No justification for COVID-Levy in 2025 – Yao Graham

Dr. Yao Graham, Coordinator of the Third World Network, has called for the abolition of the COVID-19 levy, arguing that it has outlived its purpose in a post-pandemic era.

The levy, introduced during the height of the pandemic by the previous government, continues to face criticism for its prolonged implementation.

Speaking on The Big Issue with Selorm Adonoo on Channel One TV, Dr. Graham asserted, “COVID-Levy, COVID-19 pandemic is long gone. So really, there’s no reason to maintain that. There’s no justification for a COVID-19 levy in 2025. Absolutely none. We’ve had malaria for a long time, but we don’t have a malaria tax in this country.”

Dr. Graham’s comments come in the wake of remarks by Finance Minister-Designate Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who hinted that a John Dramani Mahama-led administration would abolish taxes such as the E-Levy and Betting Tax in its first budget. Dr. Forson indicated that the revenue shortfall would be addressed through expenditure cuts.

However, Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North, has raised concerns about the potential introduction of new taxes to offset the removal of the E-Levy and Betting Tax.

Dr. Graham criticized the E-Levy for its disproportionate social impact, particularly on the poor, and strongly advocated for its removal. “E-Levy, in terms of its social impact, who pays? There’s a case to be made for its scrapping,” he stated.

He also opposed the retention of the Betting Tax, highlighting its detrimental effects on the youth. “Betting has become pervasive because young people don’t have work. A lot of time is being spent by young people betting. In other countries, taxes on betting have been used to discourage it, because betting is addictive and socially disruptive.”

In addition to calling for the abolition of these levies, Dr. Graham urged the government to introduce an Emission Tax to foster a green economy. He emphasized the need for tax reforms to create a fairer and more progressive system that lessens the burden on citizens while diversifying revenue sources.