Former Auditor-General, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, has accused the government of abandoning its commitment to transition Ghana’s economy from taxation to production, instead intensifying economic hardships on citizens.

Speaking at a public forum on “Curbing Illicit Financial Flows Through Accountable Governance: The Role of Media,” Mr. Domelevo sharply criticised government policies, alleging they have shifted from mere taxation to outright “robbery.”

“Recently, I remarked that we were promised this country is moving from taxation to production, but we have moved from taxation to robbery,” he stated.

He continued that: “Now the government is aiming at any money in your pocket. You put your savings there, and the government is aiming at it.”

Mr. Domelevo highlighted the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) as a glaring example, arguing that it unfairly targeted the savings of Ghanaians and undermined confidence in public financial management.

“What pains me the most is after all this, the use to which they put the money. That is my biggest challenge,” he lamented, underscoring concerns about the lack of transparency in public expenditure.

He also raised alarm over the potential risks to Treasury bills, cautioning that they could be next if current economic policies persist. Treasury bills have long been considered a secure investment option for many Ghanaians.

The former Auditor-General’s critique comes amidst a broader public debate on Ghana’s economic policies, debt management strategies, and efforts to curb illicit financial flows.

Mr. Domelevo called for urgent reforms, stronger governance measures, and enhanced financial transparency to restore public trust and safeguard citizens’ interests.