NPP Youth Organiser hints at demonstration over cocoa price, VAT and jobs

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) youth organiser, Abanga Yakubu Fuseini, has suggested a demonstration to address issues of accountability, job creation, and the rising cost of living. In a Facebook post, Mr Fuseini announced the protest, titled "Y3GYE Y3 SIKA Demo," which translates to "We are taking our money." He urged Transport Minister Kofi Adams and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to explain their decisions regarding public funds.

Additionally, Mr Fuseini questioned the decrease in the cocoa producer price, noting that farmers are receiving GH¢2,600 instead of the expected GH¢3,100. He pointed out that rising fuel costs, hostel fee challenges for students, and financial difficulties for businesses are contributing to economic hardships among Ghanaians. Furthermore, Mr Fuseini criticized the proposed 20% value-added tax (VAT) on digital services, arguing that it would place an additional burden on those who use social media and other digital platforms for work and income generation.

He also questioned the government's commitment to its 24-hour economy policy, which aims to generate jobs through a three-shift system involving three workers. The youth organiser emphasized that the planned demonstration would be peaceful and aimed at holding officials accountable, creating employment opportunities, and providing economic relief.

He assured that arrests would not deter the calls for answers or distract from the demand for public officials to account for the use of public funds.