The National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth wing has disclosed its intention to protest against the government over the newly effected 10% betting tax.
The introduction of the 10% betting tax forms part of the government’s efforts to raise revenue. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is hoping to rake in some GH¢400 million from the new gaming tax.
The new tax, which was effected on August 15, seeks to charge 10 percent tax on bet and lotto wins.
However, the NDC youth wing argue that this tax disproportionately affects young Ghanaians who are engaged in betting as a form of entertainment and, in some cases, livelihood.
A press statement by the National Youth Organiser of the NDC, George Opare Addo expressed the party’s dissatisfaction with the tax, stating, “Our determination to protect the funds young people secure through betting is unyielding. Through agitations, protests, advocacy, and civic engagements, we will ensure our voices are heard and demand that this corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government rescind its decision.”
The statement added “We intend to do the following; Picket at the Ministry of Finance and occupy government offices across the country. Start and scale up nationwide conventional and unconventional lawful agitations as a measure of the resistance. Instigate young people to confront officials of this government and demand an end to the corruption and insensitivity of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-failed brigade, and occupy Parliament and other government agencies.”
Read below the full story by the NDC youth wing: