Click to read all about coronavirus →
Former President John Dramani Mahama has asked the government to tap into the Stabilization Fund to support the economy and cushion many who are suffering as a result of the two-weeks lockdown.
His position is in line with the Minority in Parliament and the opposition National Democratic Congress who are averse to government touching the Heritage Fund to fight the disease that has caused the death of five persons in Ghana as of March 30.
Even though parliament has approved $35-million financing agreement for the Ghana COVID-19 Emergency Preparedness and Response Project as well as many institutions contributing to the Covid-19 National Trust Fund, more funds are needed to overcome the virus that about 204 have tested positive in Ghana.
The global infection has exceeded one million with over 50,000 dying of the disease.
In a statement which touched on a wide range of issues, former President Mahama indirectly advised his successor not to use the Heritage Fund to revitalize the economy in the midst of Covid-19 pandemic.
“The well-intentioned lockdown has obviously led to some unintended consequences and I believe it is time to utilize the Stabilization Fund to build some additional buffers for the economy.
“The use of the fund should be directed at cushioning the general population through this period of economic slowdown. These measures may include short term temporary tariff relief in respect of utilities.”
Mr. Mahama among others called for the suspension of the Communication Service Tax, waiver of petroleum taxes to support commercial drivers in particular as well as taking a critical look at the needs of health workers with regards to personal protective equipment.
Source: ghanaweb.com
