"If NPP was still in power, we would be paying 'Pope levy & China levy': Waddle

Criss Waddle Criticizes Previous NPP Administration for Tax Burdens

Ghanaian musician Criss Waddle has criticized the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. He claims they would have imposed more taxes based on current global events.

Waddle joked that they might have created taxes from the ongoing tariff war between the US and other countries. He also referenced the recent election of a new Pope. His comments were a cheeky condemnation of the E-levy and betting tax that Ghanaians faced.

His post on social media sparked mixed reactions. Some found it funny, while NPP supporters deemed it distasteful. Waddle mocked potential new taxes like a “Pope levy” or “Trump levy,” suggesting exaggerated rates.

He criticized the E-Levy and betting tax introduced under President Akufo-Addo's leadership. The E-Levy charged electronic financial transactions, while the betting tax took a portion of online winnings. Many young people felt these policies targeted them unfairly.

In his post, he wrote about how Ghanaians might panic over global news leading to new taxes: "Like by now, fellow Ghanaians... we have to start paying Pope levy, Trump Levy and China Levy 8.90,000%. Herh we’ve suffered before."

Waddle’s post went viral, resonating with many users who found it relatable. However, some NPP supporters accused him of being partisan in his humor.

Recently, President Mahama's government passed a bill to remove both the E-Levy and betting tax. This decision was welcomed by many Ghanaians who had long complained about these financial burdens.

In another recent act of generosity, Criss Waddle gifted GH₵2,000 to TikTok creator Famela GH for promoting Ghanaian music. Famela is known for nostalgic performances of classic songs, including Waddle's hit "Bie Gya." This donation follows Nigerian artist Davido's $5,000 gift to a Ghanaian fan.