Sammy Awuku, former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Akuapem North, has praised the government’s decision to eliminate the betting tax, calling it a much-needed step.
Mr. Awuku, who has consistently criticised the tax, even during the previous administration, argued that it had proven counterproductive and failed in many jurisdictions.
“I’m thrilled that the betting tax is being scrapped,” Awuku opined. “I’ve always maintained that it hasn’t worked anywhere it’s been tried, including during the NPP era.”
Mr. Awuku further explained that the tax was especially harmful to government-owned entities like the National Lottery Authority (NLA), which should be contributing to national revenue.
He also noted that the tax inadvertently boosted illegal betting operations.
“When the government taxes itself, illegal operators gain an advantage. Players are drawn to these underground markets because they avoid the 10% tax on winnings,” he said.
Mr Awuku also criticised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for inconsistencies in its stance, pointing out that the Finance Minister-designate had previously suggested banning betting and lottery activities entirely rather than just scrapping the tax.
“The NDC’s position has been unclear,” Awuku shared in an interview with Daily Guide Network (DGN).