In a recent outburst, Ghanaian youth have expressed their deep dissatisfaction with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government following comments made by Dr. Mohammed Amin Adams, the former Finance Minister under President Nana Akufo-Addo. During a press conference to discuss the 2025 “Asomdwie Budget,” Dr. Amin claimed that while the NPP government introduced a betting tax, it had not collected any revenue from it. This statement ignited a firestorm of anger among the youth, who feel misled by the government’s fiscal policies.
The reaction was swift and vehement, as young Ghanaians took to social media and the streets to voice their outrage. Many labelled Dr. Amin’s assertion is not only misleading but also a blatant lie that undermined the struggles of ordinary citizens. Youth groups pointed out that the introduction of the betting tax by the NPP was one of the reasons they lost the 2024 general elections. The new National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, under H.E. John Dramani Mahama won the elections and subsequently scrapped the betting tax in their first budget, the “Asomdwie Budget.””
“Dr. Amin’s comments are infuriating,” said Kwame Yeboah, a representative of the Coalition of Youth for Accountability. “It shows a complete lack of understanding of the realities we face. The NPP introduced a tax that burdened us, and now they claim they did not collect it? Instead of taking responsibility, they engage in what we can only describe as a ‘concert’ of mismanagement.”
The sentiment was echoed by many on social media following the press conference. Placards reading “Stop the Lies” and “We Demand Accountability” were prominently displayed, signalling the youth’s collective frustration with what they perceive as a government out of touch with their needs.
The youth expressed concern that the NPP leadership has been more focused on political theatre than on addressing pressing issues such as youth unemployment, rising living costs, and inadequate public services. “While they play their political games, we are left to fend for ourselves,” said Sarah Mensah, a university student who participated in the protests. “The leaders need to stop this concert of deception and start taking us seriously.”
As the protests gained momentum, several youth leaders issued a warning to NPP officials: any further comments that dismiss the significance of the betting tax issue would not be taken lightly. “We will not stand idly by while our leaders trivialize the importance of our contributions to the economy,” warned Kofi Asante, a member of the Youth Alliance for Change. “If they think they can continue to lie to us without facing consequences, they are gravely mistaken.”
Dr. Amin’s comments have cast a shadow over the NPP’s credibility, particularly among younger voters who feel increasingly disenfranchised. The youth’s anger is not just about the betting tax; it is a culmination of years of unfulfilled promises and perceived neglect from a government that once inspired hope for economic growth and development.
In light of the NDC’s decision to scrap the betting tax, many young people have expressed their support for the current administration, feeling that it represents a more responsive government. In response to the outcry, some NPP officials have attempted to distance themselves from Dr. Amin’s remarks emphasize their commitment to transparency and accountability. However, the damage may have already been done.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the NPP will respond to the growing discontent among Ghanaian youth. For now, one thing is clear: the call for accountability and genuine engagement with the youth is louder than ever, and the NPP must take heed of the voices rising in protest. The message is unequivocal: the era of political concerts is over, and it’s time for real dialogue and action.
Source: ghanaiandemocrat.com