Do you want to turn the country into betting hub? - Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu fires Mahama over tax promise

The Member of Parliament for Suame constituency, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has raised concerns about the promise made by John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, to remove the tax on betting if he wins the 2024 elections.

He explained that the betting tax is intended to discourage the youth from focusing excessively on betting and to encourage them to engage in activities that will provide a sustainable income.

The former Majority Leader in Parliament questioned why Mahama, as a Christian, would promise to remove the betting tax, knowing that the Bible disapproves of such activities.

"As a Christian, I believe everyone should earn from their work. The Bible is against betting, that's my understanding. The government imposed the betting tax to discourage people from focusing on betting, similar to taxes on alcoholic drinks and cigarettes to limit their usage.

"If you remove the tax from alcoholic beverages, you are encouraging people to drink more. Is it Mahama's intention to turn the country into a betting hub by removing the tax? Betting is not a profession, so if you are a Christian and you intend to do this, it's questionable," the MP said in Twi on Angel FM and shared on EDHUB on X on August 12, 2024.

His comments follow Mahama's promise to abolish the betting tax if he wins the 2024 elections, aiming to help the youth earn income.

While the promise has been welcomed by some youth, certain NPP members believe it will encourage more involvement in betting.

Watch the video below:

"Government taxes on alcohol and cigarettes are meant to discourage people from using these products. Is it former President John Mahama's intention to turn the country into a betting hub? I will inform our pastor to advise him on the removal of the betting tax." - MP for Suame… pic.twitter.com/SQoTVwtzbT

— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) August 13, 2024