Mahama likely to assent to E-Levy repeal bill on Wednesday - Deputy Finance Minister

Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem announced that President John Dramani Mahama will likely sign the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) repeal bill by Wednesday, March 27.

On JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr. Ampem explained that Parliament has passed the bill. However, it has not yet been sent to the President for his signature.

He mentioned that Parliament is still in session. Therefore, he doubts the Clerk has transmitted the bill to the President. There are other bills being considered as well.

Mr. Ampem assured Ghanaians that once the President signs, the Finance Ministry will instruct the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to stop collecting the E-Levy.

He noted that if all goes well, the President will sign on Wednesday. The Finance Ministry will then act quickly to halt E-Levy collections.

Mr. Ampem added that the GRA is ready for this transition. Implementation will happen swiftly after President Mahama's approval.

He stated, “My discussions with the Commissioner General indicate they will comply immediately.”

The repeal of the E-Levy has been welcomed by many Ghanaians who opposed it strongly.

The levy was introduced in 2022 by the previous New Patriotic Party administration. It imposed a 1.5% tax on electronic transactions like mobile money transfers and online payments.

Regarding when the repeal will take effect, Mr. Ampem expressed confidence it would happen before March ends.

“I’m sure it will take effect before next week Friday,” he said.