The youth wing of the NDC has served notice of its intention to picket government offices and demand accountability from officials over the newly introduced 10% tax on bets and lottery winnings.
The tax, whose effective implementation date was Tuesday, August 15, 2023, is expected to increase domestic revenue by over GHC 1 billion, according to government sources.
However, in a statement on Wednesday, the NDC asked the government to immediately abolish the tax.
The NDC youth stated that they would undertake several actions to drive home the need to withdraw the tax.
“In the face of the unjust 10% tax on bet wins, we, the young people of Ghana and the NDC youth, declare a resolute series of actions to resist this burdensome and insensitive policy; through agitations, protests, advocacy, and civic engagements, we would ensure our voices are heard and demand this corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government rescind its decision.”
They argued that the tax was burdensome and was being imposed to compensate for the corruption and mismanagement under the ruling government.
In particular, the party declared that “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.”
Last week, the Concerned Bettors of Ghana told authorities that the tax would not favour the teeming youth who are into betting as a source of living.
