It is troubling Ghanaians in Diaspora unable to vote - Union petitions presidential candidates

The Ghanaian Diaspora Union in Europe (GDUE) has submitted a petition to all presidential candidates, calling for urgent attention to key issues affecting Ghanaians living abroad.

The petition, representing the voices of over 5,800 members across Europe, highlights the challenges faced by diaspora members and emphasizes the critical role they play in national development.

Signed by Ibrahim Isshak, President of GDUE, the petition outlines several pressing concerns, including high import duties, customs harassment, mistreatment at Kotoka International Airport, the high cost of passport processing for Ghanaians abroad, and the inability of diaspora members to vote in national elections.

One of the most significant issues raised is the high import duties and taxes levied at Ghana’s ports.

According to GDUE, these exorbitant fees are crippling businesses run by diaspora members, discouraging trade and entrepreneurship.

The union is calling for a 50% reduction in import duties and the removal of numerous additional charges, such as the Special Import Levy, Network Charge, and Covid-19 Recovery Levy, which they argue are hindering economic growth.

“Our members are gravely concerned about the excessive import duties and taxes at Ghanaian ports of entry. These exorbitant charges are crippling many businesses, forcing several of our members out of business.

“These measures, instead of fostering growth, are stifling trade and entrepreneurship among the diaspora community, who seek to contribute to Ghana’s economy.

“Hence, we respectfully request your assurance of reduction of import duties to a minimum of 50% of its current rate, stabilization of the import duties of which it does not flatulate against foreign currencies, and removal of nuance taxes,” the president said.

The petition also draws attention to the harassment and extortion by customs officers.

GDUE claims that even after goods are cleared at the port, some customs officers continue to allegedly demand bribes from importers under the threat of seizing their goods.

A key issue highlighted in the petition is the inability of Ghanaians in the diaspora to participate in national elections from abroad.

GDUE stressed that voting is a fundamental right, and they are calling on presidential candidates to prioritize measures that will allow diaspora voting in future elections, as enshrined in the constitution.

The union is urging immediate reforms to address these illegal practices, which they believe are deterring further investments from the diaspora community.

“It is deeply troubling that Ghanaians living in the diaspora are unable to participate in national elections from our respective countries of residence.

“As citizens, voting is our fundamental right, and we urge your government to prioritize measures to ensure that diaspora voting becomes a reality, as enshrined in our constitution."

AM/KA

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