In a striking condemnation of the current administration, Kwame Awuah-Darko, a leading figure in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has sharply criticized President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia for their handling of Ghana’s tax revenues.
Awuah-Darko’s remarks come in the wake of Asantehene Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu Ababio II’s recent appeal for financial assistance to renovate the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital(KATH), a critical government facility in Kumasi.
A Stark Comparison of Tax Revenues
Speaking in an interview with Kojo Marfo on AbusuaNkommo at ABUSUA965FM, Awuah-Darko pointed out a glaring disparity in fiscal management between the current government and its predecessors.
He noted that while the Mills/Mahama administration collected approximately Ghc280 billion in taxes in eight years, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration has amassed over Ghc1.2 trillion taxes during its tenure.
This staggering increase in tax revenue raises questions about the effectiveness of current governance.
“Under the administration of the NDC, there was never a time when Otumfuo had to beg for funds to renovate Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital,” Awuah-Darko stated. “Yet today, despite collecting enormous sums from Ghanaians, we find ourselves in a situation where our traditional leaders are appealing for help to maintain essential healthcare facilities.”
Implications for Ghanaians
Awuah-Darko urged Ghanaians to reflect on the implications of their voting choices, emphasizing that “voting has consequences.”
Awuah-Darko emphasized that the government’s inability to manage resources has led to a dire situation where funds are urgently needed for essential services.
He quizzed “I’m asking why someone who collected GHc280 billion never allowed the country to sink to this level, yet someone who collected over GHc1.2 trillion has left us begging for money”.
He expressed concern that the current administration’s fiscal policies have led to a state of financial distress, stating, “We cannot even pay the debts we owe.”
He called on citizens to be vigilant and informed as they approach the upcoming elections, advocating for a collective “reset” of priorities to ensure that Ghana does not continue down this troubling path.
“Ghanaians should be wise and have their eyes clear in this coming election. It’s time for us to reset our minds and reset Ghana”, Awuah Darko stated.
A Call to Action
As Ghana prepares for its next electoral cycle, Awuah-Darko’s comments resonate with many who are frustrated by the perceived mismanagement of public funds.
His call for accountability and responsible governance serves as a reminder of the critical role that effective leadership plays in addressing the needs of citizens and maintaining vital public services.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Kwadwo Owusu
