Economic Challenges in Ghana Under President John Mahama
Ghana faces rising challenges under President John Mahama, including higher fuel prices, increased dumsor incidents, and escalating galamsey activities. Former staffer, Mr. Dennis Miracles Aboagye, highlighted economic struggles and growing public discontent over job losses and tuition fee issues. GUTA’s President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, indicated the need for fiscal prudence in the upcoming 2025 budget, favoring the expansion of the tax base over new taxes. The government has affirmed its commitment to economic stabilization and fulfilling its promises in the new fiscal policy document.
The current state of Ghana under President John Mahama, as depicted by former Presidential Staffer Mr. Dennis Miracles Aboagye, reveals significant challenges. Within three months of Mahama’s administration, the country struggles with rising fuel prices, frequent power outages (referred to as dumsor), and an increase in illegal small-scale mining known as galamsey. Aboagye highlights economic strains, including the dismissal of many workers and the escalating costs of goods and services.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Aboagye expressed concern that galamsey activities are intensifying due to the involvement of known NDC galamsey leaders, who confront security forces directly. He remarked on the alarming pollution levels of water bodies, stating, “Our water bodies reaching all-time high pollution.” The socio-economic landscape is further complicated as many Ghanaians have reportedly lost their jobs unjustifiably, contributing to public discontent.
Aboagye elaborated on the challenges faced by students, particularly first-year university students, who are experiencing a lack of support from the government in covering their tuition fees despite prior promises. He criticized certain civil organizations and alleged that their neutrality is questionable, claiming they are predominantly influenced by political affiliations.
In response to the economic outlook, Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), commented on the expectations for the upcoming 2025 budget. He stressed they would not be in favor of new taxes but welcomed efforts to broaden the tax base to include those currently not contributing. Obeng stated, “We’re not expecting new taxes … what we will be worried about is just compounding the taxes on a few of us who pay.”
Additionally, the Ghanaian government has officially approved the fiscal policy document for 2025, demonstrating its focus on economic stabilization and sustainable growth. Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu announced this development after a Cabinet meeting, noting the budget aims to reflect the administration’s commitments made in the past 120 days. The upcoming budget intends to address challenges inherited from the previous administration while proposing strategies for national progress.
In conclusion, Ghana is experiencing significant economic distress under President John Mahama, highlighted by rising fuel prices, job losses, and environmental degradation due to galamsey activities. The expectations surrounding the 2025 budget reflect a desire for fiscal prudence without imposing additional burdens on already taxed citizens. As the government prepares to present its fiscal policy, the emphasis appears to be on expanding the tax base and fulfilling socio-economic pledges for the nation’s development.
Original Source: 3news.com
