Johnson Ayine, a member of the communications team for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Upper East Region, has expressed both approval and concern regarding the 2025 budget presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on March 11.
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Ayine stated that he would have preferred the government to include the 24-hour economy policy in the budget, believing it could have further stimulated economic activity. While acknowledging the government’s decision to abolish the E-levy, he noted that although it was politically a favorable choice, he personally disagreed with the move. He argued that electronic transactions, which have made life easier for many Ghanaians, could have continued contributing to government revenue through a small levy.
“They said they have abolished the E-levy, which is good. It’ll help all of us. Because of the kind of politics we practice as a country, politically, it’s a good decision, but honestly, in my opinion, it’s the wrong decision.”
He added that the NPP is not rushing to comment on the government’s policies yet, as it is still early in their tenure. He noted that the first year of any government often follows a similar pattern, and it would be prudent to wait until the following year to assess the situation more fully.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ayine referenced the challenges in implementing the betting tax, suggesting that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) eventually removed it to prevent enforcement. He implied that those who participate in betting or play lotteries would be the best judges of whether the tax was effectively implemented.
“As for the betting tax, those who bet or play lotteries would be the best judges of whether it was implemented or not.”
On the matter of disability support, the NPP official commended the government’s proposal to provide free tertiary education for disabled individuals, calling it a positive move. However, he questioned the funding sources for such initiatives, particularly in light of the removal of taxes like the E-levy and the betting tax. Despite his concerns, Mr. Ayine expressed willingness to pay such taxes if they were used to support important social initiatives, such as helping disabled individuals access education.
“Where are they going to get the money to do it? That’s the question. If I’m taxed through the E-levy or betting tax to enable a disabled person to attend tertiary education for free, I’m comfortable with it,” he said.
He emphasized that his frustration would only arise in cases of mismanagement or the misuse of public funds.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
