Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister-designate, has reaffirmed his commitment to abolishing the Electronic Levy (E-levy) introduced by the previous Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration.
This pledge aligns with President John Mahama’s campaign promise to scrap the E-levy, which has been widely criticized by Ghanaians for being a financial burden.
Despite opposition from stakeholders like the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), who argue that the E-levy generates revenue for the country, Dr. Ato Forson remains resolute in his stance.
During his vetting on Monday, January 13, 2025, he emphasized that the E-levy has failed to achieve its intended goals and should be abolished.
Dr. Ato Forson also expressed his intention to abolish the betting tax in his first budget as Finance Minister, citing its ineffectiveness.
His commitment to removing these taxes aims to alleviate the financial strain on Ghanaians and promote economic growth.
He said, “My position on the E-levy is well known and I do not intend to run from it. I have written articles against the e-levy, I championed the position against the e-levy and I still stand by it. The e-levy is neither a direct tax, an indirect tax, or an excise tax. I insist that the betting tax must be abolished and as Finance Minister, I will abolish it in my first budget because it has failed”.
