Ato Forson Vows to Abolish Betting Tax if Confirmed as Finance Minister
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana’s Finance Minister-designate, has declared his intention to abolish the contentious betting tax should he be confirmed as Minister.
The betting tax, which came into effect in 2024, has faced widespread backlash from stakeholders, including youth groups, betting companies, and economic analysts.
Speaking during his vetting by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Monday, January 13, 2025, Dr. Forson argued that the tax, introduced to regulate the growing betting industry and generate revenue, has proven ineffective and counterproductive.
“As the Finance Minister, my first mandate will be to abolish the betting tax,“ Dr. Forson stated emphatically, adding that the levy has placed undue pressure on an already financially strained youth population.
Dr. Forson’s pledge has already sparked debate among citizens, with some applauding the proposal as a step in the right direction and others calling for alternative measures to address the concerns associated with the betting industry.
If confirmed as Finance Minister, Dr. Forson’s policy direction will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the country’s fiscal landscape amidst growing economic challenges.
