CDM to Mahama: Live Up to the ideals you professed

CDM Critiques President Mahama Over COVID-19 Levy

The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has criticized President John Dramani Mahama. They claim he failed to abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy.

In a press statement on May 11, 2025, the CDM accused Mahama of breaching public trust. He had promised to eliminate this levy during his 2024 campaign.

The CDM urged him to choose integrity over convenience. They want his legacy to reflect moral courage and leadership.

A Broken Promise

The COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy was introduced as a temporary measure during the pandemic. Citizens and economists have long criticized it as burdensome.

Mahama pledged to abolish the tax if elected. He called it a "needless tax" at campaign rallies and debates.

This promise gave Ghanaians hope amid rising inflation and economic distress. However, since taking office, Mahama's administration has kept the levy due to IMF conditions.

The CDM described this situation as unacceptable and unconscionable. They believe what was once a principle is now an excuse for political expediency.

Betrayal of Trust

The failure to fulfill this promise is seen as a moral failure. The CDM argues it undermines democratic governance's ethical foundations.

They stated that abandoning this promise is not just policy change; it's betrayal of trust. Promises in governance are commitments that should be honored.

A president who breaks promises risks becoming a symbol of expediency rather than principle.

Legal Obligations

The CDM pointed out constitutional obligations regarding citizens' rights. Article 36(1) of Ghana’s Constitution mandates promoting good health care and decent living standards.

They argue that maintaining the levy contradicts these responsibilities in today's economy.

Additionally, they referenced Ghana’s commitment to international agreements like ICESCR. These agreements require using resources to realize citizens’ economic rights.

Maintaining a regressive tax affects the poor disproportionately, which violates these commitments.

Demands from CDM

To address these issues, the CDM made three demands:

1. Present a clear plan to Parliament for abolishing the COVID-19 levy quickly.
2. Publicly apologize for failing to keep the campaign promise.
3. Reaffirm commitment to transparent and accountable governance through new policies.

Continuing to collect this levy while citing IMF conditions is contradictory, according to the group. It disrespects citizens who trusted this government with power.

Quoting an African proverb, they reminded: “The axe forgets; the tree remembers.” While politicians may forget promises, Ghanaians remember every word.

The Centre urged President Mahama to honor his word by abolishing the COVID-19 levy immediately. This action would help restore faith in his leadership and democracy in Ghana.