The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has asserted that Ghanaians will continue to endure hardships as long as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) remains in power.

Mr Mahama criticised the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government, claiming it lacks ideas and plans to improve the living conditions of ordinary Ghanaians.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 24, the former President urged Ghanaians not to repeat the mistakes of the previous two elections.

He emphasised that the NDC is prepared to address the economic challenges facing the country for the benefit of its citizens.

"Implementing VAT on electricity consumption will increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate the hardship on Ghanaians. This will affect the prices of goods, services, and transport fares."

"I agree with organised labour that the government must reverse its decision to start collecting VAT on electricity consumption."

"The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is eager and ready to address Ghana's economic challenges and provide substantial relief to Ghanaians upon assumption of office in January 2025," he posted.

Mr. Mahama is also urging the government to exercise prudence in utilizing the recently approved $600 million IMF bailout to address the economic challenges facing Ghanaians.

The disbursement, approved by the IMF Executive Board on January 19, 2024, follows Ghana's successful completion of the 2023 Article IV consultation and the first review of the 36-month Extended Credit Facility arrangement.

• Read also: Use second tranche of IMF cash judiciously – Mahama to Akufo-Addo

Expressing concern about the persistent hardships faced by Ghanaians, Mahama emphasized that the Akufo-Addo-led administration must ensure that the funds are used judiciously to bring relief to the suffering citizens.

Despite the release of the first tranche last year, Mr. Mahama contends that Ghanaians continue to endure difficulties.

"Under normal circumstances, the release of $600 million by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to the government of Ghana should provide relief to the already overburdened and suffering Ghanaian. It is, however, evident that Ghanaians will continue to suffer as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office," he added.