Covid-19 levy: Even ‘wicked Nebuchadnezzar’ won’t do this — Sammy Gyamfi slams Akufo-Addo for still taking tax

Despite COVID-19 not being a pandemic anymore, the government's decision to continue to collect the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy has sparked controversy and criticism from various quarters, including political figures and business associations.

The levy, which was introduced as a temporary measure to generate revenue and address fiscal challenges worsened by the pandemic, has not been abolished.

Critics argue that payment of the levy continue to burden already-strained households and enterprises.

President Akufo-Addo, while acknowledging the unpopularity of the 1% tax, defended the government's stance, referencing the ongoing need to bridge fiscal gaps and manage expenditure challenges.

In an address in May 2023, he urged citizens to endure the levy, emphasizing its role in supporting essential government functions amid post-pandemic recovery efforts.

“The COVID Health Recovery Levy that was introduced to help fill some of the expenditure holes might not be the most popular tax, but I entreat all of you to bear with us,” the President stated.

However, the government's persistence with the levy has faced staunch opposition, with voices like the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana advocating for its removal to alleviate the financial strain on businesses.

Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized President Akufo-Addo's decision to maintain the levy.

During an interview on Oyerepa TV's 'Breakfast Show', Gyamfi rebuked the government.

He said, "We’ve paid the COVID levy to the extent that we have passed the target. We’re in 2024 and we’re still paying COVID-19 levy.

“Show me one country in the world that still charges COVID-19 levy… Have you ever seen a president who has decided to take advantage of a pandemic by taxing his people?

“Did Nebuchadnezzar, the wicked King even do that?"

Listen to him in the video below;