Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has defended the decision to remove taxes on betting winnings, citing the economic hardship and lack of employment opportunities faced by many young people.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Roundtable, Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that betting isn’t the most desirable activity, but it has become a means of survival for many.
“We find that there were many youth who were driven into that activity because of hardship and the need for them to find something to do to make ends meet,” he stated.
He argued that taxing winnings would worsen the economic situation of bettors, who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“Do you create difficulty for them by taxing their meager winnings when you haven’t been able to give them employment?” he questioned.
Kwakye Ofosu clarified that betting companies will still be taxed like any other business, paying corporate income tax and other applicable levies.
“Government is taxing betting companies on their earnings like any other business, so they pay corporate income tax like any other business and are subject to any other taxes charged on businesses,” he assured.
The removal of the tax on winnings has been well-received by the public, reflecting the government’s responsiveness to the struggles of young people.
Baina Multimedia/ Khadijahtu Kubura Kailani
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