By Ashiadey Dotse
Finance Minister-Designate, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has reiterated his commitment to abolish the E-Levy, describing it as a tax that hinders Ghana’s progress toward a cashless economy.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Dr. Forson firmly stated that his stance on the E-Levy has not changed. He emphasized that the levy is not a standard form of taxation and pledged to remove it if given the opportunity.
“My position on the E-Levy is well known. I have written articles and championed opposition against it, and I still stand by that. The E-Levy is neither a direct tax nor an indirect tax. It is difficult to classify it as a tax,” he explained.
The E-Levy, introduced to tax electronic transactions, has faced widespread criticism since its implementation, with many citizens and stakeholders calling for its removal. It was designed to raise more money for the government by extracting larger tax contributions from Ghana’s informal sector.
But Ato Forson says if approved as Finance Minister, he will include the abolition of the E-Levy in the first budget he presents.
“As part of the 120-day agenda outlined by President Mahama, the E-Levy will be abolished. I stand by this commitment, and if given the chance, I will ensure that the levy is scrapped within the first 120 days of our administration,” Dr. Forson affirmed.
Addressing concerns about revenue loss, Dr. Forson indicated that he would assess the impact of the E-Levy and explore ways to replace it or adjust government spending to account for its removal.
“The options are clear; either remove the E-Levy and replace it or remove it without replacement and cut corresponding expenditure. As Finance Minister, I will take a holistic approach to ensure the best outcome for the country,” he concluded.
