Timber operators, phone dealers, and mechanics in New Juaben South have voiced their concerns over the deteriorating state of their businesses under the current administration, citing excessive taxes, restrictive permits, and rising costs as major issues.
Their grievances have led to a unified endorsement of the opposition NDC and its presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama.
The over 400 timber market operators reported ongoing harassment and permit denials from the Forestry Commission, which they argue have severely impacted their livelihoods.
Phone dealers in Koforidua also raised alarms about high import duties ,infiltration by foreigners and frequent police actions against the sale of refurbished phones, accusing authorities of targeting them unjustly.
Meanwhile, mechanics at Koforidua Ada Magazine are struggling with the escalating costs of spare parts, making it difficult for customers to afford their services.
The declarations of support were made during a recent visit by NDC National Youth Organizer George Opare Addo, who was accompanied by the party’s New Juaben South Parliamentary candidate, Dr. Martin Offei Otu, and other party executives.
The delegation engaged with local business groups as part of preparations for the upcoming “24-Hour Economy Walk” scheduled for today in Koforidua.
During the engagement, the National Youth a Organizer of NDC George Opare Addo assured business owners that John Dramani Mahama’s administration would address their concerns by removing nuisance taxes and reducing import duties.
He emphasized that the “24-Hour Economy” policy would transform the business landscape by providing a more favorable environment for operations and creating job opportunities.
Dr. Martin Offei Otu further pledged to collaborate with investors to enhance the timber industry by developing additional wood products from sawdust, aiming to provide new sources of income for operators.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
