Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has found himself at the center of controversy with his pledge to abolish the e-levy if he is voted into power.
Senior Vice President for IMANI-Africa, Kofi Bentil, says that Dr. Bawumia has always been against the introduction of the e-levy.
He believes that the promise to abolish the e-levy is an attempt to gain popularity and secure votes during the general elections.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Bentil argued that due to the constitutional authority of a vice president being that of an assistant to the president, it is impossible for the vice president to implement or reject policies. He mentioned that Dr. Bawumia had voiced opposition to taxes on electronic financial transactions and advocated for the exemption of e-levy on the first GH₵100 transaction, which was approved by the government.
Despite Dr. Bawumia’s previous opposition to the e-levy, it was introduced in 2022 after objections from the public and various civil society organizations. However, during his first major address to the nation after his election as the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia stated his intention to abolish the e-levy as President. He also announced plans to abolish other taxes and introduced a new tax regime focused on boosting businesses, particularly small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
The e-levy has sparked controversy and debate, and Dr. Bawumia’s pledge to abolish it has added fuel to the fire. As the elections approach, the future of the e-levy and Dr. Bawumia’s promises remain in the spotlight.
