‘If 2.6 million jobs have been created, we should see corresponding rise in tax-paying citizens’ – Bokpin

In response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s claim of creating 2.6 million jobs under the current administration, renowned economist Godfred Bokpin has voiced skepticism, emphasizing the need for reliable data to substantiate the figure.

Speaking to Alfred Ocansey on the KeyPoints on November 9, Bokpin expressed concerns about the lack of clear data sources to back the claim, urging a focus on job-rich growth strategies that directly translate to employment opportunities.

“I hold a different view,” he remarked, noting the importance of moving beyond the traditional assumption that economic growth automatically translates to job creation.

“The idea of trickle-down employment has not worked as expected, which is why economic policies need to be intentional in promoting job-rich growth.”

Bokpin argued that for claims of extensive job creation to be credible, they should reflect not only in labor statistics but also in tax records.

“If 2.6 million jobs have indeed been created, we should see a corresponding rise in tax-paying citizens,” he said, highlighting the Ghana Revenue Authority’s data that currently places the active personal income taxpayers at around 2.3 million.

While acknowledging the Vice President’s contributions and the growth in Ghana’s economy, Bokpin remained unconvinced about the claimed job figures.

“Based on verifiable data and sources of information on unemployment and employment response to growth, I think we are not there yet,” he added.

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By Christabel Success Treve

The post ‘If 2.6 million jobs have been created, we should see corresponding rise in tax-paying citizens’ – Bokpin first appeared on 3News.

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