We will not approve tax waivers, loans - Minority

The Minority Lead­er, Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, on Monday said the NDC will oppose government’s tax waivers and loans that will put burden on the public purse.

He said the NDC would resist plans by the outgoing New Patriot­ic Party (NPP) administration to impose hardship on Ghanaians through tax waivers.

For instance, Dr Forson ques­tioned the rationale to procure a €140 million navy ship at a time when the nation was grappling with financial challenges.

He said the incoming NDC Majority side of Parliament would advance reforms and policies for the benefit of Ghanaians.

Dr. Forson who is the Member of Parliament for Ajumako-En­yan Constituency in the Central Region noted that the next NDC government would keep to fiscal discipline and ensure prudent management of the economy.

He cautioned the government from taking decisions that could impede the next NDC administra­tion from carrying out its pro­grammes.

“Mr Speaker, it is very wrong for a government that is leaving office in three weeks to commit €140 million. Mr Speaker, if it is extremely important for the State, allow the new government to carry it out. Mr Speaker, the tax exemptions before us if approved will have a fiscal burden in the next budget. So you are saying that the next government should carry your burden of $350 million, Mr Speaker, no way,” he said.

However, the Defence Minister, Mr Dominic Nitiwul, stated that the ship were crucial for the Gha­na Navy, adding that the Interna­tional Monetary Fund (IMF) had approved the government’s request to secure a loan for the purchase.

He urged his colleagues from the NDC to support the procure­ment for the Navy as they would support their office in discharging their duties.

Meanwhile, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader, raised concerns about how the NDC was going to fund its much-touted policy proposal of supplying chicks to farmers if the next government reviews e-levy and betting taxes.

While congratulating the NDC for a resounding victory in the December 7 general elections, Afenyo-Markin reminded the NDC of its promise to run a lean government by appointing 60 ministers.

The NPP Leader said his side would keep the next government on its toes to deepen Ghana’s democracy.