the Growth and Sustainability Amendment Bill, 2022, in the third reading stage.
To do this, the government plans to put a 20% tax on e-cigarettes, fruit drinks, and other items. After a headcount, the excise duty was passed with 137 for the majority and 136 for the minority. In addition, the Income Tax Amendment Bill of 2022 was approved on third reading.
Check out his post below
Source – Tru News Report
