President John Dramani Mahama officially assented to a set of amended bills on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, marking a significant milestone in his administration’s commitment to tax reform.
On March 13, 2025, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented some bills to Parliament aimed at amending and abolishing various taxes and levies that had been a source of public concern. These included:
– Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025
– Emissions Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025
– Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025
– Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment (Amendment) Bill, 2025, among others.
Background on the Abolished Taxes
The Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), introduced in 2022, imposed a 1% charge on electronic transactions, including mobile money transfers and online payments.
However, it faced widespread public opposition due to its impact on disposable incomes and financial inclusion.
Similarly, the Betting Tax, which levied a 10% charge on gross winnings from gambling activities, was met with strong resistance from stakeholders in the gaming industry, who argued it stifled the sector’s growth.
Fulfilling an Electoral Promise
During his 2024 presidential campaign, John Dramani Mahama, then-flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), pledged to abolish these taxes within his first 120 days in office if elected.
His assent to these bills now delivers on that promise, reinforcing the NDC’s commitment to alleviating financial burdens on Ghanaians and fostering economic growth.
The signing ceremony took place at Jubilee House, the Office of the President, in the presence of key government officials, lawmakers, and stakeholders.