‘We shouldn’t stifle initiative with excessive taxation’ – Kufuor

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has called on Ghana's leaders to refrain from imposing excessive taxation that can hinder entrepreneurial spirit and the creation of wealth. In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express, he emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to utilize their talents and resources to establish successful businesses.

Kufor argued that those who legitimately earn wealth should retain their earnings while still paying fair taxes. Referring to his vision for Ghana in the future, he highlighted private enterprise as a key component. He emphasized that leadership should acknowledge the potential of Ghanaian entrepreneurs to leverage resources and generate wealth.

Kufuor urged the state to create a framework that empowers the people, allowing for the private sector to flourish and draw investment from both within and outside the country. While praising Ghana's openness and liberalism, he noted that these qualities have not yet translated into reality. Kufuor's vision also centered around inclusive governance, creating wealth to support social interventions, and ensuring that the country's resources yield better opportunities and living conditions for its citizens.

He emphasized the need to provide quality education, healthcare, and protection against poverty for all children in the country. Kufuor also highlighted Ghana's mineral wealth, including gold, lithium, bauxite, and manganese, as a foundation for prosperity. However, he stressed that the country's strengths extend beyond minerals.

He praised the Ghanaians for their ability to interact well, intermarry, and resist extremes. Furthermore, he acknowledged their capacity to learn and excel abroad. For Kufuor, effective leadership should bring together these strengths, enabling entrepreneurs to thrive, attract investment, and generate the wealth necessary to fund education, healthcare, and social protection.