By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Emmanuel Tornyi
Published on 2024-01-23 16:45:00
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been instructed to work with ECG and NEDCO to transfer collected revenues as part of domestic VAT collections. This move has been met with strong opposition from TUC, led by Secretary General Dr. Yaw Baah, who highlighted its adverse effects on the livelihoods of ordinary Ghanaians, particularly pensioners and low-income earners.
At a press conference on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, Dr. Baah emphasized, “We cannot allow poor people, including pensioners, to bear the brunt. Our message to the government is clear: we cannot pay VAT on electricity.” He went on to state, “We will not pay it today or tomorrow. Organised Labour is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the letter, and another directive from the Finance Minister to Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), ECG to stop the implementation of the VAT on electricity. We are giving the government, up to January 31, 2024, to withdraw the letter.”
Dr. Baah further indicated that the TUC will advise themselves if the finance minister fails to direct GRIDCo and ECG to withdraw the letter.
Additionally, the opposition from the TUC raises concerns about the impact of the VAT on electricity on the most vulnerable members of society. Should the government fail to withdraw the directive, it could lead to further unrest and dissatisfaction among the populace.
The demand for immediate action reflects the urgency and gravity of the situation, with pressure being exerted on the government to reconsider its decision. The coordinated effort of various organizations and stakeholders to voice their opposition emphasizes the extent of concern and dissatisfaction with the implementation of the VAT on electricity.
In conclusion, the directive from the GRA to transfer collected revenues as part of domestic VAT collections has sparked strong opposition from the TUC, highlighting the potential negative impact on the most vulnerable members of society. The government has been given a deadline to withdraw the directive, and failure to do so may lead to further unrest and dissatisfaction among the populace.
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