The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has stated that the current government is to blame for the economic difficulties facing Ghanaians.

The former president claimed during his speech at the 9th Ghana CEO Network Business Cocktail that his 24-hour economy policy will provide relief to the aggrieved Ghanaians who are paying unnecessary taxes.

“Undoubtedly, the economic catastrophe we face is self-inflicted and caused by this government. However, for the sake of Ghanaians and the future of our dear country, we cannot allow the status quo to continue,” Mahama lamented.

He continued by saying that the heavy taxes in the 2024 budget, which was approved on Thursday, December 7, “will further whittle away the capital of Ghanaian businesses and hinder their competitiveness.” For this reason, he said, he is ready to put his 24-hour economy policy into action in order to salvage and revitalize what would remain of the current government after he is elected president.

Meanwhile, the 2024 budget and financial estimates of the government presented to parliament have introduced, yet again, a raft of taxes that will only add to a list of already burdensome taxes. These taxes, combined with very high interest rates, will further whittle away the capital of Ghanaian businesses and hinder their competitiveness.

“As flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, I have put forth several proposals to ensure that the economy is returned to a stable footing and that economic activity is expanded for job creation and growth.”

Mahama also promised that strict fiscal restraint will be a priority for the next NDC administration in an effort to reduce state spending.

“I have committed the future NDC government to stringent enforcement of prudence and fiscal discipline in public financial management. Government expenditure will be cut and streamlined by significantly reducing the number of overlapping agencies and amorphous creations of this NPP administration.”