A decision made in difficult times – Ishaq Ibrahim reflects on E-Levy

During a recent panel on Morning Starr, Ishaq Ibrahim Esq. spoke about the E-Levy. He is a senior lecturer at UPSA Law School and part of the NPP Communication Team.

Ibrahim admitted that the E-Levy was unpopular, even within the NPP. He stated, “E-levy was an unpopular task, even within the NPP.”

He argued that the levy was not necessary given Ghana's economic situation. “There was no need for this task because production had not taken place,” he explained.

Ibrahim emphasized that taxes are justified when linked to economic production. He acknowledged the challenges facing the country at that time.

“It’s when production takes place that you can say let me have a share,” he added. He suggested tough decisions are sometimes made during difficult times.

Reflecting on the policy, Ibrahim noted that the government might realize later that E-Levy wasn’t prudent.

“When you are in a difficult situation, sometimes you take measures that seem wrong later,” he said.

He also mentioned that the former Vice President promised to eliminate the E-Levy during his presidential bid.

“It was this reason why when he had the chance to be flagbearer, he said he would remove this task,” Ibrahim remarked.