As Ghanaians await the presentation of the Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament today, the Upper East Regional Communications Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ayinbisa, has called on the government to abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, arguing that it has outlived its purpose.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Ayinbisa said the 1% levy, which was introduced under the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy Act, 2021, to fund COVID-19-related activities and support economic recovery, has now become an unnecessary financial burden on citizens.
The levy, imposed by the previous NPP government during the height of the pandemic, was seen as a necessary intervention to help the country navigate unprecedented health and economic challenges. However, Mr. Ayinbisa argued that its continued collection years after the crisis undermines economic relief efforts, especially as many Ghanaians face rising living costs.
“There is this Covid-19 levy that is in the records. I expect the Finance Minister to expunge it so that Ghanaians will have some small leverage to rely on,” Mr. Ayinbisa stated
His comments come at a time when economic watchers and stakeholders have urged the government to use the Mid-Year Budget Review to announce bold measures aimed at easing the financial burden on citizens, boosting investor confidence, and driving growth.
Mr. Ayinbisa’s call aligns with a growing public sentiment that taxes introduced to address temporary challenges should not become permanent fixtures on the national tax calendar.
A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga
