We’ll scrap e-levy, betting tax with our new ‘Majority’ status – Ato Forson
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has vowed to use its newly declared “majority status” in Parliament to ease the tax burden on Ghanaians.
The party’s Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced plans to scrap controversial taxes, including the Electronic Transfers Levy (E-Levy) and betting taxes.
During a press conference on Sunday, following Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant, Dr. Ato Forson emphasized the NDC’s commitment to eliminating what he referred to as “nuisance taxes.”
He assured Ghanaians that the party would work swiftly to reverse the policies that have contributed to economic hardships under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
Dr. Ato Forson reiterated that the NDC’s strengthened position in Parliament would enable them to push through measures aimed at alleviating the financial pressures faced by ordinary citizens.
The NDC leader reaffirmed the party’s dedication to prioritising the removal of taxes that have caused widespread dissatisfaction and economic strain, signaling a clear shift in the party’s legislative agenda.
“It is indeed true that we will use our new majority numbers to benefit Ghanaians by introducing private members’ bills to remove the e-Levy to reduce the suffering of the people.”
“It is also true that we will use our new majority to remove the betting tax and other nuisance taxes.”
The e-Levy, introduced by the NPP government, has been a source of public outcry since its implementation, with many citizens and businesses complaining about its adverse impact on transactions and economic activity.
Similarly, the recent introduction of a tax on betting and gaming has stirred controversy, particularly among the youth, who rely on these platforms for income.
Dr Forson further criticized the NPP government for creating a “high tax regime” that, according to him, has stifled businesses and pushed many Ghanaians to the brink of financial ruin.
He assured the business community and the general public that the NDC’s majority would work to protect their interests.
“Already, this NPP government has made Ghana a high tax regime, and that is affecting the survival of businesses and the people. We assure you that we will use our new majority to protect businesses and the people of Ghana, as we have always maintained,” he added.