By Ashiadey Dotse
Former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and member of parliament for Akuapem North, Sammy Awuku, has praised the government’s decision to remove the betting tax. Awuku, a long-time critic of the tax, said it was a bad policy that had not worked in other countries.
Speaking to the Daily Guide Network (DGN), Awuku expressed his joy over the decision. “I’m excited that the betting tax is going to be scrapped,” he said. “I have been consistent about this, even during my party’s time in government. Such taxes have failed in many places they’ve been introduced.”
Awuku explained that the tax hurt government institutions like the NLA. “The NLA is owned by the government and contributes to the national economy. But this tax created problems because it pushed people towards illegal betting operators,” he said.
He added that illegal operators became more appealing to players because they did not deduct taxes. “If you play with the government, 10% of your winnings is taxed. But with illegal operators, you get all your money. This made the tax counterproductive,” he stated.
Awuku also criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government for being inconsistent. He highlighted earlier comments by the Finance Minister-designate, who suggested that betting and lottery activities should be banned entirely.
“The NDC position has been confusing. First, they wanted to scrap the tax, then they spoke about banning betting and lottery altogether. It’s unclear what they want to achieve,” Awuku stated.
Awuku’s comments come as many in the betting industry welcome the government’s decision to scrap the tax, which they believe will help revive the sector.
