Saturday, March 7, 2026
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Minority Leader questions government’s tax and social policy direction

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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has condemned the government’s handling of social interventions and taxation, describing its policy direction as inconsistent and warning that several flagship programmes are yet to deliver meaningful results.

Speaking to journalists during a parliamentary leadership briefing ahead of the resumption of Parliament, Mr Afenyo-Markin said the administration’s economic and social policies lacked coherence at a time when businesses and households were looking for clarity and relief.

According to him, a number of government initiatives were already showing signs of strain by the close of 2025, raising concerns about sustainability and execution.

He argued that despite the National Democratic Congress’ sharp criticism of the previous administration while in opposition, expectations of a clear break in policy direction have not yet materialised nearly a year into office.

“Apart from the GoldBod, which has helped stabilise the cedi, we have not seen major improvements in other sectors like agriculture,” he said. “Even flagship programmes such as the 24-Hour Economy have yet to produce substantial results.”

While acknowledging the recent stability of the currency, the Minority Leader maintained that broader economic gains must extend beyond exchange rates to job creation, private sector growth and stronger social support systems.

He urged the government to articulate a more comprehensive framework on taxation and economic growth, arguing that frequent policy shifts and unclear interventions risk undermining investor confidence.

“We believe the approach to social interventions and taxation has been incoherent,” he said. “The honeymoon period is over. Ghanaians expect results and a clear alternative path for the private sector.”

His comments reflect growing political pressure on the government to translate macroeconomic improvements into everyday economic relief. Analysts note that while indicators such as inflation and interest rates have eased in recent months, the real test lies in whether reforms spur production, lower the cost of doing business and create employment opportunities.

With Parliament set to reconvene, debates over taxation, spending priorities and private sector support are expected to dominate the legislative agenda.

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