The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has stated that as long as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) remains in power, Ghanaians will endure ongoing hardships.

Criticizing the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government, Mahama accused it of lacking ideas and plans to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.

"Under normal circumstances, the release of $600 million by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to the government of Ghana should provide relief to the already overburdened and suffering Ghanaian. It is, however, evident that Ghanaians will continue to suffer as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office," he added.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 24, the former President urged Ghanaians to avoid repeating mistakes from previous elections.

"Implementing VAT on electricity consumption will increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate the hardship on Ghanaians. This will affect the prices of goods, services, and transport fares."

"I agree with organised labour that the government must reverse its decision to start collecting VAT on electricity consumption."

"The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is eager and ready to address Ghana's economic challenges and provide substantial relief to Ghanaians upon assumption of office in January 2025," he posted.

Mahama emphasized the readiness of the NDC to address the country’s economic challenges for the benefit of its citizens.

Voicing concerns about the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption, he stated that it would increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate hardships on Ghanaians, affecting the prices of goods, services, and transport fares.

Mahama supported organized labor’s call for the government to reverse the decision.

Additionally, Mahama urged the government to exercise prudence in using the recently approved $600 million IMF bailout to address economic challenges. Despite the release of the first tranche last year, he contended that Ghanaians continue to endure difficulties.

The disbursement, approved on January 19, 2024, follows Ghana’s successful completion of the 2023 Article IV consultation and the first review of the Extended Credit Facility arrangement.

Expressing concern about persistent hardships, Mahama emphasized that the Akufo-Addo-led administration must ensure the judicious use of funds to bring relief to suffering citizens. He concluded that as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office, Ghanaians will continue to face challenges despite the IMF’s financial assistance.