Former Finance Minister Denies Ever Collecting 10% Betting Tax Amid Government’s Decision to Scrap It. We never implemented Betting Tax, he stated.
In a dramatic turn of events following the 2025 budget presentation, former Minister of Finance, Mohammed Amin Adams, has outrightly denied claims that the previous administration ever collected a 10% withholding tax on betting. His statement has added a new layer of controversy to the already heated discussion surrounding the tax’s implementation and subsequent abolition.
Government Moves to Abolish Betting Tax
On March 11, 2025, the current Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced during his budget presentation to Parliament that the government would abolish the contentious 10% betting tax. He argued that removing the tax, along with other levies, would ease financial burdens on Ghanaians, particularly the youth, and boost disposable income.
“Mr. Speaker, we will abolish the 10% withholding tax on betting,” Dr. Forson declared.
The minister further emphasized that scrapping the tax would stimulate business growth, encourage tax compliance, and reduce the financial strain on households.
Former Finance Minister Disputes Betting Tax Collection Claims
However, in a post-budget press interview, former Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adams categorically denied that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration had ever collected the betting tax. His statement has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the whereabouts of any funds that were reportedly generated from the tax.
“We never collected the betting tax,” he asserted.
Public Outcry Over Conflicting Statements
The conflicting statements between the former and current finance ministers have led to intense scrutiny and public discourse. If, as Dr. Forson claims, the tax was in place and set to be abolished, then the public seeks clarity on whether revenues were indeed collected and, if so, how they were utilized.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) reportedly began implementing the 10% tax on gambling platform winnings in August 2023, following its introduction by the Nana Akufo-Addo administration. Given this, many are now demanding transparency regarding the funds that should have been collected since its implementation.
Abolishing the ‘Nuisance Tax’ – A Political Fulfillment
Dr. Forson’s announcement to scrap the tax aligns with the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) campaign promise to eliminate what they termed a ‘nuisance tax.’ The decision to repeal the tax is seen as an effort to fulfill electoral pledges and alleviate economic hardships for the populace.
“The removal of these taxes will ease the burden on households and improve their disposable income. In addition, it will support business growth and improve tax compliance,” Dr. Forson reiterated.
What’s Next?
With the tax’s abolition now on the horizon, the pressing issue remains: If the tax was indeed collected under the previous administration, where did the money go? The public awaits further clarification from both past and present government officials to resolve this financial puzzle.
As the debate rages on, one thing is certain—Ghanaians are keenly watching how this controversy unfolds, with expectations of transparency and accountability from all parties involved.
SOURCE : DEW360.NET
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