The New Patriotic Party Minority Caucus is advocating for a more inclusive and evidence-based approach to policy-making, emphasising the need for stakeholder engagement and data-driven decision-making.

“We expect that when we raise issues in parliament, they are backed by credible data and stakeholder engagement,” Mr Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader said on Tuesday.

Mr Afenyo-Markin made the remarks when the Minority Caucus engaged with the Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA).

He explained that the Caucus had been engaging with key stakeholders, including the Ghana Traders Union Association (GUTA) and now GEA, to push for reforms in areas such as VAT administration, gold trading, and private sector growth.

“We are passionate about creating a favorable business environment, and our engagement with stakeholders like GEA will help shape policies that work for Ghana,” he said.

The Minority Caucus also called for reforms to the GoldBod Act, citing concerns about regulatory roles, trader roles, and the current structure’s flaws.

“We are open to inputs from stakeholders like GLS and others in the value chain.

“A private member’s bill could be a way to push for amendments if the current government isn’t receptive,” Mr Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Ranking on the Economy and Development Committee of Parliament, said.

The Caucus’s emphasis on stakeholder engagement was welcomed by businesses who hoped that it would lead to more effective and sustainable policies.

“It’s great to see the Minority Caucus pushing for policy reforms that benefit local businesses and promote private sector growth.

Nana Dr Emmauel Adu Sarkordie Afriyie, the President of GEA said they looked forward to continued engagement and collaboration.