Minority vows to block new taxes, cites hardship on Ghanaians

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has declared its firm opposition to any attempt by the government to introduce new taxes or levies, arguing that Ghanaians are already struggling with economic hardship and cannot withstand additional financial burdens.

The position was announced during a media briefing by the Minority leadership on Friday, May 22, where members addressed several national economic and governance concerns.

Speaking on behalf of the caucus, Patricia Appiagyei criticised the government over what she described as inconsistencies in the taxation policies of the governing National Democratic Congress since assuming office in January 2025.

According to Mrs Appiagyei, although the Minority supports genuine efforts to improve fiscal discipline, reduce wasteful expenditure, and strengthen economic management, the measures implemented so far have failed to provide meaningful relief to citizens facing difficult economic conditions.

She argued that while the government has announced several reforms intended to improve economic efficiency and curb waste, implementation has been slow and largely symbolic, with little direct impact on the daily struggles of ordinary Ghanaians.

“The Minority welcomes genuine efforts to cut waste, but reforms so far appear too slow and largely cosmetic. Ghanaians are taxed enough, and the Minority reiterates its firm position of no new taxes on an already burdened citizenry,” she stated.

Mrs Appiagyei further stressed that the country’s current economic situation requires policies that reduce pressure on households and businesses rather than introducing additional taxes and levies that could worsen the cost-of-living challenges facing citizens.

She also accused the NDC government of contradicting positions it held while in opposition, noting that the party had previously criticised several taxes under earlier administrations but has since introduced new levies after taking office.

According to the Deputy Minority Leader, such actions undermine public confidence and contradict campaign promises made to Ghanaians ahead of the 2024 general elections.

The Minority maintained that government should focus more on reducing inefficiencies, tackling corruption, improving revenue mobilisation through compliance, and promoting economic growth instead of increasing the tax burden on citizens and businesses.

The caucus further called for prudent expenditure management and stronger accountability measures to restore confidence in the country’s economic direction.