The Institute of Community Sustainability has firmly opposed President John Dramani Mahama’s potential removal of the betting tax.

The Institute of Community Sustainability has urged President Mahama to reconsider the decision to abolish the betting tax, citing potential negative impacts on Ghana’s youth. This statement comes in light of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s pledge to remove both the betting tax and the E-levy in his first budget, once approved. During his appearance before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, Dr. Forson argued that the current betting tax has not achieved its intended goals and should be eliminated.

Dr. Forson declared, “I insist that the betting tax must be abolished, and as Finance Minister, I will remove it in my first budget because it has failed.”

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo, the Institute of Community Sustainability expressed concerns, stating, “In a country with a population of 32 million, we face significant challenges in providing adequate mental health support, with only four mental health centers and no sports psychologists. Encouraging betting among our youth would worsen these issues.”

The Institute of Community Sustainability recommended that instead of abolishing the betting tax, the government should maintain or increase it to discourage youth betting. The revenue from this tax could be used to establish psychiatric hospitals in every region, offering much-needed mental health services.

The statement emphasized that Ghana’s youth deserve better than the false promise of quick wealth through betting, highlighting the need for sustainable job opportunities and support. The institute warned that it would take to the streets to protest the removal of the betting tax if necessary, urging President Mahama to prioritize the well-being and future of the youth.