Don’t politicize GHS600m for SME’s – GUTA to Govt

Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has appealed to the public not to politicize the disbursement of the 600million Ghana cedis earmarked for the support of SMEs.

The Association made this known in a press statement signed by its General Secretary, Alpha A. Shaban.

President Akufo Addo in his address to the nation mentioned that government will make available 600 million Ghana cedis for SMEs to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their businesses.

According to the group this is a critical national issue that should be devoid of partisan politics.

‘Concerning the 600million Ghana cedis earmarked for the support of SMEs, we would appeal to the government to include leadership of the trade Associations on the committee(s) that will oversee the disbursement of the fund to the rightful beneficiaries and it should be done in fair, transparent and equitable manner, devoid of partisan politics.’

‘In similar vein, we will appeal to the pubilc not to do politics with this critical National issue but to cooperate with the leadership of the country to see Ghana out of the doldrums.’ – the statement read

GUTA further urged for the support of all Ghanaians to help government fight the virus and return life back to normalcy.

The group also advised persons who will benefit from government’s alleviation program to use the money for what it is intended for.

“ We would also entreat whoever happens to benefit from the package to endeavour to use the money for the purpose it is intended so as to be able to pay back as may be arranged and agreed by the authorities.”

The statement added that strict compliance with the payment of the monies will aid the association in lobbying for the ‘sustenance of the package as a revolving fund for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future generations.’