The Daily Graphic is worried about the disbursement of mineral royalties to mining communities. It says this has also affected the completion of projects at the University of Mines and Technology, UMAT, in Tarkwa. The paper is at a loss as to how the Minerals Development Fund lacks cash for disbursement. It says the situation is sometimes fuelled by the lack of transparency in the utilisation of mining revenues and improper accounting. The paper notes that at the heart of the challenge, is the absence of a Mineral Management Revenue Act which will hold government accountable and make it responsible in the utilisation of mining revenue.
The Ghanaian Times shares the view that another look should be taken at the taxes and levies on fuel, with the aim of reducing the adverse effects on the cost of living. This is against the backdrop of rising fuel prices, caused by both global and local factors including geopolitical conflicts, national disasters, inflation and depreciation of the cedi. The paper acknowledges that not all taxes and levies can be removed as some of them are needed for development. It however appeals to government to ameliorate the suffering of Ghanaians by absorbing some of the taxes.
The Today Newspaper says the admission by President Akufo-Addo that times are hard in Ghana is the mark of a good leader. It says it is rare for sitting Presidents to boldly concede that things are difficult. The paper therefore urges government to heed the advice of the Think Tank IMANI. This include cutting down on the size of government and shelving the creation of new regions. The Today Newspaper says the President must not be in a hurry to implement campaign promises, but postpone the ones earmarked for this year to next year. It believes government must employ prudent measures to manage the situation.
